One in eight U.S. adults uses GLP-1 drugs; Medicare now opens weight-loss access - KOMO

What the report says

KOMO News, citing reporting by Kevin Moss and Herb Weisbaum of Checkbook.org, reported that use of GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Zepbound has risen sharply, with a KFF poll finding one in eight U.S. adults is currently using one of the drugs for weight loss or for conditions including diabetes or heart disease. The report focused on Medicare beneficiaries, who have often had limited access when the drugs are prescribed solely for weight loss.

According to the report, Medicare launched a GLP-1 Bridge Program on July 1, 2026. The temporary demonstration is scheduled to run through Dec. 31, 2027, and for the first time gives people with Medicare Part D a route to obtain GLP-1 drugs specifically for weight loss. KOMO reported that the program is administered centrally, outside standard Part D plans, with Medicare handling prior authorization, claims and pharmacy payments.

Eligibility extends nationwide, including U.S. territories, to beneficiaries enrolled in Part D through stand-alone drug plans, Medicare Advantage drug plans, Special Needs Plans and Employer Group Waiver Plans. A provider must submit prior authorization. The reported BMI thresholds are 35 or higher without an underlying condition, or 27 or higher with a qualifying underlying condition. Covered drugs include all formulations of Wegovy and Foundayo, plus Zepbound’s KwikPen formulation, with a flat $50 copay.

KOMO also noted an important cost caveat: because the bridge program operates outside Part D, the $50 copay does not apply toward a beneficiary’s deductible or catastrophic out-of-pocket limit. The article said GLP-1 drugs can cause gastrointestinal side effects and that people often regain weight after stopping treatment.