GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: Health Disparities Are Limiting Its Use

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by Tara E. l January 21, 2025

Racial health disparities in diabetes and obesity management remain a pressing concern, particularly in the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro or Zepbound). These medications offer promising benefits but are often underutilized by African Americans, a population with disproportionately higher rates of type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Benefits of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

GLP-1 receptor agonists provide multiple health benefits, including:

Improved Glycemic Control: These medications help regulate blood sugar levels effectively.
Weight Loss: Proven to aid in significant weight reduction, crucial for diabetes and obesity management.
Heart Health: Research shows these drugs lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Neurocognitive Protection: A recent study linked their use to a 12% reduction in Alzheimer’s disease risk.

Risks and Side Effects GLP-1

While GLP-1 receptor agonists offer substantial benefits, they also come with risks, such as:

Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting, particularly in the initial stages of treatment.
Increased Risk for Certain Conditions: Studies suggest a higher likelihood of pancreatic and joint disorders among users.

Racial Disparities in GLP-1 Prescription

Despite the advantages, African Americans are less likely to receive GLP-1 receptor agonists. Research from the U.S. Veterans Affairs Medical System reveals that Black veterans with diabetes had 26% lower odds of being prescribed semaglutide compared to white veterans. Another study found that Black patients are 20% less likely to begin newer diabetes treatments, exacerbating existing health disparities.

Why Equitable Access Matters

African Americans are disproportionately affected by diabetes-related complications, such as kidney disease and heart failure. Increasing access to GLP-1 receptor agonists is critical to bridging the gap in healthcare outcomes and improving the quality of life for this underserved community.

Call to Action

To address these disparities, we must:

Educate healthcare providers on the benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists for all patients.
Advocate for policy changes promoting equitable prescription practices.
Ensure affordability and accessibility of these life-changing medications for African American communities.

By prioritizing equitable healthcare, we can reduce racial disparities and empower all individuals to achieve better health outcomes.

Sources

Financial Times. (n.d.). Diabetes drug linked to lower Alzheimer’s risk but some other risks identified. Retrieved from https://www.ft.com/content/015e989d-75ca-4cbe-b315-13f910e35b62
Hopkins Medicine. (2022). Study finds minorities who most need new diabetes medications aren’t getting them. Retrieved from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/newsroom/news-releases/2022/01/study-finds-minorities-who-most-need-new-diabetes-medications-arent-getting-them
Reuters. (2024). U.S. minority veterans face unequal access to Ozempic, Wegovy, study finds. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/us-minority-veterans-face-unequal-access-ozempic-wegovy-study-finds-2024-11-11
Time. (2025). The health risks and benefits of weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. Retrieved from https://time.com/7207986/health-risks-benefits-weight-loss-drugs-ozempic-wegovy