GLP-1 medications are changing the landscape of obesity treatment, but they also represent a challenge for employers facing growing demand for coverage. The solutions are multifactorial—and go beyond the medication alone.
As reported earlier this year by Take 5, the average annual cost for Wegovy, currently the most popular brand-name weight loss drug, is about $5,000. The math becomes daunting when you consider the potential patient population: 30 per cent of Canadians have obesity and are theoretically eligible for the drug, and another 36 per cent are overweight and may be eligible.
The first generic for Wegovy, called Sevmia, will help answer the affordability question, but supply issues are delaying its availability. Even when it and other generics arrive on pharmacy shelves, will the expected upsurge in demand overshadow the advantage of its lower price point?
By now, most plan sponsors have worked with their benefits advisor and insurance provider to determine what their plan does or does not cover for weight loss, likely supported by prior authorization to ensure appropriate access. But what happens after plan members start taking a covered GLP-1 for weight loss? How can plan sponsors ensure they are getting the most value for their investment?
Even setting aside the question of coverage, how can employers support employees who are taking a GLP-1 to reap the benefits of a healthier, more productive workforce?
The answer begins with the recognition that the drug is only part of the journey.
Connecting the pieces of care
“GLP-1 medications can be an effective part of a weight management journey, but the best outcomes often come when they’re combined with healthy habits, including balanced nutrition, regular physical activity and ongoing support,” says Jasdave Singh, Senior Manager of Pharmacy Programs at Rexall. “It’s about creating a sustainable approach that helps individuals achieve their health goals while supporting their overall well-being.”
Rexall’s multidisciplinary weight management program began as a pilot in Ontario in January 2026 and subsequently expanded across Canada, with the exception of Quebec. The program connects patients with physicians, pharmacists and dietitians to develop and support personalized weight management plans.
Patients begin with an introductory call before booking a virtual physician consultation, which may include laboratory testing and an assessment of whether medication is appropriate. Those prescribed treatment receive medication counselling and ongoing support from pharmacists, while dietitians help address nutrition and lifestyle needs.
“The physician may be the one that starts the therapy, but the pharmacist will continue the support and answer any questions,” says Singh, noting that the program also supports individuals already on a weight-loss journey, whether or not they are taking medications.
Early feedback from patients and physician partners has been encouraging, says Singh. Patients appreciate the structure and flow of the program, and credit the coordinated approach with helping them concentrate on their health goals. “With the help of my doctor, dietitian, the Rexall pharmacist, and Rexall’s Patient Contact Centre, I’ve felt supported throughout my journey,” wrote one patient.
The program helps overcome one of the biggest challenges, notes Singh, which is the misconception that obesity can be treated as a short-term condition. As a result, patients may discontinue medication once they’ve achieved their initial weight-loss goals, only to regain the weight they’ve lost. The reality is, like other chronic conditions, obesity may require the sustained use of medication. Maintaining a healthier lifestyle is also essential.
As well, patients may abandon treatment because of side effects or difficulties with self-injecting.
While GLP-1s are typically introduced at lower doses and gradually increased to help patients adjust, without counselling and support patients may become discouraged by the early side effects or uncertain about what to expect.
Singh says pharmacists can help patients administer the medication safely, manage common side effects and recognize when medical attention may be necessary. They can also reinforce the importance of nutrition and physical activity, particularly for maintaining adequate protein intake and muscle mass during weight loss.
Regular follow-up becomes especially important when patients reach a plateau or experience difficulties with treatment, he adds. Having different healthcare professionals involved throughout the process can help patients navigate those challenges and stay on track.
Beyond medication costs
For employers, supporting employees with weight management could mean fewer absences, improved productivity and a healthier workforce.
Given the increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and other health complications associated with obesity, employers have good reason to look beyond the cost of GLP-1 medications. Ensuring employees have access to ongoing support from licensed healthcare professionals may be as important as traditional plan-design measures such as prior authorization.
And that support doesn’t necessarily require an additional investment. Rexall’s program, for example, has no enrolment fee and all physician consultations, including the initial consultation and follow-ups, are generally covered by provincial health insurance for eligible patients. Consultations with dietitians and pharmacists are also available at no cost to the patient. Prescription drug coverage remains subject to individual plan criteria.
Photo credit: Diamond Dogs