GLP-1 Drug Waste and Supplement Market Growth Amid Rising Ozempic Use

As demand for glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), and GLP-1 and glucose dependent insulinotropic polypeptide agonists like tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound), surges so do fears that the millions of pre-filled plastic pens they're dispensed in are contaminating water and soil. As many as six million used pens may be improperly dumped each year in the UK alone, which is equivalent to 96 tonnes of plastic.

The US almost exclusively uses single dose pens. One pen has one dose in it, and it's used once and thrown away. Whereas a lot of Europe are using a multidose pen. Pre-filled pens are more user friendly and allow for treatment at home without the guidance of a doctor or a nurse.

Treatment at home can, however, lead to incorrect disposal. In hospital or other medical settings, training is provided on the disposal of clinical waste, meaning it's more likely to be done correctly. By contrast, the public using weight loss pens at home don't have the same access to guidance and disposal methods. Used pre-filled pens are classified as clinical waste and must be disposed of in sharps containers that are puncture resistant.

The rise of GLP-1 receptor agonists has opened the door for innovation in the US$200 billion supplement and nutraceutical industry. As the accessibility of drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy increases, users are eating less and discovering the biological effects of rapid weight loss. Though the medication may potentially save lives, it can also reduce lean muscle mass, induce nutrient deficiencies, and significantly slow the digestive system.

Data suggests that products making GLP-1-related claims have risen 124% CAGR over the past five years, with North America making up the majority (83%) of that growth. Research shows 74% of users feel fuller faster, while 73% prioritize portion control. Importantly, 69% say they now value nutrition more, driving demand for specialized protein shakes, bars, and supplements tailored to their needs.

Studies show that GLP-1 users eat around 20% less, yet calorie distribution — including from protein — often falls short, leaving gaps in essential micronutrients. As a result, the body may lack the nutritional building blocks needed to preserve muscle during rapid weight loss.

The introduction of oral semaglutide could make the medication even more mainstream. Wider availability means that brands should widen their focus toward supporting customers throughout their extended journeys — from starting medication through establishing habits and sustaining long-term results.

Over the next three to five years, demand is anticipated to increase for ingredients that help brands create complementary and supportive solutions, rather than products positioned as alternatives to prescription therapy. This includes formulations that support satiety signaling, metabolic health, and ensure daily consistency, as well as products designed to integrate seamlessly alongside GLP-1 use without adding unnecessary complexity or tolerability issues.

Nutritional ingredient suppliers will shift focus to support companion products that are high in protein, fiber, and fortified with nutrients to help manage side effects of reduced caloric intake, such as muscle loss and digestive issues. Demand for ingredients will move from weight loss to supporting the overall health of the GLP-1 user.

Proteins like whey and casein support muscle maintenance and boost satiety during and after treatment. Moreover, as these medications become more widely available, the number of people facing these and other common side effects will also likely increase. Ingredients that support gut health, including prebiotic fibers and fermented solutions, can help users manage discomfort.