The utilization of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Munjaro may see a significant rise due to a recent agreement in which former President Donald Trump committed to reducing the prices of these sought-after weight-loss drugs. Interestingly, adoption of these medications is already unevenly distributed across the United States, with some states experiencing a more pronounced uptick than others.
A report from Purple Labs, a health analytics firm in Pennsylvania, analyzed insurance claims data for the year 2024. This data presents an estimated count of prescriptions for weight loss and diabetes medications by state. It’s worth noting that these records stem from commercial and government insurance claims and do not reflect those who paid out of pocket, utilized telehealth services, requested a combined version, or lacked insurance. Consequently, the real figures are presumed to be considerably higher.
The report has highlighted certain states where 15% or more of the population has been prescribed GLP-1 for managing weight or diabetes:
- West Virginia – 24%
- Kentucky – 22%
- Louisiana – 20%
- Oklahoma – 20%
- Alabama – 19%
- Mississippi – 19%
- North Dakota – 18%
- Alaska – 17%
- Arkansas – 17%
- Pennsylvania – 17%
- Iowa – 16.5%
- Michigan – 16%
- Ohio – 14.5%
- Georgia – 15%
- Kansas – 15%
- Tennessee – 15%
- Texas – 15%
It appears that the most substantial GLP-1 usage is concentrated in Southern, Midwestern, and Appalachian regions, likely linked to higher obesity and diabetes prevalence. In contrast, the report points out states with the lowest prescription rates, primarily located along the coasts and in the western parts of the country, with Hawaii recording the least overall prescriptions.
- Florida – 10%
- Maryland – 10%
- Wisconsin – 10%
- Washington – 9%
- California – 9.5%
- Nevada – 8%
- Oregon – 8%
- Arizona – 8%
- Colorado – 8%
- Utah – 8%
- Rhode Island – 7.5%
- Hawaii – 5%
Dr. Brett Osborne, a neurologist and longevity expert based in Florida, often prescribes GLP-1 drugs in microdoses to his patients, not only for diabetes management but increasingly for heart health as well. “These medications have typically been associated with type 2 diabetes treatment, but I believe we’re on the cusp of seeing them being used more for individuals who are overweight, even if they aren’t diabetic,” he remarked, adding that there is, however, a notable overlap between these health issues.
He predicts that GLP-1s may one day be employed to address various conditions like vascular disease, reduce alcohol dependency, and even aid in cancer treatment during chemotherapy. “The landscape of prescribing is shifting quickly, hence it’s essential to remain thoughtful in our judgments,” he cautioned, while still affirming that certain areas, particularly Kentucky and West Virginia, where obesity and diabetes are prevalent, are seeing an increase in prescriptions.
Obesity rates by state
According to a recent State of Obesity report from the Trust for America’s Health, the states with the highest adult obesity rates are largely situated in the South or Midwest. Notably, in 9 out of 10 of these states, a minimum of 15% of the population has been prescribed GLP-1 medications, as per insurance claims data.
- West Virginia – 41.4%
- Mississippi – 40.4%
- Louisiana – 39.2%
- Alabama – 38.7%
- Arkansas – 38.4%
- Oklahoma – 37.9%
- Kentucky – 37.7%
- Tennessee – 37.2%
- Indiana – 36.9%
- Texas – 36.8%
Overall, 19 states are now reporting adult obesity rates of 35% or higher, a decrease from 23 states the year before. Interestingly, one state has managed to maintain an adult obesity rate below 25%, making it unique in this regard.
- District of Columbia – 25.5%
- Colorado – 25%
- Hawaii – 27%
- Massachusetts – 27%
- California – 27.6%
- Florida – 28%
- New Jersey – 28.2%
- Washington – 28.8%
- Vermont – 29%
- New York – 29.1%
“Structural barriers to healthy eating and physical activity demand ongoing policy focus and investment,” remarked Dr. J. Nadine Gracia, president and CEO of Trust for America’s Health. She emphasized that it’s crucial for governments to invest in proven programs that promote nutrition and fitness to benefit all communities.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the manufacturer of GLP-1 for further comments.
