These days, when it comes to weight loss in the U.S., Mounjaro and Wegovy are almost always mentioned.

Among the Korean community, there are many discussions like, "Does it really work?" and "I heard they just prescribe it in the U.S.?"

I've naturally become interested because so many people around me have been asking about it.

Both are obesity treatment injections that are administered once a week. They are said to reduce appetite, making you think about food less.

Unlike the old diet pills that made your heart race and kept you awake, people say it feels more like, "Oh? I'm not that hungry today?"

That's why many people in the U.S. are really seeking them out for weight loss.

Especially Mounjaro, which has been receiving explosive reactions in the U.S. lately. The reason is its weight loss effectiveness.

It not only works on GLP-1 but also on GIP, which seems to lead to significant weight loss, with many reports of people losing over 20% of their weight.

Wegovy is also known for its effectiveness, but it's usually said to result in about 15% weight loss.

People who have struggled to lose weight despite years of dieting and exercising are seeing noticeable reductions, which has greatly increased interest in the U.S.

However, the realistic issue is, of course, the cost. The U.S. healthcare system has significant differences based on insurance coverage.

If it's not covered by insurance, the prices can be quite burdensome.

Typically, Wegovy costs around $1,300 to $1,500 per month, Mounjaro around $1,000 to $1,300, and Ozempic is often mentioned at $900 to $1,200.

When you think about it in Korean currency, it amounts to over a million won each month, so it's honestly not something anyone can easily start.

So in the U.S., those with good employer insurance have the advantage. Some insurance plans cover obesity treatments, while others do not at all.

Many people also use manufacturer discount cards or coupon programs. Due to high demand, there are ongoing reports of medication shortages in various regions.

However, seeing this makes me feel a bit bittersweet. In the past, being well-fed and chubby was seen as a sign of wealth.

Now, it feels like the opposite is true. It seems that being slim is now associated with having money.

Those who can afford expensive injections, gym memberships, and diet management are the ones who can maintain their bodies.

Conversely, those who cannot afford these costs are struggling more with fast food and stress eating.

Honestly, it feels strange that body shape is increasingly reflecting economic disparities.

Still, in the U.S., access to these treatments is not as difficult as one might think.

With a large population of obese individuals, there are many weight management clinics.

Many people consult with family doctors, endocrinologists, and medical weight loss clinics.

In large cities like LA and New York, and even in many mid-sized cities, you can easily find related clinics.

However, telehealth prescriptions have become more stringent than before.

In the past, you could sometimes get a prescription after completing a few online surveys, but now more places are requiring in-person visits.

It's important to check weight, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels, and to monitor for side effects. There are quite a few reports of side effects like nausea, constipation, and stomach discomfort.

And there's a common misconception among people: "If I get the injection, I'll be slim for life, right?"

However, there are many cases where people have gained weight back after stopping the medication due to rebound effects.

Ultimately, while the medication reduces appetite, lifestyle changes must also be made, which isn't easy.

In the U.S. community, you often hear phrases like, "The medication is just a help, not magic."

Interestingly, there's a current atmosphere in the U.S. where people are not hiding the fact that they are using these medications.

In the past, people rarely talked about taking diet pills, but now it's common for colleagues to say things like, "I started Wegovy," or "I'm on Mounjaro."

In the end, using Wegovy or Mounjaro in the U.S. is not impossible. In fact, access is quicker than in Korea.

However, considering the costs, insurance, side effects, and maintenance expenses, it's definitely not a medication to start just because it's trendy.

Personally, I feel a bit bittersweet that being slim is increasingly linked to wealth.