Use and informal access to GLP-1 receptor agonists in Switzerland: a national survey

Abstract Background Use of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists for weight management is increasing, but population-level data on uptake and access pathways remain limited. This study investigated prevalence in Switzerland, associated factors, and characteristics of formal, and informal access users. Methods A nationally representative cross-sectional survey of the Swiss population was performed using a probabilistic sampling design with survey weights. Between March and June 2025, 5,818 residents aged ≥ 15 years were surveyed, representing 7.43 million individuals nationally. Self-reported GLP-1 receptor agonist use, indications, access pathways, and sociodemographic and weight-related characteristics were collected. Multivariable models estimated national prevalence and identify factors independently associated with use and informal access. Results In weighted analyses, 2.5% (95% CI 2.1-3.0) of respondents, corresponding to approximately 185,000 individuals nationally, reported GLP-1 receptor agonist use, most commonly semaglutide, primarily for weight loss. Use was independently associated with age, body mass index (BMI) category, and self-reported weight status. Compared with participants reporting normal weight, higher odds were observed among those reporting important overweight (OR 6.94, 95% CI 3.01–16.02) and among those with BMI ≥ 35 kg/m² (OR 8.54, 95% CI 4.34–16.81). Gender was not associated with use. Among users, 7.3% (> 13,500 individuals nationally) reported obtaining medication at least once outside physician-led prescribing pathways or passing it forwards to family and friends. These individuals were younger, more likely to be single and to report normal weight. Conclusions GLP-1 receptor agonist use in Switzerland is patterned by both BMI and perceived weight. Informal access, particularly among younger adults with lower BMI, warrants clinical and policy attention.