For this review, the authors searched for randomized controlled trials published in MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL from inception through October 4, 2024.

Intuitively, it would seem that GLP-1 use for obesity would reduce overall medical costs despite the increase in drug spending. But thus far, the data don’t show this.

These drugs, called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), work in several different ways to help people lose weight, gain control over their blood sugar levels, and improve their heart health, a new study published in the journal Cureus says.

GLP-1 drugs spiked in popularity and price over the past few years, leaving the door open for illegal pharmacies to try and sell cheaper counterfeit versions.