A nationwide poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research reveals that most Americans support the use of prescription weight-loss medications for adults with obesity or related health conditions. The survey was held between 9 and 13 of January 2025. It provides insight into public attitudes regarding the use and coverage of these treatments.
Public Opinion Favors Weight-Loss Medications for Adults with Medical Need, Half of Americans Back Medicare, Medicaid Coverage for Obesity Drugs
Weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy belong to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. They were originally developed for type 2 diabetes. However, because they mimic the GLP-1 hormone, which helps regulate appetite, insulin, and blood sugar levels, these medications are now widely used to promote weight loss in overweight and obese individuals.
The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research conducted a survey earlier in 2025 using the probability-based panel called the AmeriSpeak Panel. This represented 97 percent of U.S. households. 1147 adults were interviewed online or by phone in English or Spanish between 9 and 13 of January 2025. The following are the important survey findings:
• Support for Adult Use with Medical Need: 54 percent of Americans support the use of prescription weight-loss drugs for adults with obesity or weight-related conditions. This reflects general public approval when there is a clear medical reason.
• Minimal Support for Teenagers: Only 35 percent support the use of weight-loss drugs for teenagers who have obesity or associated health issues. Public opinion is more cautious regarding adolescents due to health, developmental, and safety concerns.
• Strong Opposition to Cosmetic Use in Adults: Merely 12 percent of respondents believe that it is a good idea for adults who are not obese and have no related health problems to use weight loss drugs. The public largely disapproves of non-medical use.
• Minimal Approval for Cosmetic Use in Teens: Support falls even lower to just 8 percent when it comes to teenagers using weight-loss medications without a medical necessity. This indicates strong reservations against unneeded intervention in youth.
• Support for Medicare and Medicaid Coverage: About half support allowing Medicare and Medicaid to cover prescription weight-loss drugs for people with obesity. This aligns with recent federal proposals to expand coverage through public insurance.
This poll reflects growing public concern around the safe and appropriate use of weight-loss drugs. While many Americans recognize the potential health benefits for individuals with obesity, they also draw clear boundaries around use in populations perceived as more vulnerable or less in need of medical intervention. Support is notably shaped by medical necessity.
FURTHER READING AND REFERENCE
- AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. January 2025. “Many See the Benefit of Using Weight Loss Drugs for Adults with Obesity.” AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. Available online