Demand for GLP-1 Weight-Loss Drugs Surges in Great Britain
According to a large household survey published in BMC Medicine, around 4.9 million adults in Great Britain (about 1 in 10) have either used or are interested in trying new weight-loss injections. This data shows that demand for GLP-1 receptor agonists and GLP-1/GIP dual agonists is rapidly increasing across the country.
Why Are GLP-1 Drugs So Popular?
GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP medications were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, but researchers later found they are also highly effective for weight loss—at least while patients continue taking them. With rising chronic disease rates in Great Britain putting pressure on the National Health Service (NHS), more people are turning to these drugs to manage obesity.
What Did the Study Find?
Researchers at University College London (UCL) conducted a nationally representative cross-sectional household survey between January and March 2025. Among 5,260 participants:
- 4.5% reported using GLP-1/GIP medications for any reason in the past year
- 2.9% used them for weight management
- 1.7% used them solely for weight loss
These figures represent approximately 1.6 million adults in Great Britain who have used these medications for weight management in the past year. The most commonly reported medication was Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a GLP-1/GIP drug.
Who Is More Likely to Use Weight-Loss Drugs?
The study also found that women, middle-aged adults, and people experiencing recent stress are most likely to use or want weight-loss medications. Those facing financial difficulties or long-term illness also showed high interest in trying these drugs, though actual use remained fairly equal across all income levels.
However, the surge in demand has led to issues such as supply shortages, increased desire for the drugs, and misuse. Some individuals use these medications without a proper prescription or without meeting approved medical criteria.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any weight-loss medication.
The Xiaoshu Health App can sync with Apple Health to track relevant indicators, helping you scientifically manage weight and metabolic health.