Can Herbal Alternatives Ease the Economic Burden of Weight Loss Drugs?

Terns Pharmaceuticals is making headlines with promising early results from its experimental GLP-1 obesity drug, which led to a 5.5% reduction in body weight in a small study. Positioned as a potential oral alternative to popular injectable weight loss medications like Ozempic, this new drug may soon offer another option for those seeking medical interventions for obesity. With larger trials on the horizon, the excitement around pharmaceutical treatments for weight loss continues to grow.  

The economic impact of weight loss medications on healthcare systems  

Pharmaceutical treatments like Wegovy and Ozempic have demonstrated significant potential in reducing body weight, but their high costs pose challenges for both patients and the broader healthcare system. With prices reaching up to $1,349 per month for Wegovy and around $1,000 for Ozempic, access to these medications is often restricted to those with comprehensive insurance. Even for patients with insurance, out-of-pocket costs can still amount to hundreds of dollars monthly, creating a substantial financial burden for many.  

This cost barrier raises concerns about worsening health disparities, particularly among low-income and underserved populations. Medicaid and Medicare beneficiaries are far less likely to access these medications, as Medicare Part D typically does not cover weight-loss drugs unless the patient also has a chronic condition like heart disease. This lack of coverage leaves many patients without a traditional solution. 

In addition to the cost, the side effects of these drugs are another factor prompting some patients to seek alternative approaches. Common side effects of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy include nausea, diarrhea, and constipation, with more severe risks such as gallstones, thyroid complications, and even cancer in some cases. These potential health risks have spurred growing interest in more holistic approaches to weight management, with the U.S. alternative medicine industry experiencing significant growth — from $21.7 billion in 2013 to an estimated $30.6 billion in 2023.  

For employers and insurers, the rising popularity of weight-loss treatments also has financial implications. As companies consider offering coverage for these high-cost medications, they must balance short-term expenses with potential long-term savings from treating obesity-related conditions. For some organizations, incorporating more cost-effective options, such as herbal supplements, into employee benefit plans may provide a viable solution, particularly given the growing demand for natural health products.  

The role of herbs for weight loss  

The science behind herbal remedies for weight management is still evolving. While pharmaceutical options like Ozempic have undergone rigorous clinical trials and are backed by strong evidence, herbal alternatives lack the same level of scientific scrutiny. However, early research suggests that certain herbs may provide metabolic benefits. Adaptogens, a class of herbs gaining attention, offer a unique approach to supporting the body through stress.   

Adaptogens are known for their ability to help the body adapt to various stressors — be they physical, chemical, or biological. Although they are not specifically marketed as weight loss solutions, adaptogens can indirectly influence weight loss by addressing factors like hormonal imbalances and chronic stress. For example, prolonged stress triggers the production of cortisol, a hormone associated with fat accumulation, especially around the abdomen. By helping to regulate cortisol levels, adaptogens like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil promote hormonal balance, which may contribute to weight management as a secondary benefit.  

In addition to managing cortisol, studies suggest that adaptogens may activate genes that protect cells from damage during stress, further supporting overall bodily balance. While adaptogens are not a direct solution for weight loss, their ability to reduce stress — one of the main contributors to weight gain — makes them an intriguing part of a holistic approach to weight management. 

Berberine-rich herbs have also been gaining attention in the weight loss arena, often referred to as “Nature’s Ozempic” due to their potential to support metabolic health. Herbs like barberry root bark, goldenseal root, and Oregon grape root are particularly noted for their berberine content. Studies highlight berberine’s ability to activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key regulator of glucose metabolism and fat breakdown. Despite its nickname, berberine functions differently from medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, which are GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs suppress appetite by slowing digestion and increasing insulin production. In contrast, berberine activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), an enzyme that plays a crucial role in regulating energy use and fat metabolism. However, while these findings are encouraging, further research is needed to confirm berberine’s long-term efficacy and safety for weight loss.  

Offering choices: the compassionate approach to patient care  

For patients who may be unable to afford the high cost of GLP-1 obesity drugs or are worried about the side effects, it’s important for healthcare providers to offer education on herbal alternatives and consider these as part of the broader treatment conversation. While herbal options may not produce the same clinical outcomes as pharmaceuticals like Wegovy or Ozempic, they can still serve as valuable components of a comprehensive weight management strategy, particularly for those seeking more accessible or lower-cost options.  

By presenting herbal treatments as complementary or supportive measures, providers empower patients to make informed, individualized choices that account for both health and financial considerations. This inclusive approach ensures that patients from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds can explore effective weight management solutions, even when high-cost medications may be out of reach.   

Photo: Hiranmay Baidya, Getty Images

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