The debate over weight-loss medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro has reached a fever pitch. With demand soaring and supply struggling to keep up, our latest poll asked a provocative question: should these prescription drugs be available over the counter?
The results reveal a striking generational divide that tells us as much about changing attitudes toward healthcare as it does about weight-loss medication specifically.
of respondents under 35 support over-the-counter access, compared to just 34% of those over 55
The Generational Fault Line
The most striking finding from our 18,347 responses isn't just that opinion is divided—it's how cleanly that division breaks down by age. Younger Americans overwhelmingly favor easier access to weight-loss medications, while older generations remain skeptical.
This pattern holds even when controlling for factors like BMI, income level, and political affiliation. Age appears to be the primary driver of opinion on this issue.
Why Are Younger People More Supportive?
Several factors may explain the generational gap. Younger respondents are more likely to:
Key Findings
- View obesity primarily as a medical condition rather than a personal failing
- Trust pharmaceutical interventions for chronic conditions
- Support reducing healthcare barriers and increasing accessibility
- Have personal experience with or know someone using these medications
- Be comfortable with managing their own healthcare decisions
The Safety Concern
Opponents of over-the-counter access raise valid safety concerns. These medications can cause significant side effects, from nausea and vomiting to more serious complications. They also require monitoring for contraindications with other medications and health conditions.
Among respondents who opposed OTC access, 78% cited safety as their primary concern. Many noted that even seemingly benign over-the-counter medications can be dangerous when misused, and weight-loss drugs carry even greater risks.
The Access Argument
Supporters counter that the current prescription requirement creates its own problems. Long wait times for specialist appointments, high costs, and insurance barriers mean many who could benefit from these medications can't access them.
Average monthly cost without insurance coverage, making these medications inaccessible for many Americans
Proponents argue that better access could prevent the serious health consequences of obesity, potentially saving lives and reducing long-term healthcare costs.
What This Means
The generational divide on this issue suggests we're witnessing a broader shift in how Americans think about healthcare, personal autonomy, and medical intervention for chronic conditions.
As these medications become more established and their safety profiles better understood, attitudes may continue to evolve. However, the current split suggests any policy changes will face significant resistance from older Americans who remain concerned about safety and the medicalization of weight management.
One thing is clear: the conversation about weight-loss medication access is far from over, and the divide we're seeing now will likely shape healthcare policy debates for years to come.