GLP-1 weight loss drugs linked to rise in anorexia cases

Health professionals and eating disorder specialists are reporting a significant increase in patients with anorexia using GLP-1 weight loss medications. Many individuals are obtaining these prescriptions through telehealth platforms with minimal medical oversight. In one instance, a patient in Chicago reported receiving medication just two days after submitting a form with inaccurate weight information to a telehealth service.

Experts note that the widespread availability of these drugs complicates recovery efforts for those struggling with anorexia. According to 2023 estimates from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington, approximately 3.9 million people worldwide suffer from anorexia nervosa. A study involving 436 adults with eating disorders, published in June by the University of Louisville and RTI International, indicated that over 20% of individuals in certain groups are affected by these trends.