Doctors, Patients Push Back Against Trump's 'Fat Drugs' Label for GLP-1 Medications

Former President Donald Trump has frequently referred to GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, as "fat shots" or "fat drugs." This terminology has drawn criticism from healthcare professionals and patients who argue that such language is not only insensitive but also stigmatizing and misrepresents the broad medical benefits of these drugs.

The usage of GLP-1s has surged, with 11% of American adults reporting taking them, a significant increase from 3% previously. Originally approved for Type 2 diabetes, these medications are also prescribed to treat obesity, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Many medical professionals and users consider them "miracle workers" for their multifaceted health improvements.

Trump's repeated use of terms like "fat drug" has sparked concern. While he has also advocated for lowering the cost of these medications, his choice of words is viewed by some as perpetuating negative stereotypes.

Stigmatizing Language and Missed Benefits

Healthcare providers argue that framing GLP-1s solely as "fat drugs" is "fatphobic" and diminishes their importance in treating serious health conditions. Dr. Eric Burnett, an internal medicine doctor, expressed that while Trump's language is not surprising given his history of using stigmatizing rhetoric, his greater concern is the government's inconsistent coverage of these medications through programs like Medicaid. He suggests focusing legislative efforts on ensuring access rather than on dismissive labeling.

Kylie Pomaikaiokalani noted that the "fat shots" framing ignores the drugs' original approvals for Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance, as well as their efficacy in treating conditions like sleep apnea and improving cardiovascular health. This simplification, she stated, risks portraying them as vanity drugs rather than essential treatments for medical conditions.

Dr. Elizabeth Kazarian, an obesity medicine physician, acknowledged Trump's efforts to reduce GLP-1 prices but criticized his insensitive language. She believes his remarks, similar to his past mockery of people with disabilities, propagate shame and stigma among a population already facing societal marginalization.

A Public Health Issue

Dr. Oni Blackstock, founder of Health Justice, a racial and health equity consulting company, stated that Trump's casual use of stigmatizing terms reflects how normalized fatphobia is. She argued that this framing reinforces the idea of obesity as a moral failing rather than a complex public health crisis influenced by structural factors like food deserts, urban planning, and socioeconomic disparities. Minimizing obesity with such nicknames, she contended, mischaracterizes a serious issue rooted in systemic conditions.

Patients also voiced their frustration. Cindy Mello, whose husband takes a GLP-1 for diabetes, stated, "I don’t give a f**k what that idiot says about them or anything else." She emphasized that obesity is a complex disease and GLP-1s are life-saving for many.

Krysta Berning Nunn, who uses a GLP-1 for PCOS and fatty liver disease, found unexpected benefits in reduced inflammation from endometriosis. She believes Trump's "inflammatory" remarks contribute to a culture of shame around a medication that has been life-changing for her and others with autoimmune conditions.

Personal Triumphs and Broader Impacts

Other patients shared their positive experiences, emphasizing that these medications are not an easy fix. Heather McClary Philpot lost over 130 pounds in 22 months with a GLP-1 after other methods failed. She stressed that the medications work best in conjunction with diet and exercise and are not a "quick fix."

Jennifer J. Beard, also using a GLP-1, stated, "I don’t care what anyone calls it. If I let WORDS affect me, I’d stay bothered, and who has time for that?" She highlighted the necessity of changing eating habits entirely and countered the notion that diet and exercise alone are sufficient for everyone, emphasizing that weight loss is not one-size-fits-all.

Amanda Brown-Mini commented that Trump is "uninformed on this issue like he is on others," noting that GLP-1s treat a wide range of conditions beyond just weight loss.

Despite the controversy surrounding the terminology, the consensus among users and many medical professionals is that GLP-1 medications offer significant health benefits and have been transformative for many individuals. The ongoing discussion highlights the tension between political rhetoric and the real-world impact of medical advancements on patient well-being and societal perceptions of health conditions.