A Nation Split on Weight-Loss Medications
Once primarily used to treat diabetes, GLP-1 receptor agonists—a class of weight-loss drugs including Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro—have skyrocketed in popularity since gaining FDA approval for obesity treatment in 2021. Widely discussed by doctors, promoted by celebrities, and debated on social media, these medications have transformed weight-loss treatment, offering new hope to millions struggling with obesity.
However, a recent poll conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research reveals a complicated public perception: while many Americans support these medications for adults with obesity, skepticism remains high when it comes to teenagers and individuals using them purely for cosmetic weight loss.
Where Americans Stand on GLP-1 Drugs
According to the poll:
- Adults with obesity: About half of Americans see these medications as beneficial, while only 2 in 10 view them negatively.
- Teenagers with obesity: The nation is deeply divided—roughly one-third of respondents see it as a good option, another third see it as bad, and the remaining third are neutral.
- Non-obese adults: 6 in 10 Americans believe it’s a bad idea to use these drugs for weight loss unless medically necessary.
- Non-obese teens: Nearly 7 in 10 oppose their use in adolescents who are not classified as obese.
Interestingly, younger adults are slightly more accepting of teenagers using weight-loss medications, while older Americans overwhelmingly disapprove—with 8 in 10 Americans over 45 opposing GLP-1 use in non-obese teens.
The Science and the Stigma
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 100 million U.S. adults are living with obesity, with over 22 million classified as severely obese (BMI 40+). The condition isn’t just about weight—it’s a chronic disease influenced by genetics, environment, and socioeconomics, increasing risks for diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer.
Yet, despite medical experts recognizing obesity as a disease, weight loss remains highly stigmatized. Patients who turn to medication for help often face judgment, says Dr. Cate Varney, an obesity specialist at UVA Health.
“It’s like telling someone to hammer a nail into wood but giving one person a hammer and the other a chopstick,” she explains. “These medications are leveling the playing field.”
Personal Stories: Life-Changing Results
For Anjanette Ewen, GLP-1 therapy was about more than just weight loss—it saved her life. The 50-year-old from Florida lost 67 pounds on Mounjaro, and in doing so, discovered a cancerous lump in her breast.
“I’ve been on a weight-loss journey forever, and nothing worked,” Ewen shared, explaining how polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) caused her weight to fluctuate dramatically. Within eight months, she went from 150 to 220 pounds, a frustrating cycle she couldn’t control.
For her and many others, GLP-1 drugs are not just about appearance but gaining control over a condition that traditional methods couldn’t manage.
Weight-Loss Medications for Teens: A Heated Debate
With 20% of U.S. children classified as obese, the American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends GLP-1 medications for some adolescents aged 12 and older. Experts argue that early intervention can prevent lifelong struggles with obesity-related illnesses.
“The younger patients actually respond beautifully to these medications,” says Dr. Gitanjali Srivastava, medical director of obesity medicine at Vanderbilt University. “Obesity in childhood increases the risk of severe obesity in adulthood, making treatment even more difficult later in life.”
However, many Americans worry about putting teenagers on long-term medication, citing concerns about unknown long-term effects and lifestyle dependency.
Insurance Coverage: A Major Hurdle
Despite their proven effectiveness, GLP-1 drugs remain out of reach for many due to high costs. Without insurance, a monthly prescription can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars.
The AP-NORC poll found that:
- Half of Americans support federal programs like Medicare and Medicaid covering weight-loss drugs for people with obesity.
- Only 2 in 10 oppose public insurance coverage for these medications.
- A quarter of respondents remain neutral on the issue.
Currently, Medicare does not cover GLP-1 drugs for obesity, while Medicaid coverage varies by state. Some large employers are adding coverage, while others are scaling back, citing high costs.
The Future of Weight-Loss Drugs in America
With demand surging and obesity rates at historic highs, GLP-1 drugs are reshaping the landscape of weight management. However, the debate surrounding their use—especially in teenagers and non-obese individuals—shows that society is still grappling with what it means to medically treat obesity.
As science advances, public perception may continue to evolve, but one thing remains clear: weight-loss drugs are no longer just a niche treatment—they’re at the center of America’s health conversation.