Key takeaways GLP-1 is a natural hormone that regulates appetite, fullness, and blood sugar
Medicare Part D now covers GLP-1 for weight loss in beneficiaries with obesity (BMI 30) and at least one weight-related comorbidity as of 2024
(Source: ScienceDaily, May 2026) Who Is Using Semaglutide in America in 2026
This new indication adds to the prescribing label for Wegovy, a prescription-only medicine previously approved for adults and children aged 12 years and older with obesity, or some adults with overweight who also have weight-related medical problems, to help them lose excess body weight and keep the weight off when used along with a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity
The journey of semaglutide began with the understanding of the incretin effect, which describes how the body enhances insulin secretion in response to oral glucose as opposed to intravenous glucose
They have helped some people lose significant amounts of weight but can cause unpleasant side-effects such as nausea