Nearly 40% of prescriptions for Popular Weight Loss & Diabetes Drugs Go Unfilled, Raising Equity Concerns
WASHINGTON, D.C. – A meaningful number of prescriptions for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) – a class of drugs including Ozempic and Wegovy used for both diabetes and weight management – are going unfulfilled, with nearly 40% left unclaimed by patients, according to a new study published in JAMA Health Forum. The findings highlight a growing access crisis, particularly for individuals from marginalized racial and ethnic groups, and underscore the need for policy interventions to ensure equitable distribution of these increasingly vital medications.
The study, analyzing prescription fill data, revealed substantial disparities in access. Researchers found that cost is a major barrier, with some patients opting to pay cash for their prescriptions rather than utilize their insurance coverage. This suggests that even with insurance, out-of-pocket expenses remain prohibitive for many. Policymakers are now urged to explore solutions to improve access, as the medications’ potential benefits extend beyond weight loss to include cardiovascular and metabolic health improvements.
Researchers from several institutions, including the University of Southern California and Kaiser family Foundation, examined GLP-1RA order fills and associated costs. Their analysis, published october 2025, showed that disparities exist based on race, ethnicity, and the specific condition for which the drug is prescribed. A Kaiser Family Foundation issue brief from November 4, 2024, further detailed Medicaid coverage and spending on GLP-1s, revealing complexities in reimbursement and access within that crucial safety net program.
A 2021 review in Therapeutic Advances in Endocrinology and Metabolism by trujillo, Nuffer, and Smith, provided an updated comparison of head-to-head clinical studies of GLP-1 receptor agonists, reinforcing their established efficacy. However, the benefits of these medications are only realized if patients can actually obtain them.
The study authors concluded that improving equitable access to GLP-1RAs is paramount. Without intervention,existing health disparities are likely to widen as demand for these medications continues to grow.
References
- Sarpatwari A,Soto MJ,Ganguli I,Sloan CE,Goss F,Sinaiko AD. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist order fills and out-of-pocket costs by race, ethnicity, and indication. JAMA Health Forum. 2025; 6 (10): E254258. doi: 10.1001/Jamahealthforum.2025.4258
- Williams E, Rudowitz R, Bell C. Medicaid coverage of and spending on GLP-1s. Kaiser Family Foundation. November 4,2024. Accessed October 13, 2025. https://www.kff.org/medicaid/issue-brief/medicaidcoverage-of-and-spending-on-glp-1s/
- Trujillo JM, Nuffer W, Smith BA. GLP-1 receptor agonists: an updated review of head-to-head clinical studies Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab. 2021; 12: 2042018821997320. doi: 10.1177/2042018821997320
