The Disruptive Cost of New Weight-Loss Drugs: A Warning from Blackstone Exec

The rising cost of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, is causing concern among employers, with some fearing it could put them out of business. The drugs have seen a 600% increase in spending across Blackstone's portfolio in the last four years. While effective, these drugs are expensive, with a month's supply costing around $1,000 or more. As more than 40% of Americans are considered to have obesity, the costs to employers and state governments could become overwhelming. Panelists at a healthcare conference agreed that if employers choose to cover the drugs, it should be part of a broader support program that includes nutrition and activity habits and support for side effects.