New Study Highlights Promise of Direct-To-Consumer Models That Facilitate Access to Anti-Obesity Medications

Pharmaceutical Executive February 21, 2024
Don Tracy, Associate Editor

Researchers highlight several benefits and concerns associated with the launch of direct-to-consumer models for GLP-1 receptor agonists.

Since the June 2021 FDA approval of semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, the demand for weight loss medication has surged, with social media influencers playing a role. According to a recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, limited access to GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight management has resulted in patients turning to direct-to-consumer (DTC) platforms.¹

These include weight-management services incorporating pharmacotherapy, wellness centers, and independent online platforms offering mail-order medications. Despite offering numerous benefits, the authors of the study were quick to point out that there were a number of risks associated with DTC platforms as well.

Potential benefits of...

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