Weekly GLP‑1 Drug Roundup: August 3rd 2025

Each week, we track the latest science, policy shifts, and market updates shaping the future of GLP‑1 drugs. Here’s what you need to know for the first week of August 2025.

1. Medicare & Medicaid to Pilot GLP‑1 Drug Coverage

Source: Washington Post

The U.S. government will launch a pilot program to offer GLP-1 drugs under Medicare and Medicaid. This marks a turning point in public access to these treatments, especially for patients managing obesity-related conditions.

Eligible patients with obesity and chronic conditions may soon receive coverage for medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide.

2. Tirzepatide Lowers Risk of Cardiovascular Events

Source: Eli Lilly Investor News

A new data release shows that tirzepatide significantly reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events in people with obesity — even those without diabetes. This adds momentum to dual agonists as metabolic and heart-protective therapies.

3. Study Shows Long-Term Weight Regain After GLP‑1 Stoppage

Source: BMC Medicine

A population study tracked over 10,000 former GLP-1 users. The results? Roughly 75% of lost weight was regained within two years after stopping treatment. Those who had the most success (>10% weight loss) saw the biggest rebound.

This underscores the need for long-term planning when starting GLP‑1 therapies.

4. Testosterone Boost Linked to GLP-1 Drugs

Source: NewsNation

Preliminary findings suggest GLP-1 use may raise testosterone in obese men. While more trials are needed, this unexpected side effect could benefit patients with low testosterone — a condition often tied to obesity itself.