Compounding weight loss

In a recent meeting with a leading weight loss drug developer, management said the weight loss drug market differs from most other pharma market in that it is characterized by a very large unmet medical need (high obesity rates) and consumer-like behavior. Various individuals, both ordinary and famous, are actively promoting weight loss drugs through social media and personal networks. Additionally, a large number of people are proactively asking their doctors about these drugs. The demand for weight loss drugs is so high that the two branded suppliers currently in the market cannot keep up, leading to declared shortages. Under US law, this situation allows compounding pharmacies to produce the still on-patent drugs, likely boosting supply substantially. Survey data suggests that 3% to 6% of US adults are currently using weight loss drugs, compared to 1.4% using branded weight loss drugs.

Source: US Food & Drug Administration, October 2024.