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GLP-1 Drug Use Surges to 11% of U.S. Adults: What to Know

Infographic showing U.S. adult GLP-1 drug use rising from 3% in 2024 to 11% in 2026 (about 4x), 15% of adults reporting having ever used a GLP-1 drug, and the U.S. adult obesity rate declining from 39.9% in 2022 to 36.4% in 2026 (self-reported Gallup estimate)

Last updated: September 30, 2026

[Key Takeaways]

  • Current GLP-1 drug use for weight loss among U.S. adults reached 11% in 2026, up from 3% in 2024; a broader 15% report having used a GLP-1 medication for weight loss at some point (a figure that includes current users).
  • Over roughly the same period, the U.S. adult obesity rate declined from a 2022 peak of 39.9% to 36.4% in 2026 (self-reported Gallup estimate).
  • GLP-1 medications work by mimicking a natural gut hormone that regulates appetite and blood sugar.
  • Common side effects involve the digestive system, while rarer but serious risks include pancreatitis and gallbladder problems.
  • Certain medical histories, including a personal or family history of specific thyroid cancers, may rule out GLP-1 use, so a conversation with a healthcare provider is an essential first step.
This article is intended for general informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a licensed healthcare professional regarding your own health situation.

It is written in the hope that it can be of even a little help to many readers.

Overview

GLP-1 receptor agonists, the class of medications that includes semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy) and other similar drugs, have moved from a niche diabetes treatment to a mainstream part of American health care conversations in a remarkably short time. National survey data released in mid-2026 show that use of these medications has nearly quadrupled in two years, coinciding with a measurable decline in the national adult obesity rate. This article explains how GLP-1 drugs work, why their use has grown so quickly, what side effects to expect, who should approach them with caution, what tends to happen after stopping treatment, and how nutrition may support the body during use.

What Are GLP-1 Drugs and How Do They Work?

GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medications originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes that have since been approved for chronic weight management as well. Semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy, and related compounds such as tirzepatide, work by imitating a hormone the body already produces in response to eating.

The Science Behind Appetite and Blood Sugar Regulation

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a hormone released by the gut after meals. It signals the pancreas to release insulin, slows the rate at which the stomach empties, and acts on appetite-regulating centers in the brain to promote a feeling of fullness. GLP-1 receptor agonist medications amplify and prolong this natural signaling pathway, which is associated with reduced food intake and improved blood sugar control in people who use them.[1]

[1] Moiz et al., Am J Med (2025)

Wegovy vs. Ozempic vs. Other GLP-1 Medications

Ozempic and Wegovy both contain the same active ingredient, semaglutide, but they are approved by the FDA for different purposes: Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes management, while Wegovy is approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or who are overweight with a related health condition.[1] Other GLP-1 or dual GLP-1/GIP medications, such as tirzepatide (marketed as Mounjaro for diabetes and Zepbound for weight management), work through a similar but not identical mechanism.[2] No single brand within this drug class has been shown to be categorically superior to the others for all patients; effectiveness and tolerability can vary by individual.

[1] FDA prescribing information, Wegovy (2025)
[2] FDA prescribing information, Mounjaro (2026)

Why GLP-1 Drug Use Has Surged in the U.S.

The Numbers: How Many Americans Are Taking These Drugs

A Gallup survey released in July 2026 found that 11% of U.S. adults report currently taking a GLP-1 drug for weight loss, up sharply from 3% in 2024.[1] A broader 15% of adults report having used a GLP-1 medication for weight loss at some point, a figure that includes current users rather than representing a separate group of past users. Over a similar period, self-reported obesity estimates from the same Gallup survey show the adult obesity rate declining from a 2022 peak of 39.9% to 36.4% in 2026.[1] These self-reported figures differ from the CDC's National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), which is based on measured rather than self-reported height and weight and placed the adult obesity rate at 40.3% for August 2021-August 2023, reflecting differences in survey methodology rather than a direct contradiction.[2] Current use also varies by age group, with 22% of adults ages 50-64 reporting current use compared with 9% of adults age 65 and older, though these figures reflect survey findings rather than an indication that any single age group is being specifically targeted for treatment.[1]

[1] Gallup, "In U.S., GLP-1 Usage Reaches New High" (2026)
[2] Emmerich et al., NCHS Data Brief No. 508 (2024)

What's Driving the Increase

Several factors have been cited in connection with the rapid rise in use, including expanded insurance coverage for GLP-1 medications by some employers and health plans, greater public awareness following extensive media coverage, and growing physician familiarity with prescribing these drugs for both diabetes and weight management.[1] Reporting on these trends generally attributes the increase to a combination of accessibility and awareness rather than any single cause.

