Drug policy stories

Jun 29, 2026

Medicare Begins Covering GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs Through 18-Month Pilot Program

Starting July 1, 2026, Medicare will cover select GLP-1 weight loss medications for approximately $50 through a Trump administration pilot program, marking the first time the federal program has covered obesity drugs. The 18-month initiative raises concerns about potential drug shortages.

Jun 29, 2026·5 sources

May 13, 2026

U.S. Overdose Deaths Fall 14% in 2025 to Approximately 70,000

Preliminary government data shows about 70,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in 2025, representing a 14% decrease from the previous year, though experts express concerns about policy changes and drug supply shifts.

May 13, 2026·1 source

Apr 27, 2026

Trump Administration Warns Against Federal Funding for Fentanyl Test Strips

The Trump administration has issued guidance against using federal dollars on fentanyl test strips, marking a clear shift away from harm reduction practices in drug policy.

Apr 27, 2026·1 source

Top claims

▪Healthcare providers must submit prior authorization requests to Humana, which was contracted by CMS to process approvals for the Bridge program.
▪A 2022 study indicates that patients who stop taking Wegovy regain approximately two-thirds of their lost weight within one year.
▪Eli Lilly holds approximately 60% of the obesity drug market share, while Novo Nordisk holds 39% as of the first quarter of 2026.