Weight-Loss Drugs: All That Glitters

Since SCOR’s last publication* on the topic in early 2024, weight-loss drugs have seen a range of interesting new developments, including emerging oral formulations and combination therapies, enhancing convenience and outcomes. In parallel, clinical experience has grown alongside the number of active and former users, increasing the exposure of insurers.

As a quick reminder, modern weight-loss drugs contain glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which mimic the effects of the GLP-1 hormone, a natural digestive hormone that helps control blood sugar levels. These GLP-1 receptor agonists form the active ingredient semaglutide and are sold under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy. GLP-1 agonists are combined with glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) to create medications containing the active ingredient tirzepatide, sold under the brand names Mounjaro and Zepbound. 

GLP-1 receptor agonists are reshaping obesity therapeutics and are offering significant other benefits beyond weight loss. Despite their promise, however, challenges remain. In this paper, we want to shed light on how the findings from clinical studies on these new drugs translate into individual benefits, and what this means for the L&H insurance industry.

* Are new weight-loss drugs key to solving the obesity epidemic? | SCOR