GLP-1s

A new study from the Department of Veteran Affairs, published in Nature Medicine, found that GLP-1 weight loss drugs including Mounjaro, Ozempic, Wegovy and Zepbound, may offer benefits beyond weight loss — the latest in a growing body of research…

Regardless of adherence to weekly Wegovy (semaglutide) injections, adults with obesity who received a higher dose of the medication lost an average of 18.7% of their body weight. 

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist drugs may reduce the risk of surgical complications in diabetic patients, according to a large new study. 

Insurers and self-funded employers are making significant changes to their GLP-1 drug coverage policies in 2025, reflecting the financial and operational challenges posed by the high-cost medications. 

On Dec. 23, the FDA approved Hikma Pharmaceuticals' liraglutide injection, a generic version of Novo Nordisk's Victoza. 

In early October, the FDA announced that the two-year shortages of Mounjaro and Zepbound were resolved. After pushback from compounding pharmacies, the agency reaffirmed the decision on Dec. 19. 

As weight loss medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro soar in popularity, counterfeit and otherwise unapproved versions of these drugs are making their way into the market, putting patients at risk. 

The prices for some GLP-1s have dropped significantly in recent years for individuals covered by Medicare and commercial insurance, according to a November report from HHS.

A preprint study confirmed an association between Ozempic's active ingredient and an increased — but overall low — risk of vision loss. 

Barriers to accessing GLP-1 medications are beginning to break down as drug manufacturers, insurers, and lawmakers look to expand availability, lower costs, and address continued high demand.