How weight loss & diabetes drugs

drive increased plan costs

Pharmacy benefit plan costs are on the rise with increased utilization of medications for members seeking weight management and treatment for type 2 diabetes with products such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. There has been a surge in prescribing of a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists that mimic a natural gut hormone causing blood glucose lowering and appetite suppressive effects. Such endpoints are appealing to a growing population of people being diagnosed with diabetes and obesity and are reflected in an uptick of attention on social media.

These medications are costing plans about $1,000 per utilizing member per month. Also adding to the total cost, treatment is typically...

#Ozempic gaining social media buzz

Companies invest to meet growing demand

Hashtags like #ozempic and #ozempicweightloss have taken social media by storm as users document their weight loss journeys across platforms. This buzz further impacts prescription sales as more people become aware of the potential weight loss effects. The surge in demand has led to worldwide medication shortages and actions to increase supply. Eli Lilly is investing $450 million to create a...