New Study: GLP-1 Drugs Could Save Middle-Aged Adults Over $192,000 in Lifetime Medical Costs

A new study from the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) indicates that middle-aged adults using GLP-1 drugs for obesity may save hundreds of thousands of dollars in lifetime medical bills. The report estimates an average savings of $192,735 for individuals between the ages of 40 and 50.

Surprisingly, these projected savings increase to $220,000 for adults in the same age bracket who do not possess college degrees. In contrast, college-educated individuals were estimated to save $163,000. Felipe Montano-Campos, the study's lead author, suggested this discrepancy arises because GLP-1s treat obesity without requiring strict diet and exercise, making them more accessible for individuals with time constraints, such as those working multiple jobs or with lower socioeconomic status.

Researchers simulated the U.S. adult population aged 25 and older to evaluate the lifetime health and economic effects of GLP-1 use for weight loss. They compared two scenarios: one without GLP-1 use and another with sustained GLP-1 consumption for adults meeting obesity criteria, defined as a Body Mass Index (BMI) above 30.

Starting GLP-1 usage at younger ages could lead to even greater savings. The study projects that individuals beginning GLP-1 use between the ages of 25 and 30 could save up to $270,800 over their lifetime.

However, the financial accessibility of GLP-1s remains a concern. Fatima Cody Stanford, an obesity medicine physician at Massachusetts General Hospital, noted that realizing the full health benefits from GLP-1s necessitates consistent, long-term use, which could cost hundreds of dollars per month indefinitely. Stanford cautioned that discontinuing the medication could lead to weight regain and the re-emergence of associated cardiometabolic diseases.

Stanford estimated that the average American taking FDA-approved GLP-1s for weight management, such as Wegovy, might pay between $350 and $450 per month. Without insurance, Wegovy can cost approximately $1,350 per month. She stated that these prices are often beyond the reach of many Americans, including those who could benefit most from the drugs. Montano-Campos acknowledged that the NBER study's simulation assumes consistent lifetime access to the drug and does not account for potential discontinuation due to financial reasons.

According to Fortune, over 40 million Americans have reported using GLP-1 drugs for weight loss, and the market for these drugs could grow to $240 billion. (Source: Fortune)