GLP-1 medications have taken center stage in the weight-loss arena this year, though certain elderly individuals are apparently opting out of the trend.
A research piece in JAMA from January 2025, examining over 125,000 individuals who were overweight or obese, indicated that almost 47% of participants with type 2 diabetes and 65% without diabetes ceased using their prescribed GLP-1s within twelve months of initiation.
Dr. John Batsis, an expert in geriatrics and obesity at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine, shared with The New York Times that adults over 65 represent "ideal candidates" for this treatment, given that obesity affects roughly 40% of seniors.
Understanding GLP-1 Drugs
These pharmaceuticals replicate a bodily gut hormone known as GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and are mainly employed for managing type 2 diabetes and body weight. In addition, they have undergone trials for addressing other ailments, including sleep apnea and heart-related incidents.
Initiating and halting these medications frequently results in regained weight, heightened hunger, and forfeiture of related health perks, such as decreased blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as noted by Stamford Health and specialists. Moreover, the likelihood of obesity-linked issues, like heart conditions and sleep apnea, could rise.
Nevertheless, several elderly Americans are reportedly forsaking their weight-loss prescriptions due to various motives, ranging from pronounced adverse reactions to escalating expenses.
Outlined below are the four primary factors prompting seniors to abandon their GLP-1 regimens.
Reason 1: Elevated Expenses
The expense of GLP-1 treatments plays a pivotal role in sustaining therapy, particularly amid supply challenges.
The New York Times recounted the experience of 75-year-old Mary Bucklew, a former public transit worker residing in Delaware, who initially paid only a $25 monthly co-payment via her health plan for Ozempic to shed pounds.
She shed 25 pounds over six months and noted boosted vitality. Yet, her insurer informed her of discontinuing coverage, even after her pleas regarding its health necessity.
Without insurance support, the prescription would exceed $1,000 monthly out-of-pocket, compelling her to halt usage.
Certain GLP-1 producers have attempted to enhance affordability. In December 2025, Lilly declared plans to reduce the cost of Zepbound (tirzepatide) single-dose vials.
"An excessive number of individuals requiring obesity therapies encounter financial and coverage obstacles," stated Ilya Yuffa, executive vice president and president for Lilly USA, in the release. "This step highlights Lilly's dedication to enhancing availability in obesity care. We remain committed to offering additional alternatives, such as varied delivery methods and novel access routes, enabling more people to obtain essential medications."
Reason 2: Intense Adverse Reactions
In a discussion with Fox News Digital, Dr. Sue Decotiis, a physician specializing in medical weight reduction in New York City, affirmed that over half of elderly patients discontinue GLP-1 drugs because of expenses or side effects.
Typical reactions encompass nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, headaches, tiredness, and hair loss, per specialists.
