GLP‑1 Medications Surge in Popularity as Local Residents Weigh Benefits and Risks

National rise in diabetes and weight‑loss prescriptions sparks growing interest across Brunswick and Columbus counties

By BCNews Staff Writer

GLP‑1 medications — sold under names like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro—are seeing rapid growth nationwide, and that trend is now reaching Brunswick and Columbus counties. Once used mainly for Type 2 diabetes, these drugs are increasingly sought by residents exploring weight‑loss options, raising new questions about access, safety, and cost.

Federal health data shows that about 26.5% of U.S. adults with diagnosed diabetes now use a GLP‑1 injectable, a sharp rise in recent years. At the same time, national analyses indicate that weight‑loss use is expanding even faster, though no single federal statistic captures the exact number of non‑diabetic users.

The trend is especially relevant in southeastern North Carolina, where diabetes and obesity rates remain above the national average. Many local families face limited access to specialists, inconsistent insurance coverage, and the challenges of managing chronic conditions in rural communities. As GLP‑1 medications gain attention, more residents are asking whether these drugs could offer a new option.

Local pharmacies — including Galloway Sands Pharmacy in Brunswick County and the Prescription Center in Columbus County’s Lake Waccamaw community — are among the places where residents check on availability, insurance requirements, and refill timelines. Interest continues to grow, though supply and coverage can vary widely. Insurance plans often cover GLP‑1s for diabetes but not for obesity, leaving some patients with high out‑of‑pocket costs, that can be out of reach for many.

Medical professionals caution that GLP‑1s are not quick fixes. The drugs mimic a natural hormone that regulates appetite and blood sugar, often leading to reduced hunger and gradual weight loss. Common side effects include nausea and digestive discomfort, while rare but serious risks — such as pancreatitis — require monitoring. Providers emphasize that these medications work best alongside long‑term lifestyle changes.

For many residents, the decision to start a GLP‑1 medication reflects years of managing diabetes and/or struggling with weight. The possibility of improved blood sugar control or meaningful weight loss brings both hope and hesitation.

As demand rises nationwide, GLP‑1 medications are likely to remain a major topic in Brunswick and Columbus counties. Health experts encourage residents to discuss benefits, risks, and expectations with a qualified clinician before beginning treatment.