The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services projects a 12% increase in Medicare Part D premiums for 2027, driven largely by the explosive demand for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro.

The Numbers

Medicare spent $24 billion on GLP-1 drugs in 2025, up from $5 billion in 2023. The projected 2026 spend exceeds $35 billion as eligibility criteria expand and more beneficiaries seek prescriptions.

Political Fallout

Congressional leaders from both parties are calling for price negotiations, with some proposing caps on Medicare drug spending. Pharmaceutical companies defend pricing citing R&D costs.