[1] Gallup, "In U.S., GLP-1 Usage Reaches New High" (2026)

Common Side Effects to Expect

Mild and Common Side Effects

The most frequently reported side effects of GLP-1 medications involve the digestive system. These commonly include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort, particularly during the initial dose-escalation period.[1] These effects are often described as dose-related and may lessen over time as the body adjusts, though some individuals discontinue treatment because of persistent gastrointestinal symptoms.

[1] Karrar et al., Cureus (2023)

Serious Side Effects and Warning Signs

GLP-1 medications carry a labeled risk of gallbladder problems, such as gallstones; multiple meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials have found a statistically significant increase in this risk among users of this drug class.[1] Acute pancreatitis and, in some cases, worsening of diabetic retinopathy in people with type 2 diabetes are also listed as potential risks on FDA labeling; the pancreatitis warning is based primarily on post-marketing safety signals, and randomized-trial evidence on pancreatitis risk specifically has been mixed — some meta-analyses have found no statistically significant increase, while a 2025 systematic review reported a significantly elevated risk — so this particular risk continues to be actively studied rather than considered firmly established.[2][3] Boxed warnings for this drug class also reference a potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors observed in animal studies, though it is not known whether this risk applies to humans.[2]

[1] Monami et al., Diabetes Obes Metab (2017)
[2] FDA prescribing information, Wegovy (2025)
[3] Wen et al., Endocrinol Diabetes Metab (2025)

※ Severe, persistent abdominal pain, especially if it radiates to the back and is accompanied by vomiting, a lump or swelling in the neck, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing, warrants prompt medical evaluation and should not be dismissed as a routine side effect.

Who Should Use Caution or Avoid These Drugs

Medical Conditions That May Rule Out GLP-1 Use

GLP-1 medications carry specific contraindications. Individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) are generally advised against use of this drug class because of the thyroid tumor signal observed in animal studies.[1] People who are pregnant or breastfeeding are also typically advised to avoid these medications, as safety data in pregnancy are limited.[1] Additionally, individuals with a history of certain gastrointestinal conditions, such as gastroparesis or a history of pancreatitis, may need to use particular caution given how these drugs affect digestive motility.[1]

[1] FDA prescribing information, Wegovy (2025)

Talking to Your Doctor Before Starting

Because GLP-1 medications interact with existing health conditions and other medications, a thorough discussion with a healthcare provider before starting treatment is an important step. This conversation typically includes a review of personal and family medical history, current medications, and individual weight or blood sugar management goals, allowing the provider to weigh the potential benefits against individual risk factors.

GLP-1 Drugs in Teens and Children

Use is climbing among younger patients too. In a JAMA Pediatrics study of about 204,000 patients ages 13 to 25 treated for obesity, the share treated with a GLP-1 drug alone rose from about 88% in 2022 to more than 96% in early 2026, while bariatric surgery fell from about 12% to under 4%.[1] A separate national analysis found that monthly GLP-1 dispensing to people ages 12 to 25 rose roughly 600% between 2020 and 2023.[2]

[1] JAMA Pediatrics research letter (2026)
[2] Lee et al., JAMA (2024)

Approval depends on age. Wegovy is FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adolescents 12 and older who meet clinical criteria, and no semaglutide product is approved for children under 12.[1] In Novo Nordisk's Phase 3 STEP Young trial of children ages 6 to under 12, 40.4% of those given semaglutide fell below the obesity threshold after 68 weeks, compared with 0% on placebo.[2] Those are trial results, not an approval.

