Medications to Treat Obesity
The Development of Obesity Medication
Anti-obesity interventions have progressed significantly over the past decade.
Research from randomized controlled trials showed that a diabetes medication (approved for the treatment of diabetes in 2005) was also highly effective at reducing appetite and food intake. Pharmaceutical companies quickly moved to alter this medication and allow it to target obesity specifically.
Thus, Glucagon-Like Peptides-1, or GLP-1's, were born.
These medications increase fullness, slow stomach emptying, and improve blood sugar control, with added benefits for heart and kidney health.
Millions of Black and Hispanic adults who are overweight or obese and qualify for these medications, but are unable to afford this life-changing treatment option.
Using Obesity Medications in Treatment
What are Obesity Medications?
Anti-obesity medications are prescription drugs designed to help people lose weight by targeting appetite, metabolism, or how the body processes food. These medications are typically used alongside nutrition, movement, and behavioral support.
These medications can be effective, with newer options helping people lose 10–20% of body weight on average in clinical trials.
Common Types of Obesity Medication
Cost Barriers in the Black Community
Disparities in Obesity Care & Treatment Access
In addition to the challenges with insurance coverage of anti-obesity medications (AOMs), there may be other barriers to the use of semaglutide, especially for Black women.
In this population, various factors related to Black women's Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) are affected.
Recent analysis suggests that among the semaglutide‐eligible population of adults in the US, Black and Hispanic adults were more likely to be:
- Uninsured
- Lack access to care
- Have low family income or low educational attainment
When compared to White adults, prohibiting them from getting treatment using the anti-obesity drugs.
Additionally, Black women also have differing experiences with in treatment with their Healthcare Providers; and Healthcare Provider‐related factors that likely contribute to the racial and ethnic disparities mentioned above in the prescription of the anti-obesity medication for the Black population.
Costs of Obesity Medications
Black communities, along with other marginalized communities, are being systemically "Priced out" of access to these medications.
Current Estimated GLP-1 Costs:
Out-of-Pocket Cost:
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Many of these medications cost $1,000–$1,500 / per month without insurance.
Costs using Insurance:
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Even if patients can use insurance, copays, deductibles, and restrictions can make them unaffordable.
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Some medications have monthly copays of $45 with insurance coverage
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Medicare often DOES NOT cover weight-loss medications, & Medicaid coverage varies by state
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