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Increasingly, we’re learning of truly remarkable benefits from semaglutide drugs beyond weight loss. They can slash the risk of developing diabetes, prevent COVID deaths, and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Doctors that we know are borderline giddy about studies that show just how big an impact these drugs can have in terms of saving lives and preventing illness. For employers, it seems like a good investment to help prevent future claims - these drugs appear to cut the risk of all death. The effects are just beginning to be studied, too - future studies could look into whether they reduce risk for everything from knee replacements to sleep apnea to kidney disease, any of which might cost an employer significantly. The primary barrier to coverage is the cost, which is currently quite high - some can cost over $1000 per month without insurance. The number of employers covering these drugs for diabetes and weight loss is increasing dramatically year over year. If prices start to fall, as anticipated, this may become an easier decision for employers.
Sources: CNN, Washington Post, NY Times, SHRM
Some people report short-term but significant flu-like symptoms, including muscle aches and fever, after getting COVID vaccines. These usually only last a day or two but are an understandable barrier that may prevent someone from choosing to get vaccinated with the updated shot each year. If you’ve only ever received mRNA vaccines from Pfizer or Moderna, you might consider Novavax’s recently approved shot, which is shown to have fewer side effects like pain and muscle aches. Worth a shot (see what we did there?) to see if that helps. We know that these side effects aren’t fun, but especially if you’re at high risk or over 65 years old, they’re probably better than the impact that a real bout of COVID will have on your body.