A recent survey conducted among a diverse group of 8,793 Americans has revealed that approximately 11.8% have tried GLP-1 agonists, a class of medications used for weight loss, including popular options like Ozempic. Furthermore, 14% of respondents expressed interest in potentially using these drugs in the future. However, a significant 74% stated they do not plan to take these medications.
The findings highlight a growing trend in the use of GLP-1 medications, which have gained popularity following research indicating their effectiveness in facilitating weight loss. Notably, since 2020, the number of prescriptions for these drugs has surged, more than tripling in that time frame.
Conducted by RAND researchers, the survey gathered insights from participants in the RAND American Life Panel during April and May of 2025. The panel consists of approximately 11,000 actively interviewed respondents aged 12 and older, established by RAND in 2006. The recent report stands as the largest assessment to date regarding the usage of GLP-1 medications and the side effects experienced by users.
Key findings from the report include:
– **Side Effects**: Among individuals who have used GLP-1 drugs, about 50% reported experiencing nausea, while roughly one-third dealt with diarrhea. These two side effects are the most frequently cited by users.
– **Demographic Variations**: The survey indicated that women use GLP-1 medications at higher rates than men, particularly notable among different age demographics. For instance, the prevalence is highest among adults aged 50 to 64, with women in this age group leading usage statistics. Conversely, among individuals aged 65 and older, men were reported to use these medications slightly more often than women.
– **Age Differences**: For those aged 30 to 49, the disparity is significant, with women more than twice as likely to have tried a GLP-1 drug compared to their male counterparts.
The comprehensive report titled “New Weight Loss Drugs: GLP-1 Agonist Use and Side Effects in the United States” can be accessed at [www.rand.org](http://www.rand.org), and was authored by Robert Bozick, Shannon Donofry, and Katherine M. Rancaño. This publication is the first in a series aimed at delivering concise reports derived from surveys conducted on the RAND American Life Panel.
In addition to outlining current usage trends, the report also reflects the RAND Education and Labor division’s mission to enhance education and expand economic opportunities through thorough research and analysis. As more Americans explore options for weight management, understanding the implications of GLP-1 medications is crucial for both current users and those considering these treatments. The significance of the findings could shape ongoing discussions around weight loss strategies and medication use in the years to come.
