What is the average age of Ozempic users?

Oct 30, 2025 2 min read •

senior care Health Healthy Aging

Recent surveys and clinical data show that while Ozempic has a wide user base, the average age of Ozempic users is typically found among middle-aged adults, particularly those between 40 and 64. This demographic is most likely to be prescribed the medication for its FDA-approved uses in managing type 2 diabetes.

Quick Summary

The average age of Ozempic users is generally middle-aged, spanning roughly 40 to 64, driven largely by its use for type 2 diabetes, though a notable increase in younger adults using it for off-label weight loss has occurred recently.

Key Points

Mean Age Varies: The average age of Ozempic users depends heavily on whether it's prescribed for its intended purpose (type 2 diabetes) or off-label for weight loss.
Diabetes Users Skew Older: Data on those using Ozempic for diabetes often shows a median age in the mid-50s to 60s.
Weight Loss Users Skew Younger: Studies focusing on off-label use for obesity show a lower average age, sometimes in the late 40s, and a significant increase among young adults.
Gender Plays a Role: Women, particularly in the 50-64 age bracket, show some of the highest usage rates for GLP-1 drugs, including Ozempic.
Age-Related Cautions: Use in adults over 60 requires careful consideration by medical professionals due to less available data.
Demographics are Shifting: Trends show a rapid increase in use among younger populations (adolescents and young adults) for weight loss, shifting the overall demographic profile.

Understanding the Demographics of Ozempic Users

The average age of Ozempic users is not a single number due to the diverse reasons people use it, including type 2 diabetes treatment and off-label weight loss. This section explores the varying demographics based on these factors.

The Typical User Profile for Type 2 Diabetes

When prescribed for type 2 diabetes, Ozempic users tend to be older. A UK study of injectable semaglutide users found a mean age of 58.9 years.

The Impact of Off-Label Weight Loss Use

Off-label use for weight loss has shifted the overall user demographic to be younger. Reports highlight a rise in use among younger adults and adolescents, particularly women aged 12-25. A study on semaglutide for obesity found a mean age of 48.8 years.

Trends by Gender and Comorbidity

Recent surveys provide additional demographic details. A May 2025 report indicated that GLP-1 usage, including Ozempic, was most common among individuals aged 50-64, with the highest rates in women of that age group. The study also found that 62% of GLP-1 users were treating a chronic condition, while 38% used it solely for weight loss. Younger women, aged 18-25, have also shown a significant increase in use for weight loss.

Age-Specific Considerations and Cautions

Specific considerations apply to different age groups. Healthcare professionals may exercise more caution when prescribing Ozempic to adults over 60, as data on its effects in this specific population is limited. Younger users might encounter challenges related to insurance coverage and side effects.

Comparing User Profiles


Characteristic	Typical Type 2 Diabetes User	Off-Label Weight Loss User
Average Age	Often 50s and older, median may be higher	Younger, with mean ages around 40-50
Primary Indication	Blood sugar control, cardiovascular risk reduction	Weight management, obesity treatment
Gender Trends	Varies, but older women are a notable group	Often skews female, especially among young adults
Comorbidities	High prevalence of heart disease, kidney issues	Often includes obesity, sometimes high blood pressure or cholesterol
Key Motivation	Managing a chronic disease for long-term health	Achieving significant weight reduction

The Role of Social and Market Factors

Social and market influences also shape the Ozempic user base. The medication's visibility on social media has increased awareness, particularly among younger individuals. However, the cost of Ozempic without insurance remains a significant hurdle. Changes in insurance policies also impact the demographics of users.

Conclusion

The average age of Ozempic users varies based on the reason for use. While those with type 2 diabetes are typically middle-aged or older, off-label weight loss use is increasing among younger adults, leading to a broader demographic range.

Frequently Asked Questions

For its FDA-approved use in type 2 diabetes, the age range of Ozempic users is often older, with studies showing median ages typically in the mid-50s to early 60s.

Off-label use for weight loss has brought down the overall average age, as studies and prescribing trends show a notable increase in use among younger adults, including those in their 20s and 30s.

Yes, while both contain semaglutide, Ozempic is for diabetes (often older users) and Wegovy is specifically approved for weight loss (catering to a younger, weight-conscious demographic). However, off-label use of Ozempic blurs this distinction.

Yes, a portion of the user base is over 65, particularly those managing long-standing type 2 diabetes. However, health professionals often proceed with caution in this age group due to limited data on age-specific risks.

Research indicates that women, particularly between the ages of 50 and 64, show some of the highest rates of GLP-1 drug use. Trends also suggest a higher rate of use among younger women for weight loss.

Social media has increased awareness and interest in Ozempic for weight loss, particularly among tech-savvy younger generations (Gen Z and Millennials), which influences and often lowers the perceived average age of users.

Yes, demographic trends can vary by country due to differences in healthcare systems, insurance coverage, and prescribing habits. Information from Denmark showed variations in the median age of new Ozempic users.

References

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health decisions.