Weight Loss Medications: Split Opinions, High Interest, and Potential Risks

A survey conducted by the Business Group on Health (BGH) revealed that large US employers are divided on whether to cover GLP-1 drugs, which are used for weight loss. While 46% of respondents already cover these drugs, 3% plan to add coverage in 2024 and 13% are considering it for the following year. In comparison, 92% already cover GLP-1 drugs for diabetes. The inclusion of GLP-1 coverage has been a contentious issue due to high costs, with some employers choosing to drop coverage. Concerns about pharmacy benefit costs and the rising cost of new medications, including cell and gene therapies, were also highlighted in the survey.