[1] FDA approval letter, Wegovy sNDA 215256Orig1s005 (2022)
[2] Novo Nordisk, STEP Young trial announcement (2026)

Most large, long-term GLP-1 studies have been done in adults, so data on multi-year use in teens are still limited.[1] Families considering treatment for a teen can ask how growth, nutrition, and mood will be monitored. Because FDA labeling advises against use during pregnancy, teens and young adults who could become pregnant should also discuss contraception with their provider.[2]

[1] GLP-1 Agonists in Adolescent Obesity, narrative review (PMC13271900)
[2] FDA semaglutide prescribing information (2025)

What Happens If You Stop Taking GLP-1 Drugs

Research on discontinuation of GLP-1 medications suggests that many individuals experience a gradual return of appetite and some regain of previously lost weight after stopping treatment, since the underlying hormonal effects of the drug are not permanent.[1] These patterns appear to vary by individual, and researchers continue to study long-term outcomes after discontinuation. Anyone considering stopping a GLP-1 medication is encouraged to discuss a transition plan with their prescribing provider rather than stopping abruptly.

[1] Wilding et al., Diabetes Obes Metab (2022)

Supporting Your Body While on GLP-1 Medications

Because GLP-1 medications reduce appetite and slow digestion, some nutrition considerations may help support overall well-being during treatment. The following reflects general nutritional information, not medical advice specific to any individual.

Protein Intake

Some research on GLP-1 treatment has found an initial decline in lean muscle mass during the early months of weight loss, which tends to level off with continued treatment; in one study, measures of grip strength improved by the one-year mark even as fat mass continued to decrease.[1] Adequate protein intake is associated with helping preserve lean muscle mass during periods of reduced calorie intake, which may be relevant during this initial period.[2] Individuals with chronic kidney disease should be aware that higher-protein diets may place additional strain on kidney function and should discuss appropriate protein targets with their healthcare provider or a registered dietitian before making significant changes.[3]

[1] Alissou et al., Diabetes Obes Metab (2026)
[2] Ogilvie et al., Obesity (2022)
[3] Ko et al., J Am Soc Nephrol (2020)

Fiber-Rich Vegetables and Whole Grains

Dietary fiber from vegetables and whole grains is commonly associated with supporting digestive regularity, which may help offset constipation reported with GLP-1 use.[1] However, because these medications already slow gastric emptying, adding large amounts of fiber too quickly, particularly from concentrated fiber supplements, may worsen bloating, gas, or constipation rather than relieve it, so a gradual increase alongside adequate fluid intake is generally recommended.[1]

[1] Wang et al., Adv Nutr (2026)

Hydration

Maintaining adequate fluid intake is associated with supporting digestion and may help offset dehydration that can occur alongside gastrointestinal side effects such as vomiting or diarrhea.

Vitamin B12 and Other Micronutrients

Reduced food intake while on GLP-1 medications may raise the risk of inadequate intake of certain micronutrients, including vitamin B12, iron, and other vitamins typically obtained through a varied diet.[1] For individuals with reduced appetite, a healthcare provider may recommend a dietary supplement to help meet these needs. Anyone who is pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications should talk to a healthcare provider or pharmacist before adding a new supplement, since some supplements can interact with prescription drugs or are not well studied in pregnancy.[2]

[1] Butsch et al., Obesity Pillars (2025)
[2] Johnson et al., Obesity Pillars (2025); NIH ODS, Vitamin B12 Fact Sheet

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Dietary supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

