Ozempic, a semaglutide GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) originally developed as an anti-diabetic medication, has become a powerful weight-loss drug that functions by curbing appetites and altering impulse control. However, beyond its health benefits, its widespread use is triggering shifts in multiple industries. Some health economists are calling Ozempic the new economic earthquake that could reshape spending habits and redefine consumer behavior.

One of the biggest shocks of the GLP-1 revolution is its effect on industries built on impulse consumption that thrive on addiction or instant gratification. Fast food giants who have long profited from impulsive cravings, may see demand for high-calorie processed foods plummet as autonomous spending on habitual consumption declines. In fact, some corporations have already acknowledged this shift, with PepsiCo and Modelez strategizing to introduce lower-calorie and high-protein alternatives to retain customers. Similarly, alcohol and recreational drug usage may decline as GLP-1 drugs dampen reward-seeking behaviors.

Another growing question is the healthcare ripple effect, where the pharmaceutical industry may face a paradox. If obesity rates decline, demand for cholesterol drugs, for instance, could shrink, forcing pivots in pharmaceutical companies' R&D. However, this could also mean a boost in labor productivity, creating a positive externality for GDP growth.

Finally, a lifestyle shift can be envisioned, where food no longer becomes the center of all socializing. This induces more consumers to redirect their disposable income towards experiences and entertainment, alongside a higher demand for fitness and wellness. This shift towards durable goods may mean a rising marginal propensity to save on discretionary goods, altering long-term consumer behavior.

While the long-term effects of GLP-1 drugs on the economy are still unfolding, one thing is clear: we may be witnessing one of the biggest economic shifts in modern history, where entire industries may have to adapt to a world where impulse-driven consumerism declines. Whether this leads to a healthier, wealthier society or an unintended economic disruption remains to be seen.

References:

Dominguez, Liz. “PepsiCo, Hershey, Mondelez Say Mindful Snacking on Trend as Consumers Prioritize Health & Wellness.” Consumer Goods Technology, 7 Feb. 2025, consumergoods.com/pepsico-hershey-mondelez-say-mindful-snacking-trend-consumers-prioritize-health-wellness. Accessed 14 Mar. 2025.

Gagne, Todd. “The $100 Trillion Disruption: The Unforeseen Economic Earthquake.” Wildfire Labs Substack, 21 Nov. 2024, wildfirelabs.substack.com/p/the-100-trillion-disruption-the-unforeseen. Accessed 14 Mar. 2025.


Rampell, Catherine. “Ozempic economics: How GLP-1s will disrupt the economy in 2025.” Washington Post, 31 Dec. 2024, www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2024/12/31/ozempic-weight-loss-economy-2025/. Accessed 14 Mar. 2025.

“The economics of thinness (Ozempic edition).” The Economist, 24 Oct. 2024, www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2024/10/24/the-economics-of-thinness-ozempic-edition. Accessed 14 Mar. 2025.