GLP-1 Drugs Show Promise Beyond Diabetes and Obesity but Raise Cost and Ethical Concerns

Off-label uses for GLP-1 medications include addiction treatment and cardiovascular benefits, but high costs and limited research complicate widespread adoption.

GLP-1 drugs, originally developed for Type 2 diabetes, are being prescribed off-label for conditions like addiction, heart disease, and fatty liver disease, though research remains in early stages for these uses.
Studies suggest GLP-1 medications may reduce cravings for substances like alcohol and opioids by modulating brain reward pathways, but clinical evidence is still limited.
Wegovy, a GLP-1 drug, has shown a 20% reduction in the risk of major cardiovascular events in certain populations, but its high cost and limited insurance coverage pose barriers to access.
Real-world data indicate that GLP-1 drugs for obesity do not yet offset overall healthcare costs, with average patient expenses increasing significantly over two years.
Ethical and practical concerns about off-label prescribing include potential supply shortages for diabetic patients, uneven access, and the long-term implications of using such medications for non-FDA-approved conditions.