When it comes to weight loss, traditional interventions, from diet regimens to exercise routines, have been go-to solutions for most people. Even natural dietary supplements like Truvy have gone mainstream as more people pursue a healthier weight. However, these weight loss interventions are not blanket solutions. As a result, in recent years, there has been an emergence of a potential intervention that is more nuanced and aims to overcome barriers that make the aforementioned methods ineffective—these are weight loss drugs.

The weight loss drug market is currently valued at $1.9 billion and is expected to reach $82.8 billion by 2032 with a compound annual growth rate of 45.7%, according to DataHorizzon Research. Such impressive numbers highlight just how impactful weight loss drugs are and are slated to be. That said, apart from the obvious effect on pharma, these medications impart effects on other sectors, too, given how nuanced weight loss is. In truth, they have not only changed the way people approach weight management but have also influenced the economy and the way businesses operate.

What are weight loss drugs?

Weight loss drugs are medications that are prescribed by healthcare providers to help individuals lose weight as part of a medical weight loss program. These drugs are typically used in conjunction with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and behavioral therapy to help individuals achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

There are several different types of weight loss drugs available, each with its own unique mechanism of action and potential side effects. Some of the most popular drugs today are the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. The way GLP-1 medications promote weight loss is by reducing appetite, helping individuals feel more satisfied with smaller portions of food. They also slow down gastric emptying and positively impact metabolic parameters such as insulin sensitivity, all of which support weight loss. Saxenda weight loss medications were the first FDA-approved GLP-1 medications for weight loss in 2014. It was then followed by Ozempic in 2017 and Wegovy in 2021.

Another commonly prescribed medication is phentermine, which is intended for short-term use weight loss. It works by increasing the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that is involved in the body’s “fight or flight” response. The increase in norepinephrine levels helps suppress appetite and makes it easier for individuals to stick to a reduced-calorie diet. Qysmia weight loss medication is a popular phentermine brand, alongside Adipex-P and Lomaira.

Weight loss drugs’ impact outside of pharma

Social Media

A troubling aspect of weight loss drugs on social media is the way in which they are glamorized and portrayed as a quick and easy solution to achieving the perfect body. Influencers and celebrities endorse these products, showcasing their own seemingly flawless results and promising their followers that they, too, can achieve similar outcomes. This not only fosters unrealistic expectations among consumers but also fails to acknowledge the potential risks associated with the use of weight loss drugs.

Another concerning impact of weight loss drugs on social media is the potential for misinformation and the lack of regulation surrounding these products. According to an article on CBS News, many influencers promote these drugs without any scientific evidence or medical expertise, which can lead to individuals making uninformed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

The commodification of weight loss drugs on social media has also created a lucrative market that capitalizes on people’s insecurities and self-esteem issues. This not only perpetuates the cycle of body dissatisfaction and the continual pursuit of unattainable beauty standards but also reinforces the idea that one’s worth is contingent upon their physical appearance.

Food Industry

A noticeable impact of weight loss drugs on the food industry is the increased demand for low-calorie and low-fat products. As more individuals turn to these drugs to help them shed unwanted pounds, they are also seeking out foods that are compatible with their weight loss goals. This has led to a surge in the production and marketing of food labeled as “diet” or “light,” which are often lower in calories and fat than their regular counterparts.

Weight loss drugs have also influenced the types of ingredients that food manufacturers use in their products. With the rise in popularity of weight loss drugs, there has been a growing demand for natural and herbal ingredients that are believed to aid in weight loss. As a result, many food companies have started incorporating these ingredients into their products.

The availability of weight loss drugs has also influenced consumer behavior when it comes to dining out. Many individuals who are taking these drugs become more conscious of their food choices, opting for healthier options even when eating out at restaurants. This has prompted many food establishments to revamp their menus, offering more nutritious and lower-calorie options to cater to the growing demand for healthier dining alternatives.