Use of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Medications and Modified Medication Use Among Adults — United States, 2025

Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are medications that help regulate appetite, lower blood glucose levels, and promote weight loss. GLP-1 medications are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for type 2 diabetes treatment, chronic weight management, and treatment of certain other health conditions. Data from CDC’s Rapid Surveys System were used to examine GLP-1 medication use among U.S. adults. During July–August 2025, approximately one in 10 U.S. adults reported taking a GLP-1 medication during the past year. Among GLP-1 users, approximately one in five reported taking a compounded version. Compounded GLP-1 medications are not reviewed by FDA for safety, effectiveness, or quality before they are marketed. Approximately two in five GLP-1 users modified their use of the medication from the way it was prescribed, often citing cost and availability as barriers to prescribed use. Substantial prevalence of GLP-1 medication use highlights the expanded role of these medications in chronic disease pharmacotherapy. Modifications in medication use, particularly among younger adults, reflect, in part, responses to cost- and access-related challenges. Better understanding of real-world medication use, including dose and frequency adjustments, is important because it might have implications for safety and effectiveness.