A recent survey has revealed a fascinating trend among Canadian adults, with an estimated three million individuals turning to GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro. But here's where it gets controversial: many more Canadians are interested in these medications, but the high cost is a significant barrier.
The survey, conducted by Leger Healthcare, found that over half of the participants taking GLP-1 drugs reported a decreased appetite, and a notable 40% experienced reduced food cravings. These effects have a ripple impact on spending habits, with approximately 30% of GLP-1 users dining out or ordering takeout less frequently.
And this is the part most people miss: the survey also revealed that GLP-1 users are making healthier food choices. About a third of them are increasing their intake of fresh produce and protein-rich foods. It's not just about weight loss; diabetes management is also a significant driver for GLP-1 use, according to the survey.
The findings suggest that GLP-1 medications are reshaping not only eating habits but also spending patterns. With weight loss as the primary motivator, followed closely by diabetes management, it's no surprise that the demand for these drugs is high.
However, the cost of GLP-1 medications is a significant concern. Eight percent of respondents reported taking a prescription GLP-1, and an additional six percent expressed interest but were deterred by the cost. This highlights a potential gap in access to healthcare, especially considering that GLP-1 use is even higher in the U.S., where 11% of surveyed Americans reported taking the medication.
The survey also delved into the reasons behind the interest in GLP-1 medications. More than half of the Canadians interested in taking the medication cited insurance coverage or lower-cost generic options as factors that would influence their decision. This underscores the importance of affordable healthcare options and the potential impact on consumer behavior.
Melicent Lavers-Sailly, vice-president of research at Leger Healthcare, emphasized the significance of these findings: "GLP-1s are no longer a niche health topic; they've become a mainstream consumer and healthcare story. The research shows that the impact of GLP-1s extends beyond prescriptions, influencing shopping habits and behaviors."
In addition to dining out less, about 35% of GLP-1 users reported making conscious choices like ordering smaller portions, opting for healthier options, or not finishing their meals. Furthermore, 36% reported a decrease in alcohol consumption.
The survey also highlighted the impact of GLP-1 use on non-grocery spending, with increased expenditures on clothing, personal care products, beauty services, and fitness.
While lack of insurance coverage and cost are significant barriers, another 36% of respondents interested in GLP-1s cited concerns about side effects. Some users experience gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea, while more severe complications like gall bladder inflammation and pancreatitis are also possible, although rare.
The survey findings estimate that approximately two million Canadian adults are interested in taking GLP-1 medications but are currently not doing so due to various barriers.
Fifty-eight percent of those taking or considering GLP-1 drugs cited weight loss as their primary motivator, while 42% named diabetes management. Interestingly, 22% expressed interest in GLP-1s for heart health, with men more likely than women to cite this reason.
The survey also revealed that a quarter of GLP-1 users are paying for the medications out of pocket, with costs potentially reaching hundreds of dollars monthly. For 28% of users, the medication is fully covered by private or public insurance plans, while almost half reported having partial insurance coverage.
Leger Healthcare conducted the online survey with 1,536 Canadians and 1,012 Americans aged 18 and over from February 6 to 9, 2026. The Canadian Research Insights Council notes that online surveys cannot be assigned a margin of error due to their non-random sampling nature.
This report, originally published by The Canadian Press on March 3, 2026, is supported by a partnership with the Canadian Medical Association.
