About one-third of U.S. employer health plans now cover GLP-1 drugs for both diabetes and weight management, according to a recent survey by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans. Coverage has increased significantly since last year:

• Fifty-seven percent provide coverage for diabetes only, up from 49% in 2023.
• One-third provide coverage for both diabetes and weight loss, up from 26%.
• Of those that currently offer coverage only for diabetes, 19% are considering offering the drugs for weight loss as well.

GLP-1 drugs promote weight loss by reducing appetite and causing the stomach to empty more slowly. First approved to treat diabetes, Novo Nordisk's Wegovy and Eli Lilly's Zepbound are in high demand after having been shown to reduce weight by around 20%. The biggest question surrounding GLP-1 drugs has not been their efficacy but who will pay for them. In the United States, the list price for GLP-1 drugs can range between $936 and $1,349 before insurance, rebates or other discounts.