Patient Knowledge of GLP‐1 Receptor Agonists for Obesity and Exploration of Potential Household‐Level Effects in an Urban Health System

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Abstract
Background: The use of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RAs) for obesity management has gained widespread popularity and media attention. However, little is known about patients' knowledge related to GLP‐1 RAs (e.g., prescribing indications, side effects), how patients currently learn and wish to learn about GLP‐1 RAs, and how GLP‐1 RA use may impact weight‐related behaviors and attitudes within households (e.g., food purchasing patterns). Objective: This study evaluated these questions among diverse adults recruited from a large, urban health system. Methods: Participants were recruited to complete a brief online questionnaire through flyers posted in several outpatient clinics within a large health system. Recruitment occurred from November 2024 to April 2025. Descriptive statistics were calculated. Results: Fifty‐two patients completed the questionnaire. Overall, 98% of participants had heard at least “a little” about GLP‐1 RAs. The conditions participants most commonly believed could benefit from use were obesity (88%), diabetes (75%), and high blood pressure (43%). The side effects they had heard most about were nausea/vomiting (71%), diarrhea (49%), and constipation (47%). Expected amount of weight loss and understanding of GLP‐1 RAs' mechanisms of action varied widely. The most common GLP‐1 RA information source was commercials/advertisements (73%); however, the most frequently preferred information source was healthcare professionals (87%). In exploratory analyses among patients with current or past GLP‐1 RA use and ≥ 1 other household member ( n = 12), 75% believed their use impacted adult household members' attention to weight, eating, or exercise; 50% believed GLP‐1 RA use impacted child/adolescents household members' attention to these matters; and 42% reported perceived weight loss among household adult(s). All GLP‐1 RA users reported changes in their household meal behaviors, and many reported shifts toward more healthful food purchases. Conclusion: These findings suggest that many patients understand the primary indications for GLP‐1 RAs for obesity and common side effects, while also highlighting opportunities for improved decision support. Additional research on a potential “ripple effect” within households using larger samples and more robust methods is warranted.
Funding Information
  • Temple University

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