– New drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound have revolutionized weight loss, but they are very expensive. They mimic hormones involved in appetite suppression.
– While these drugs could help address the disproportionately high obesity rates among racial/ethnic minority groups, their costs make them inaccessible to many people. Insurance rarely covers them for weight loss.
– Studies show racial/ethnic disparities exist in use of these drugs even among insured patients. Black and Latino Americans are less likely to receive them compared to white Americans.
– The high costs of the drugs means lower-income populations who face more barriers to healthy eating/exercise are least able to access them. This risks worsening obesity disparities rather than reducing them.
– Some individuals have succeeded in losing significant weight using the drugs, but sustaining treatment requires being able to afford monthly copays of $50 or more which many struggle with.
– Experts are concerned the drugs, while effective, will widen health inequities if certain groups are unable to access them due to financial barriers. More insurance coverage is needed to address disparities.
Source: Los Angeles Times
