© 2025 Iowa Public Radio
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Weight-loss drugs are seen to have many benefits, but patients who need them most struggle to afford them

Ways To Subscribe
Talk of Iowa, hosted by Charity Nebbe

Medications like Trulicity, Ozempic and Rybelsus help those with Type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels. They're also being used for weight loss, and are believed to have other health benefits.

GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Trulicity were first approved by the FDA for treating Type 2 diabetes. But many Americans are seeking these medications for weight loss, while navigating financial costs and shortages in supply.

Host Charity Nebbe talks with Zhen E. Rammelsberg, who has been prescribed three different GLP-1 drugs since she was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes a couple of years ago. She shares the side effects that have come with these medications, as well as weight loss, and feelings of body dysmorphia.

Then, Dr. Leon Jons of the University of Iowa's Weight Management Clinic shares more about these medications, and Kevin Kincaid of Knoxville Hospital and Clinics talks about the health inequities that exist between those who can and cannot afford these medications. As employers like Kincaid weigh offering GLP-1 coverage in their employee benefits plans, Dr. Jons is advising a pilot program with 500 UI employees to study the feasibility of a GLP-1 program.

Guests:

  • Zhen E. Rammelsburg, Marion resident
  • Dr. Leon Jons, MD, weight management specialist, UI Health Care
  • Kevin Kincaid, CEO, Knoxville Hospital and Clinics
Charity Nebbe is IPR's 'Talk of Iowa' host. She also hosts IPR's podcasts 'Garden Variety' and 'Unsettled'. Since 2010, Nebbe has interviewed, conversed with, and shared ideas from guests of all backgrounds and locations, and has helped listeners better understand, appreciate, and explore their state and the world around them. Nebbe has a bachelors degree from Iowa State University.
Samantha McIntosh is a talk show producer for Iowa Public Radio. She holds a bachelor's degree from St. Cloud State University. Since 2022, McIntosh has worked with IPR's talk team to bring news and features to IPR's listening audience.
Dani Gehr is a talk show producer for Iowa Public Radio. She holds a bachelor's degree from Iowa State University. Since 2022, Gehr has worked with IPR's talk team to bring news and features to IPR's listening audience.