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Helping Americans lose weight has long been a moneymaker. But recently companies have started marketing new drugs, new devices, and new services that might benefit many more people. Here’s how they are positioning themselves to profit and what consumers need to know.

A photo shows a pharmaceutical manufacturer filling capsules with medicine.

New Generation of Weight Loss Medications Offer Promise — But at a Price

People now have at their disposal more medicines that are effective at reducing weight, but none can counter obesity alone. One big problem: Insurance coverage remains spotty, and the costly drugs may be needed long term.

By Julie Appleby

Oct. 13, 2022

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Waistlines and Bottom Lines

Patients Complain Some Obesity Care Startups Offer Pills, and Not Much Else

A new wave of obesity care startups offer access to new weight loss medications. But do they offer good health care?

By Darius Tahir

Nov. 15, 2022
Waistlines and Bottom Lines

Weight Loss Gadgets: They Provide Data to Help Consumers Achieve Diet Goals, but It Still Won’t Be Easy

You may have seen the ads that promise weight loss and better health — phone apps, rings, and other devices — by giving you data on how your body reacts to food, exercise, and sleep. Is this information enough to help consumers achieve their goals?

By Hannah Norman

Oct. 14, 2022
Waistlines and Bottom Lines

BMI: The Mismeasure of Weight and the Mistreatment of Obesity

The human body mass index — a simple mathematical equation — is tied to a measure of obesity invented almost 200 years ago. On the downside, it can stand between patients and treatment for weight issues. It particularly mismeasures Black women and Asians.

By Julie Appleby

Oct. 12, 2022
Waistlines and Bottom Lines

New Weight Loss Treatment Is Marked by Heavy Marketing and Modest Results

Approved as a device, not a drug, Plenity contains a plant-based gel that swells to fill 25% of a person’s stomach, to help people eat less. Results vary widely but are modest on average.

By Julie Appleby

June 22, 2022
Waistlines and Bottom Lines

Diabetes Drug’s New Weight Loss Formula Fuels Cost-Benefit Debate

Health plans’ coverage of the medication, branded as Wegovy — which has a $1,300-a-month price tag — is not a sure thing.

By Julie Appleby

July 30, 2021

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New Generation of Weight Loss Medications Offer Promise — But at a Price