What Impact Does the New Presidency Have on GLP-1 Medications?

With President-elect Donald Trump back in the White House, one question looms large: How will his administration handle the hot-button issue of prescription drug pricing? If you or a loved one depends on GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Wegovy for diabetes or weight loss, this could directly impact you. Let me walk you through the potential changes, and I’ll share some thoughts on what it could mean for all of us.

Medicare and GLP-1 Medications

President Trump has built his brand on making deals, and here’s one that’s ripe for the taking: Keep Medicare's commitment to covering GLP-1 medications for weight loss—a major step made by President Biden—but only if drugmakers agree to lower their prices significantly.

In my opinion, this would be a bold move, but it wouldn’t come without challenges. Trump and his Republican allies have historically opposed government intervention in drug pricing. In fact, during his first term, Trump supported the idea of negotiating drug prices but never followed through. And while this issue was largely absent from his 2024 campaign, it’s now front and center.

Why GLP-1 Medications Are Worth the Focus

Let me just say this—GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy are game-changers. They’ve revolutionized diabetes management and weight loss, but the price tag is staggering. Covering these drugs under Medicare, as Biden’s administration aimed to do, could make them accessible to millions more Americans.

However, here’s the catch: For this to work, drugmakers would need to cut prices significantly. And while this would be a win for patients, it’s a tough sell for pharmaceutical companies that have long resisted price reductions.

The Political Tightrope

Trump and his Republican allies face a tricky path forward. On one hand, there’s pressure to repeal the 2022 drug price negotiation law. Congressional Republicans have been vocal about their opposition to this legislation, and Project 2025—a conservative manifesto crafted by Trump allies—explicitly calls for dismantling the program.

On the other hand, this presents Trump with a major political opportunity. Imagine the narrative: Trump delivers affordable life-changing medications to millions of Americans. It’s a move that could resonate with both seniors and middle-class voters.

Still, the risks of not acting are significant. In my experience, when an issue like drug pricing touches so many lives, ignoring it can lead to backlash. Patients who rely on these medications are watching closely, and failing to address the high costs could hurt the administration’s standing with everyday Americans.

What This Means for You

If you’re someone who depends on GLP-1 medications or knows someone who does, here’s my take on what to expect:

1. Uncertainty in the Short TermTrump’s track record on this issue has been inconsistent, so it’s hard to say what action will be taken right away. Medicare coverage for GLP-1 drugs could hang in the balance.

2. Potential Price CutsIf Trump decides to keep Medicare’s coverage for weight loss medications, there’s a chance we’ll see drugmakers agreeing to lower prices—but this would likely require significant negotiation.

3. Political PushbackAny move to maintain or expand drug price negotiations could face resistance from within Trump’s own party. That could mean delays or compromises before we see real action.

   
   

What Should You Do?

Here’s my advice for navigating this uncertainty..

• Stay Informed: With so much at stake, keeping an eye on how these policies unfold will help you plan for any changes.

• Talk to Your Healthcare Provider: If you’re currently using GLP-1 medications, ask about alternatives or financial assistance programs that can help in the meantime.

• Advocate for Yourself: Reach out to lawmakers or join advocacy groups to make your voice heard. Policies like these are influenced by public demand, and every voice matters.

Why This Matters..

In my experience, when it comes to healthcare, bold moves often come with big challenges. Trump’s presidency presents both a political opportunity and a chance to make a real difference for millions of Americans struggling with the high cost of medications.

But let’s be honest—whether Trump chooses to embrace Medicare drug price negotiations or scrap them altogether, it’s going to be a defining issue for his administration. For now, the best thing we can do is stay informed and continue to push for policies that prioritize patients over profits.

What do you think—will Trump take the deal? It’s a question worth watching closely, and I’m hopeful we’ll see progress that makes GLP-1 medications more accessible and affordable for everyone.

Michael Stephens is the founder of The GLP-1 Source, a platform built from personal experience navigating the overwhelming world of health, fitness, and GLP-1 medications. After struggling to find clear, reliable information in a sea of conflicting advice, Mike created this website as a straightforward, no-nonsense resource for those looking to make informed decisions about their health. Whether you're exploring GLP-1 medications, optimizing your fitness, or building sustainable habits, The GLP-1 Source provides practical insights, expert-backed tips, and real-world guidance to help you on your journey to a healthier life.