"Survey Reveals High Costs Driving Demand for Weight-Loss Drugs"
A recent survey by Evercore ISI reveals that demand for weight loss drugs, particularly GLP-1s, is high in the U.S. despite limited insurance coverage and monthly costs ranging from $900 to $1,350. The survey indicates that willingness to pay for these drugs is strongly correlated with annual income, with higher-income individuals willing to pay more out of pocket. Concerns about equity in access to these drugs arise due to disparities in out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, the survey highlights that many patients stop taking the drugs prematurely due to cost or achieving weight loss goals, but a significant portion intend to stay on the drugs permanently. Furthermore, the drugs have been observed to affect eating and drinking habits, with most respondents reporting eating less and drinking less alcohol while on the medication.