PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1887164
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1887164
The global GLP-1 receptor agonist market is witnessing exceptional expansion driven by rising cases of diabetes, increasing obesity prevalence, and strong uptake of next-generation GLP-1 therapies. According to the Fortune Business Insights report, the market was valued at USD 52.08 billion in 2024, is projected to rise to USD 62.83 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 186.64 billion by 2032, registering a CAGR of 16.8% over the forecast period. This significant acceleration reflects the global shift toward advanced metabolic disorder treatments and the growing acceptance of GLP-1 drugs for their dual benefits-blood glucose control and weight reduction.
Market Insights and Drivers
GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the human glucagon-like peptide-1 hormone, improving glycemic control, stimulating insulin secretion, and supporting long-term weight management. Their widespread adoption stems from increasing global prevalence of type 2 diabetes and obesity. As per international health bodies, type 2 diabetes affects over 10% of the global adult population, and obesity continues to grow at alarming rates. Because GLP-1 drugs target both conditions simultaneously, their demand has surged sharply across major healthcare markets.
In addition, major pharmaceutical players such as Novo Nordisk A/S, Eli Lilly and Company, AstraZeneca, and Sanofi continue to advance GLP-1 formulations, including once-weekly injectables, high-dose variations, oral GLP-1 options, and combination therapies. Innovations in delivery systems and the growing emphasis on personalized therapy are further supporting market expansion.
Regional Market Highlights
North America dominated the global GLP-1 receptor agonist market in 2024, accounting for 55.51% of total market share. The region's market value stood at USD 28.91 billion in 2024, driven by high obesity and diabetes rates, advanced treatment infrastructure, and strong pharmaceutical R&D investments. The United States remains the largest contributor, strengthened by large-scale manufacturing expansions for GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Rybelsus.
Europe represents the second-largest market, supported by the presence of leading pharmaceutical manufacturers, rising clinical research activities, and increasing adoption of GLP-1 therapies for both diabetes and obesity. Meanwhile, Asia Pacific is experiencing rapid growth due to rising lifestyle-related diseases, expanding healthcare access, and growing awareness of modern metabolic therapies. Countries such as China and Japan are increasingly integrating GLP-1 drugs into clinical practice.
Market Trends and Restraints
A major trend shaping the market is the integration of AI and digital health tools that guide treatment selection and optimize patient outcomes. AI-based platforms are increasingly being used to predict which GLP-1 therapy will deliver the best efficacy for specific patient profiles.
However, market growth faces restraints, primarily the high cost of GLP-1 receptor agonists. Monthly treatment costs in the U.S. average around USD 1,000, making long-term therapy challenging for many patients. The limited availability of generics and supply shortages-due to overwhelming global demand-pose additional barriers. Despite these challenges, manufacturing expansions by leading companies are expected to reduce shortages in the coming years.
By drug type, semaglutide held the largest share in 2024 and continues to dominate due to its strong efficacy, once-weekly injection schedule, and availability in both injectable (Ozempic, Wegovy) and oral (Rybelsus) forms. Exenatide and liraglutide also remain widely used, while newer agents such as tirzepatide are seeing rapid growth.
By age group, adults accounted for the majority of usage in 2024, reflecting the high global incidence of adult-onset type 2 diabetes and obesity. Pediatric use of GLP-1 drugs is increasing due to new approvals for adolescent obesity treatment.
By route of administration, parenteral GLP-1 agonists dominated in 2024, though oral formulations are growing quickly due to patient preference for non-injectable therapies.
Conclusion
The GLP-1 receptor agonist market is set for strong long-term expansion, rising from USD 52.08 billion in 2024 to USD 186.64 billion by 2032. As obesity and diabetes rates surge globally, and as GLP-1 therapies gain broader approval for multiple indications, the demand for advanced metabolic treatments will continue to accelerate. The presence of established players and active product pipelines ensures that the market remains highly competitive and innovation-driven.
Segmentation By Drug
By Route of Administration
By Age Group
By Indication
By Distribution Channel
By Geography