The report, published Dec. 19, reviewed Medicaid program spending for 10 GLP-1 and SGLT-2 drugs to treat type 2 diabetes between 2019 and 2023. The report also tracked Medicaid spending for Wegovy and Saxenda, two GLP-1 drugs approved for weight loss.
GLP-1 drugs, including Ozempic, Monjauro and Rybelsus, treat type 2 diabetes. The drugs can cost more than $1,000 a month SGLT-2 drugs include Jardiance, Farxiga and Invokana.
Here are five numbers to know from the report:
- Between 2019 and 2023, Medicaid spending on 12 diabetes and weight loss drugs increased by more than 500%. In 2019, the program spent $1.5 billion on these drugs. In 2023, it spent $9.4 billion.
- In 2023, Medicaid spent $562.5 million on Wegovy and Saxenda.
- In 2019, diabetes and weight loss drugs accounted for 2% of Medicaid prescription drug spending. In 2023, these drugs accounted for 9% of prescription drug costs in the program.
- Of the $9.4 billion state Medicaid programs spent on weight loss and diabetes drugs in 2023, $2.1 billion was for Ozempic.
- The number of Medicaid claims for diabetes drugs increased by 333%, from 2.4 milllion in 2019 to 10.5 million in 2024.
Read the full report here.
At the Becker's 5th Annual Fall Payer Issues Roundtable, taking place November 17–19 in Chicago, payer executives and healthcare leaders will come together to discuss value-based care, regulatory changes, cost management strategies and innovations shaping the future of payer-provider collaboration. Apply for complimentary registration now.
