A recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center has shed light on how Americans perceive the use of weight-loss drugs, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, and their potential impact on obesity in the United States.

According to the survey, approximately three-quarters of Americans have some level of awareness about these weight-loss drugs. Among those familiar with the drugs, 53% believe that they are viable options for individuals with obesity or weight-related health conditions. In contrast, only 12% of respondents consider these drugs suitable for individuals without weight-related health conditions.

Ozempic and Wegovy, both belonging to the class of GLP-1 agonists, are known for their ability to regulate blood sugar levels and suppress appetite. While Ozempic is FDA-approved for diabetes treatment, Wegovy is specifically approved for individuals with obesity or excess weight who also have weight-related health conditions.

The high demand for these drugs has resulted in supply shortages, raising concerns about off-label use and its impact on individuals relying on these drugs for managing their health conditions.

Despite some experts hailing drugs like Ozempic as a breakthrough in treating obesity, the public’s expectations for their impact on obesity in the U.S. remain modest. Only 16% of those familiar with these drugs believe they will significantly contribute to reducing obesity, while 35% anticipate some impact and 33% expect minimal to no effect on reducing obesity in the country.

These findings provide valuable insights into the public perception of weight-loss drugs and their potential role in addressing the obesity epidemic in the United States.