Glp

• Major U.S. health insurers are limiting coverage of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy to their original FDA-approved use for diabetes management, excluding weight loss treatments. • According to industry analyst Andy, this shift reverses prior expansions amid rising costs and supply shortages, affecting millions of patients seeking obesity care. • The policy change aims to control spending on these high-demand medications, which have seen off-label use surge, potentially pushing patients toward alternatives or out-of-pocket payments.

• The FDA issued an urgent safety alert on March 20, 2026, warning of counterfeit versions of semaglutide and tirzepatide circulating through unverified online retailers, with 47 adverse events reported including severe infections and allergic reactions. • Counterfeit products lack sterility assurance and may contain contaminated ingredients or incorrect dosing, posing serious health risks to consumers seeking weight loss or diabetes treatment. • The agency recommends patients obtain GLP-1 medications only through licensed pharmacies with valid prescriptions, emphasizing that legitimate suppliers require medical supervision.

GLP-1 drugs, once primarily used for diabetes treatment, have demonstrated impressive effectiveness in treating obesity, which affects over 100 million Americans, according to PBS NewsHour reporting. The class of medications is generating significant clinical interest as researchers explore both the therapeutic benefits and potential risks associated with their use. Medical experts including Dr. Jody Dushay, Dr. Rekha B. Kumar, Dr. Anna Lembke, and Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly discussed the promise of these drugs alongside concerns about safety and long-term outcomes in recent coverage.