Poll Shows Americans Divided Over Weight-Loss Drugs for Obesity Treatment

While most support their use for adults with obesity, concerns remain about costs and appropriateness for teens.

A new AP-NORC poll reveals 54% of Americans view weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy as beneficial for adults with obesity, while 17% oppose their use and 28% remain neutral.
Public support for using these drugs among adolescents aged 12-17 is lower, with only 35% in favor and 37% against, reflecting concerns about their suitability for younger individuals.
Cost and insurance coverage are significant barriers, as Medicare does not cover these drugs for obesity and Medicaid coverage varies by state, despite growing demand.
Medical organizations like the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics advocate for broader access, citing the drugs' effectiveness in treating obesity as a chronic disease.
The poll also highlights societal discomfort with non-obese individuals using these medications, with 60% of respondents viewing such use by adults negatively and 70% disapproving for teens.