References

  1. Moiz A, Filion KB, Tsoukas MA, Yu OHY, Peters TM, Eisenberg MJ. "Mechanisms of GLP-1 Receptor Agonist-Induced Weight Loss: A Review of Central and Peripheral Pathways in Appetite and Energy Regulation." American Journal of Medicine 138(6):934-940 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2025.01.020
  2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Wegovy (semaglutide) injection, prescribing information (2025). https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2025/215256s024lbl.pdf
  3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) injection, prescribing information (2026). https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2026/215866s009lbl.pdf
  4. Gallup. "In U.S., GLP-1 Usage Reaches New High" (2026). https://news.gallup.com/poll/712157/glp-usage-reaches-new-high.aspx
  5. Karrar HR, Nouh MI, et al. "Tirzepatide-Induced Gastrointestinal Manifestations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis." Cureus 15(9):e46091 (2023). https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.46091
  6. Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Davies M, et al. "Weight regain and cardiometabolic effects after withdrawal of semaglutide: The STEP 1 trial extension." Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism 24(8):1553-1564 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.14725
  7. Alissou et al. "Impact of Semaglutide on fat mass, lean mass and muscle function in patients with obesity: The SEMALEAN study." Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism (2026). https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.70141
  8. Ogilvie AR, et al. "Higher protein intake during caloric restriction improves diet quality and attenuates loss of lean body mass." Obesity 30(11) (2022). https://doi.org/10.1002/oby.23428
  9. Ko GJ, Rhee CM, Kalantar-Zadeh K, Joshi S. "The Effects of High-Protein Diets on Kidney Health and Longevity." Journal of the American Society of Nephrology 31(8):1667-1679 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1681/ASN.2020010028
  10. Wang Y, et al. "Dietary Fiber and Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists in Obesity Management: Converging Mechanisms, Interactions, and Strategies for Durable Weight Control." Advances in Nutrition (2026). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.advnut.2026.100647
  11. Butsch WS, Sulo S, Chang AT, et al. "Nutritional deficiencies and muscle loss in adults with type 2 diabetes using GLP-1 receptor agonists: A retrospective observational study." Obesity Pillars (2025). https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667368125000300
  12. Johnson BVB, et al. "Dietary supplement considerations during glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist treatment: A narrative review." Obesity Pillars (2025). https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667368125000531
  13. National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. "Vitamin B12 – Health Professional Fact Sheet." https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional/
  14. Monami M, Nreu B, Scatena A, et al. "Safety issues with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer and cholelithiasis): Data from randomized controlled trials." Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism 19(9):1233-1241 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.12926
  15. Wen J, Nadora D, Bernstein E, How-Volkman C, Truong A, Joy B, Kou M, Muttalib Z, Alam A, Frezza E. "Evaluating the Rates of Pancreatitis and Pancreatic Cancer Among GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials." Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism (2025). https://doi.org/10.1002/edm2.70113
  16. Emmerich SD, Fryar CD, Stierman B, Ogden CL. "Obesity and Severe Obesity Prevalence in Adults: United States, August 2021–August 2023." NCHS Data Brief No. 508. National Center for Health Statistics (2024). https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db508.htm
  17. "GLP-1 Receptor Agonist and Bariatric Surgery Utilization Among Adolescents and Young Adults." JAMA Pediatrics. Published online July 20, 2026. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapediatrics.2026.2828
  18. Lee JM, et al. "Dispensing of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists to Adolescents and Young Adults, 2020-2023." JAMA. 2024;331(23):2041-2043. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38776113/
  19. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Approval letter, Wegovy (semaglutide) sNDA 215256Orig1s005 (2022). https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/appletter/2022/215256Orig1s005ltr.pdf
  20. Novo Nordisk. "Novo Nordisk STEP Young phase 3 data: 40.4% of children living with obesity achieved a BMI below the obesity threshold with semaglutide and lifestyle modification." Press release, September 7, 2026. https://www.novonordisk.com/news-and-media/news-and-ir-materials/news-details.html?id=916600
  21. "GLP-1 Agonists in Adolescent Obesity: A Narrative Review of Single, Dual, and Triple Agonists." https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13271900/
  22. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Semaglutide Prescribing Information. Revised 2025. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2025/209637s025lbl.pdf

Update Timeline

View details 2
  1. September 18, 2026
    Clarified that the 39.9%-to-36.4% obesity-rate figure is a self-reported Gallup survey estimate, and added the CDC's measured NHANES obesity rate (40.3%, Aug. 2021-Aug. 2023) for methodological context.
    Distinguished the strength of evidence for GLP-1-associated gallbladder risk (supported by randomized-trial meta-analyses) from acute pancreatitis risk (based mainly on post-marketing safety signals, with mixed findings across recent randomized-trial meta-analyses).
  2. September 30, 2026
    Added a section on GLP-1 use in teens and children, merging key findings from two related articles: treatment trends among patients ages 13-25 (JAMA Pediatrics, 2026) and the STEP Young trial in children ages 6 to under 12.
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