The US Senator said GLP-1 drugs changed his life – and now he is seeking widespread access to anti-obesity drugs.
In the New York Times on April 8th, Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) wrote about his experiences with Murjaro (Tilzepatido).
Injectable prescription drugs are primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes.
The health benefits of Ozempic continue to increase, but are the risks worth it?
Fetterman was prescribed medication in July 2025.
“As Stroke survivorsI was interested in research showing research [Mounjaro] The Senator wrote, which was able to significantly reduce the risk of major cardiac events.
Senator John Fetterman, D-PA. walks to the Chamber of Commerce in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC on March 14, 2025. On OP-ED on April 8, the Pennsylvania Senator wrote about his experience with Murjaro (Tilzepatido). (Reuters)
“I started taking it for myself Heart healthI was impressed by how good it was and how I felt all along. It had a huge impact on my overall health,” he continued.
“The pain, pain, stiffness has disappeared. Physically, I’m 10 years younger and I feel more clear and optimistic for years. I’ve lost about 20 pounds when it comes to side effects.”
Research shows that genetic cholesterol eliminated by new drugs reduces risk of heart attacks
Beyond lowering blood glucose levels, as reported by Fox News Digital, GLP-1 drugs are also linked to a variety of other benefits, including improved heart health, neurological and metabolic function.
Eli Lilly, the maker of Mounjaro, also offers another version of the drug called Zepbound. Sleep apnea.
Other GLP-1 drugs include Ozempic, Wegovi, Viktoza, and Saxenda, all made by Novo Nordisk.
Senator Fetterman was filmed at the White House on January 29, 2025. “As a stroke survivor, I was interested in research. [Mounjaro] “The Senator wrote in OP-ED in April, which he was able to significantly reduce the risk of major cardiac events.” (Reuters)
Fetterman noted that GLP-1 drugs have been found to have beneficial effects on cholesterol, heart rate and heart inflammation.
“Recent research suggests they may help with curbs. Alcohol poisoning And it could support cognitive functioning and delay or prevent conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s,” he wrote in the Times Oped.
“Physically, I feel like I’m 10 years younger.
On Op-Ed, Fetterman called for increased access These drugsif not covered by insurance, you’ll be charged up to $1,000 from your pocket.
“Currently, Medicare only covers these drugs under certain circumstances, such as diabetes and increased heart risk,” he writes. “And Medicaid compensation is further limited.”
Fetterman added that she is not compensated for sharing her experiences.
Ozempic’s “Micro Doshing” is a new weight loss trend
“I’m someone who benefits from these drugs and wants to have access to them by others who can benefit from them,” he wrote.
While Fetterman shares HHS Sec. Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s view of prioritizing nutrition and healthy living said he believes that medicine is necessary for some.
Eli Lilly, the maker of Mounjaro, also offers another version of the drug called Zepbound. This is the same drug approved for weight loss, chronic weight management and sleep apnea. (istock)
“I totally agree with that meal and that Lifestyle issues – a lot. But food alone isn’t enough,” he wrote.
“For millions of Americans struggling with serious health issues, drug therapy could be an important first step towards regaining sufficient health to create meaningful lifestyle changes.”
Doctors discuss benefits and access
Dr. Marc Siegel, a senior medical analyst and professor of clinical medicine at Nyu Langone Health and Fox News, said Semaglutides, including Ozempic and Wegovy, are “a very important medicine.” Type 2 diabetesthe use of obesity is increasing.
“Though these drugs appear to have beneficial uses for lowering the heart and lipid profile and the risk of brain and dementia, research is ongoing and more data is still needed,” he told Fox News Digital.
first Approach to obesity According to Siegel, there are lifestyle changes, including exercise, diet improvements and optimal sleep.
“That being said, these weight loss pills (including Zepbound) are also good tools if your lifestyle isn’t enough,” he pointed out.
Fetterman was prescribed Mounjaro for potential heart health benefits. (Getty Images)
“They can help prevent downline diseases such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and sleep apnea, which tend to come from obesity.”
He said, “Overall, we’re saving money from the healthcare system, so we hope Medicare and Medicaid will approve diabetes and those. Weight loss. ”
Click here to sign up for our health newsletter
Dr. Brett Osborne, a Florida neurologist and longevity expert, said that since 2019 he has been prescribing GLP-1 to patients.
“Mounjaro and his cousins are not just weight loss tools, they are metabolic reset buttons,” he told Fox News Digital.
Beyond lowering blood glucose levels, GLP-1 drugs are also associated with a variety of other benefits, including improving heart health, neurological function and metabolic health. (istock)
“People with metabolic syndrome don’t need the importance of kale lectures and exercise. They need help.”
Osborne agreed that lifestyle is essential, but “it’s rarely enough.”
“The GLP-1 gives patients momentum by rolling the ball,” he said. “And when that happens, healthy habits are formed. Food improves. Movement improves. People begin to feel the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.”
Visit us for more health articles www.foxnews.com/health
Osborne noted that these drugs are therapeutic, not cosmetic.
“I’ve seen what they can do directly: decrease in body fat, inflammation, glucose, triglycerides, and insulin resistance, along with them, a significant reduction in the incidence of stroke and heart attacks.”
“I think this is a signal that directs Big Pharma straight ahead.”
President Donald Trump’s administration recently announced that Medicare and Medicaid will not cover the drugs, as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services said late Friday.
Osborne said the movement to block coverage is likely not related to effectiveness.
“Trump knows these drugs work,” Osborne said. “I think this is a signal that directs Big Pharma head-on. “We’re either lowering prices or Medicare is out, the biggest buyer in the block.”
Click here to get the Fox News app
“This is not a fire, it’s leverage,” Osborne said.
“President Trump is likely to negotiate until “prices are right,” making it easier for big pharmaceuticals while simultaneously improving American health. ”
