In a recent New York Times article, Gina Kolata explores a striking trend in modern medicine: physicians, particularly in cardiology and endocrinology, are increasingly turning to GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound—not just for their patients, but for themselves. The piece highlights how these medications, initially designed to manage diabetes, are now being embraced by medical professionals for weight management and overall metabolic health.
One of the most personal and compelling perspectives in the article comes from our long-time colleague, Prof. John Buse of the University of North Carolina. A towering figure in diabetes research, John has openly shared his lifelong struggle with weight and the profound impact these new therapies have had on his health. He describes his experience with Wegovy, which helped him shed 25% of his body weight and maintain a steady, healthier balance—something that traditional dieting never allowed. His story resonates deeply with countless individuals facing similar challenges.
As the article notes, there is a growing acknowledgment that these medications are not just about aesthetics—they are about health, longevity, and reducing cardiovascular risk. The medical community is often an early adopter of breakthrough treatments, and the parallels drawn between the rise of GLP-1 agonists and the introduction of statinsdecades ago are apt. Just as cardiologists were among the first to recognize and prescribe cholesterol-lowering therapies, they are now at the forefront of using and advocating for these new weight-loss medications.
At conferences and meetings, as Kolata describes, doctors now recognize each other’s silent participation in this shift—pushing away plates at dinner, sharing a quiet understanding of how these drugs have reshaped their lives. The adoption of these treatments is not without controversy, particularly regarding accessibility, cost, and long-term effects, but the trajectory is clear: this is a transformative moment in metabolic medicine.
With over 120 new agents in development, as cardiologist Dr. C. Michael Gibson points out, the field is only beginning to evolve. The next generation of these therapies will likely refine their safety profiles and effectiveness, making them even more accessible and impactful.
For now, as John Buse and many of his colleagues have demonstrated, these medications are offering new hope—not just for patients, but for the very physicians who have long been on the frontlines of treating metabolic disease.
As always, our gratitude goes to Gina Kolata for her thoughtful reporting and to John Buse for his candor and leadership in this field.
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