Injectable GLP-1 weight loss medications move along a pharmaceutical manufacturing line. A new policy change will allow certain low-income Medicare beneficiaries to access GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy at significantly reduced prices through the federal Extra Help program, expanding access to treatments that can cost more than $1,000 per month.
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July 13, 2026
GLP-1 weight loss drugs like Ozempic can cost more than $1,000 a month. Now, a new policy change means some low-income Medicare beneficiaries may be able to get them for as little as $11. Here is who qualifies and what it means for health equity.
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The number of Americans taking a GLP-1 drug for weight loss is on the rise. A new Gallup poll shows 11% of adults say they are currently using one, a dramatic increase from just two years ago when just 3% said they were using them. That number could climb even higher as Medicare has cleared the way for some patients to access the drugs.
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NOTE: If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think about? What would you want to learn more about?
What does it mean to have such a wide range of weight reductions seen? What challenges does this present as more brands develop their own varieties for an increasingly interested number of consumers? How would these challenges potentially affect both cost of and access to GLP-1s?
Much of the discussion around GLP-1s centers around access and affordability. While these are important concerns for patients, the science behind the drug came from an unexpected place and is worth exploring. Students can visit this page from the UK Natural History Museum and learn more about the Gila Monster and its role in the development of GLP-1s. Read through the page and on its other examples of how venom is being used to study medicine effects. After students are done, they should discuss the page and how important it is for scientists to look in all places when they encounter challenges. Some guiding questions can be:
To explore more about how looking to nature can help with innovation, check out PBS News Hour Classroom's Invention Education series with lessons ranging from biomimicry to solving environmental challenges.
Join Dr. Vin Gupta—pulmonologist, public health expert, and professor—for a yearlong series offering expert-led webinars, blogs, resources, and Q&A sessions on pressing health issues to help AFT members and communities stay informed and healthy. Access all on-demand town halls and register for the next one.
Republished with permission from PBS News Hour Classroom.
