This outgoing year saw a notable rise in the popularity of weight-loss and diabetes drugs, including Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro, driven by celebrity endorsements, a national shortage, and intriguing clinical trials.

The drugs, known for their effectiveness in managing blood sugar levels and promoting significant weight loss, have become household names. The surge in demand has led to a quadrupling of prescriptions from 2020 to 2022, reaching around 9 million in late 2022.

However, this popularity has also resulted in drug shortages, with Ozempic and Wegovy making it to the FDA’s drug shortages list in 2023.

The growing interest in these medications suggests that their impact extends beyond weight loss, with data indicating potential benefits for cardiovascular health and addiction treatment.

Semaglutide, a key component in drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, has shown promise in reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Researchers are optimistic about the potential of these drugs, emphasising their significance in offering obesity treatments comparable to bariatric surgery.

As the pharmaceutical industry races to explore improved versions of these drugs, such as tirzepatide (Zepbound), the demand for diabetes and weight-loss prescriptions continues to climb.

While these medications exhibit significant benefits, experts caution about potential side effects and emphasise the importance of considering individual patient needs when prescribing them.

The high cost of these drugs poses a challenge, highlighting the need for broader access and monitoring to ensure their benefits outweigh the risks for those with obesity and related medical complications.