Patients Taking GLP-1s Face a Double Dose of Stigma

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/patients-taking-glp-1s-face-double-dose-stigma-2026a10012zi?ecd=WNL_trdalrt_pos1_ous_261020_etid8813672&uac=148436CN&impID=8813672 GLP-1 medications have surged in popularity, transforming treatment for obesity and diabetes and showing promise for a growing range of other conditions. According to Gallup, an estimated 11% of US adults are currently taking GLP-1s for weight loss, nearly four times the rate since 2024. But despite their clinical benefits, people taking GLP-1s can face a double stigma: criticism related to their body size and judgment for using medication to lose weight. These attitudes may influence whether patients disclose their GLP-1 use, how they discuss treatment with others, and even their healthcare decisions.