New Survey Reveals 1 in 8 U.S. Adults Have Used Ozempic or Similar GLP-1 Medications

A 2024 KFF survey reveals 1 in 8 U.S. adults have used GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic or Wegovy, highlighting a massive shift in weight loss and diabetes treatment.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 3, 2026, 11:20 AM EST

Source: People

The Rapid Adoption of GLP-1 Medications

The survey results underscore the meteoric rise of drugs originally designed to treat type 2 diabetes, which are now widely utilized for chronic weight management. Of the 12% of adults who have used these medications, about half (6% of the total population) are currently taking them. The data suggests that while these drugs were initially niche treatments, they have rapidly transitioned into a mainstream pharmaceutical phenomenon, fueled by high demand and significant social media visibility.

Strategic Demographics and Medical Necessity

The KFF survey highlights a clear correlation between the use of these drugs and existing health conditions. Usage is highest among adults who have been diagnosed with diabetes (43%), heart disease (25%), or who are living with obesity or being overweight (15%). TRANSFORMATIVE ANALYSIS: In the United States and Canada, the pharmaceutical industry is seeing a fundamental shift in how metabolic health is managed. By moving away from "willpower-based" weight loss models toward medical interventions, these drugs are reshaping the healthcare landscape and putting immense pressure on insurance providers to define what constitutes "essential" care versus "cosmetic" treatment.

Barriers to Access: Cost and Coverage

Despite the high adoption rates, the survey points to significant financial barriers for many Americans. Approximately half of the users reported that their insurance covered the cost of the medication, but even with coverage, many faced high out-of-pocket expenses. Among those without insurance coverage, the cost often exceeds $1,000 per month. Paraphrasing the source, the report indicates that while the popularity of Ozempic and Wegovy is soaring, the "cost-sharing" burden remains a primary reason for patients discontinuing the treatment or seeking unauthorized, cheaper alternatives.