Obesity Medication Treatment Perspectives Among People with Overweight or Obesity

Obesity is a complex, chronic condition associated with multiple health complications. While obesity medications (OMs), particularly GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), have demonstrated significant clinical benefits, real-world insights into patient experiences with these therapies remain limited. This study evaluated patients' behaviors and experiences with OMs, including their financial impact; and aimed to identify key decision points for seeking and receiving treatment with OMs.

Individuals were recruited from a national database to complete a 20-minute online survey between July 8 and July 18, 2024. Eligible participants were adults aged 21 years or older with a body mass index (BMI) of ≥30 kg/m², or ≥27 kg/m² with at least one obesity-related complication (ORC) and were currently using an OM. Participants reported their experiences with OMs, motivations and barriers for treatment, challenges, interactions with HCPs and financial challenges with OMs.

100 people with obesity (PwO) participated in the survey. The median age of the respondents was 46 years. Most PwO (94%) had at least one comorbidity in addition to overweight/obesity, and 58% were more concerned about obesity compared with other health conditions. Most PwO (91%) were currently using GLP-1RAs and had previously attempted a median of 3 unique weight management strategies prior to OM initiation. Primary drivers for OM initiation were long-term health improvement (58%) and functional enhancement (53%). Major barriers included insurance restrictions (38%), concerns about side effects (37%), and cost (31%). While on OMs, most (88%) PwO reported a positive experience, citing significant benefits on body weight and appetite reduction; 9% were neutral and 3% reported a negative experience. Participants with longer durations of reported treatment more often reported positive experiences (79% among those with ≥6 months of therapy; 51% among those with <6 months of therapy). The study also found that 56% of PwO expected to be on their current OM for a limited period, with 20% anticipating less than a year and 28% anticipating less than two years. The anticipated treatment duration among PwO varied with reported out-of-pocket (OOP) costs. Communication with HCPs frequently addressed side effects and administration, but discussions about treatment duration and lifestyle integration were less consistent.

This study highlights the multifaceted experiences of PwO in managing obesity, particularly regarding OM use. The findings underscore the importance of early intervention, robust patient-provider communication, equitable access, and financial support to optimize treatment outcomes. Addressing systemic barriers, stigma, education, and access challenges will be essential to maximize the utility of obesity pharmacotherapy in clinical practice.