The demand for weight loss drugs in the U.S. is on the rise, with many individuals seeking treatments like GLP-1s for managing conditions like obesity and Type 2 diabetes. However, a recent survey conducted by Evercore ISI has shed light on the concerning relationship between annual income and the willingness to pay for these medications. According to the survey, individuals with higher annual incomes are more willing to pay out of pocket for GLP-1 treatments compared to those with lower incomes. Specifically, nearly 60% of participants earning over $250,000 per year stated that they would pay more than $300 per month for a GLP-1, while only 4% of those earning less than $75,000 were willing to do the same.
The cost of GLP-1s can be significant, with monthly prices ranging from $900 to $1,350 before insurance and rebates. While both Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly offer savings programs to reduce out-of-pocket costs, the survey revealed that many individuals are still paying a considerable amount for their treatments. Interestingly, the maximum price that participants were willing to pay out of pocket per month was aligned with what they actually paid for the medication. Furthermore, the survey highlighted that individuals who used to take or were considering taking a GLP-1 had lower thresholds for the maximum price they were willing to pay compared to current users.
Another key finding of the survey was related to patient persistence with GLP-1 treatments. While nearly half of current users expressed their intention to stay on the drugs permanently, only 10% of those considering treatment shared the same sentiment. Among those who stopped taking a GLP-1, cost, achieving weight loss goals, and experiencing side effects were common reasons for discontinuation. Surprisingly, more than 80% of individuals who ceased treatment did so within 12 months, raising concerns among insurers about premature stoppage and its implications.
The survey also explored how taking GLP-1s influenced participants’ eating and drinking habits. A majority of respondents reported eating less while on the medications, regardless of whether they had pre-existing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. This response is consistent with the mechanism of GLP-1s, which work by suppressing appetite and regulating blood sugar. Additionally, more than half of participants without pre-existing conditions stated that they consumed less alcohol while on GLP-1s, with some even abstaining from drinking entirely. Notably, individuals with pre-existing conditions were more likely to abstain from alcohol while on treatment, highlighting a potential link between GLP-1s and alcohol consumption behaviors.
The survey findings underscore the complex interplay between income, willingness to pay, treatment persistence, and lifestyle changes associated with GLP-1 medications. As the demand for weight loss drugs continues to grow, it is crucial to address the affordability and accessibility of these treatments, especially for individuals with lower incomes. Moreover, further research is needed to better understand the long-term effects of GLP-1s on weight management and health outcomes, as well as their impact on behavior and habits. By exploring these interconnected factors, healthcare providers and policymakers can work towards optimizing the use of GLP-1s for individuals seeking effective solutions for obesity and diabetes management.