Weight-loss drugs will generate economic gains for the US

We estimate that the weight-loss drug industry will be worth $80bn-140bn annually by 2030, thanks to rising rates of obesity and other weight-related health conditions. Around 40mn Americans will likely use a GLP-1 inhibitor, with most being middle- and high-income earners.

What you will learn:

• Weight-loss drug coverage under Medicare and Medicaid will add to the fiscal deficit in the near term, but some of this will be recovered in the long run as a healthier population increases labor force participation and worker productivity. Although, the reelection of former President Donald Trump adds uncertainty to our outlook for the fiscal impact of weight-loss drugs.
• The weight-loss drug industry will contribute to job growth thanks to the creation of new pharmaceutical manufacturing plants. We estimate a creation of 250,000-500,000 new jobs, but there will likely be some jobs lost to decreased spending at restaurants and bars.