A recent survey indicates that approximately three million Canadian adults are presently utilizing GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Mounjaro, with many others showing interest but facing cost barriers. According to research by Leger Healthcare, over half of the respondents using these drugs reported reduced appetite, while 40% noted decreased food cravings. These effects are influencing the spending habits of GLP-1 users, with around 30% dining out or ordering takeout less frequently.
The study highlighted a shift in consumer behavior, with a third of participants opting for more fresh produce, vegetables, and protein-rich foods. Weight loss emerged as the primary motivation for using or considering GLP-1 drugs, followed by diabetes management. Notably, 22% expressed interest in these medications for heart health reasons, with a higher proportion of men citing this compared to women.
Around 8% of respondents confirmed their current use of prescription GLP-1 medications. Extrapolating this data based on the adult population figures for 2025, Leger Healthcare estimated that this corresponds to roughly three million Canadian adults. Additionally, 6% of survey participants expressed a desire to try GLP-1 drugs but had not done so yet, potentially representing over two million Canadian adults.
In the U.S., the utilization of GLP-1 drugs was reported to be higher, with 11% of Americans surveyed disclosing their use of such medications. Furthermore, Americans showed double the interest compared to Canadians, with 12% expressing curiosity about these drugs. In Canada, more than half of potential users believed that insurance coverage or cheaper generic alternatives could influence their decision.
Melicent Lavers-Sailly, the vice president of research at Leger Healthcare, emphasized that GLP-1 medications have transitioned from a niche health topic to a mainstream consumer and healthcare focus. The impact of these drugs is not solely reflected in prescriptions but also in consumer spending patterns and behaviors.
Moreover, the survey revealed that GLP-1 usage is altering individuals’ purchasing habits beyond grocery items, leading to increased spending on clothing, personal care products, beauty services, and fitness-related expenses. While cost and insurance coverage posed obstacles for half of those interested in GLP-1 drugs, another 36% indicated they would consider the medication if the risk of side effects was lower.
Although some users experience gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and constipation, severe complications such as gall bladder inflammation and pancreatitis are rare. The majority of side effects are deemed minor by medical professionals.
The study’s findings were based on an online survey conducted by Leger Healthcare, involving 1,536 Canadian and 1,012 American adults aged 18 and above from February 6 to 9. Notably, due to the nature of online surveys, CBC News cannot provide an exact margin of error. However, for comparative purposes, a probability sample of the Canadian respondents would yield a margin of error of +/-2.49%, while the U.S. sample would have an approximate margin of error of +/-3.1%.
This content is supported by Canadian Press health coverage in partnership with the Canadian Medical Association, with CP being solely responsible for the information presented.
