More people now use GLP-1s for weight loss than for other health conditions, research finds

October 22, 2026 / 5:58 PM EDT / CBS News

More Americans are now taking GLP-1 drugs to shed some pounds than to treat diabetes and other health conditions for which the medications were originally prescribed, new research shows.

Roughly 54% of people taking semaglutide medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy do so to lose weight, overtaking the share of people who use them for other medical reasons, according to EY-Parthenon.

Meanwhile, as usage of GLP-1 drugs for weight management surpasses other medical uses, more consumers are changing how they eat and shop, the strategy consulting firm found in a survey of nearly 15,000 people, including 3,602 current or former GLP-1 users.

For example, people taking the drugs typically consume fewer unhealthy foods and less alcohol in favor of healthier products. Sixty-three percent of GLP-1 users say they have reduced their consumption of sweet snacks, while 57% say they eat fewer salty snacks, according to EY-Parthenon's research.

Food makers, grocery chains and other retailers are adapting to those changes in consumer habits.

"We are finding that manufacturers and retailers are making more room on store shelves for GLP-1-diet-specific foods, or protein-enhanced items, and smaller portion sizes," Don Johnson, a principal…

Original source: https://www.cbsnews.com/moneywatch/