Reuters World News A checkup on weight-loss drugs
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Dec 21, 2024 Michelle Gershberg, Global Health Editor at Reuters, dives into the rapidly evolving world of weight-loss drugs, once confined to Hollywood, now a global sensation. She discusses the surge in popularity of semaglutide and trisepatide, their transition from diabetes drugs to weight loss staples, and the pressing issue of affordability. Gershberg also sheds light on the disparities in insurance coverage and the recent Biden administration policies on weight-loss medication access. The conversation unpacks both the promise and controversies surrounding these treatments.
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Weight-Loss Drugs: Not a Silver Bullet
- Weight-loss drugs were initially hailed as a potential solution to the obesity epidemic.
- However, they are not a silver bullet due to high costs and discontinuation rates.
Main Weight-Loss Drugs
- Semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Wegovy) are the two main weight-loss drugs.
- Both are similar and treat diabetes and weight loss.
Cost and Accessibility of Weight-Loss Drugs
- The high cost of these drugs currently limits access for many.
- Increased competition and new drugs may eventually lower prices, making them more accessible.