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Study Finds GLP-1 Drug Users Took 17 Percent Less Long-Term Sick Leave in Denmark
Patients using GLP-1 medications took 17 percent less long-term sick leave than non-users in a Danish analysis published this month. The National Bureau of Economic Research study estimated average savings of $866 per worker. Findings point to potential productivity and cost effects for employers and governments.
Jul 21, 1:54 PM·1m read1 source
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A National Bureau of Economic Research study published this month found that patients using GLP-1 drugs took 17 percent less long-term sick leave than non-users. Long-term sick leave covers illness-related absences exceeding 30 days. CBS News reported the results from worker and medication data in Denmark.
GLP-1 drugs, sold under names including Ozempic and Wegovy, are prescribed for diabetes or obesity. The medications also reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. Jonathan Zhang, a study co-author and Duke University professor, told CBS News that such events would otherwise cause extended work absences.
The reduction equals savings of up to 1.5 percent of an individual's salary, or roughly $866 on average. In Denmark, employers pay full salaries for absences up to 30 days while the government covers longer periods. The study therefore attributed short-term savings to employers and long-term savings to the government.
Zhang noted that the U.S. labor market lacks Denmark's generous sick-leave policies. Employees who feel unwell often work while less productive, he said, creating losses for both workers and firms. He added that fewer health-related productivity losses could raise output and support promotions.
