1 in 8 Americans Now Use GLP-1 Drugs for Weight Loss

GLP-1 medicines are a fast-rising class of drugs that mimic a gut hormone (glucagon-like peptide-1 or GLP-1), which helps regulate blood sugar and signals fullness. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, newer formulations and broader use have made these treatments, such as semaglutide (sold as Wegovy by Novo Nordisk), a major force in the weight-loss market, reshaping both demand and public debate around obesity care.

Our chart reveals how quickly reported use has grown in the U.S., the country leading the global boom. In mid/late 2025, 12.4 percent of U.S. adults said they take a GLP-1 medicine specifically for weight loss, up from 5.8 percent in February 2024. These figures come from Gallup surveys of over 15,000 U.S. adults (aged 18 and over) surveyed in 2024 and 2025. Additionally, a Statista Consumer Insights survey conducted among over 1,000 U.S. respondents in January-February 2026 summarizes how Americans currently think about using GLP-1 drugs to lose weight. The leading statements suggest a public that is increasingly open to such medical treatment. Many describe GLP-1s as a legitimate option for a chronic disease or as a next step if lifestyle changes fail, while a notable minority still expresses hesitation, including the belief that weight should be managed through willpower alone.