Congress Must Act: Bring Down GLP-1 Costs or Expand Compounding Access

GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound have revolutionized treatment for obesity and type 2 diabetes, offering significant weight loss and reduced risks of heart disease and other chronic conditions. However, their high cost—often exceeding $1,000 per month—places them out of reach for many Americans, especially those without comprehensive insurance coverage . Compounded versions provided a more affordable alternative during shortages, but recent FDA actions have curtailed their availability, leaving patients with limited options. The discontinuation of compounded GLP-1s has forced many patients to either forgo treatment or seek unregulated sources, raising safety concerns . Dr. David Kessler, former FDA commissioner, emphasized the transformative impact of these drugs on public health, noting their potential to reduce healthcare costs by mitigating obesity-related diseases. Yet, without affordable access, these benefits remain inaccessible to those who need them most.  I urge Congress to take immediate action to address this crisis. This includes implementing measures to reduce the cost of brand-name GLP-1 medications and considering policies that allow compounding pharmacies to provide these treatments safely and affordably. Ensuring equitable access to these life-saving drugs is essential for improving public health and reducing long-term healthcare expenditures.