Half of 18-34s have used or would consider using prescription weight-loss drugs

Young consumers aged 18-34 are showing the highest interest in weight-loss drugs, such as Wegovy and Mounjaro—according to the latest Mintel research. Almost half (48%) of the nation’s 18-34-year-olds, who are managing their weight*, have either used prescription weight-loss drugs in the past year or are interested in doing so in the future; this compares to a national average of just 30%.

Almost nine in ten (86%) of Britain’s 18-34s are actively managing their weight compared to an average of 73% of all Brits. While women of all ages are equally as likely to be trying to lose or maintain weight, men aged 18-24 (27%) are nearly three times more likely than any other group to be trying to gain weight.

Overall, almost eight in ten (77%) of 18-34s managing their weight are exercising to do so while 37% are managing their weight by diet. A further 26% are using non-prescription weight-loss drugs, such as weight-loss supplements like fat burners/metabolisers and weight-loss teas.

Francesca Smith, Mintel Principal Research Analyst – Consumer Lifestyles said:

“Young adults are the least likely to be overweight or obese, but the most likely to have used or be interested in using prescription weight-loss drugs. Awareness of prescription weight-loss drugs, such as Wegovy or Mounjaro, is likely higher among young adults due to discussions on social media and media coverage of reported celebrity use of the diabetes drug Ozempic as a weight-loss solution. This ‘quick-fix’ weight-loss interest also reflects body image anxieties, which are highest among young adults, with nearly half (49%) of women aged 18-34 saying their body image causes them stress or anxiety.

“Whilst Wegovy and Mounjaro are currently prescription-only for weight-loss, the increasing availability of related products, such as GLP-1 supplements and meals portioned to match the appetite of someone taking weight-loss medication, highlights the critical need for brands to communicate clearly and responsibly on this topic, including warnings of potential risks and side effects.

“Brands must avoid capitalising on body image anxieties and continue to promote sustainable lifestyle behaviours, such as exercise and nutritious diets, to go alongside any other weight loss methods, and for overall healthy wellbeing.”

*Consumers who were trying to lose or maintain weight were asked if they had used prescription weight-loss drugs in the last 12 months or would be interested in using them in the future to manage weight.