Assessing risks Weight-loss injections are most effective when combined with structured support such as diet, exercise and psychological input. Without those elements, weight regain is common once treatment stops. Studies suggest many users regain at least half the weight once medication ends. As a result, underwriters typically assume some reversal when assessing BMI. For now, most applications involving weight-loss drugs are assessed manually, allowing underwriters to assess individual circumstances. Certain cases require closer scrutiny, such as applicants continuing treatment with a BMI below 25, or those with a history of eating disorders, gastric surgery or significant mental health issues. “Those are the cases where we’d probably ask for medical evidence,” Ballantine adds. Application implications GLP-1 drugs are new in obesity treatment, so long-term data is limited. Most safety evidence comes from diabetes use. Known risks include rare cases of pancreatitis and gastrointestinal issues, as well as loss of muscle mass and bone density leading to osteoporosis. “There is a class action lawsuit in the US claiming side effects weren’t fully disclosed,” Ballantine notes. “It’s something we’re watching, but for now the evidence suggests the benefits outweigh the risks – especially for those at higher risk of diabetes or cardiovascular disease.” For advisers and customers, the picture is positive. Sustained weight loss can mean application acceptance and lower premiums. BMI remains the key rating factor, with loadings generally starting around 30. “Someone with a BMI of 42 might previously have been declined,” Ballantine explains. “If they’ve brought that down to 32 with medication, suddenly they’re in the range where we can offer terms. That can transform adviser conversations and customer outcomes.” 13 WINTER PROTECT NEWSLETTER “If someone has stopped the medication and held a healthy BMI for at least six months, we’re more comfortable treating their new weight as stable,” he adds. Key takeaways For advisers, the growing prevalence of weight-management drugs means more customer conversations – and the need to handle them sensitively. “For many people, this will be the first approach that’s ever worked for weight loss,” says Ballantine. “Weight can be a sensitive topic – customers may find it difficult to discuss, or they may be proud of what they’ve achieved. It’s important to have that conversation in an understanding and supportive way.” Advisers should also reassure customers that insurers are engaging constructively with the trend – and outcomes are often more favourable than before. “It’s not a barrier to cover,” Ballantine explains. “In many cases, it improves the customer’s insurability. What matters is sustainability – whether the weight loss can be maintained over time.” When clients disclose use of these medications, advisers should capture key details: • When and why the medication was started • How much weight has been lost • Whether treatment is ongoing • Any side effects or complications “The more accurate and complete the disclosure, the smoother the underwriting process will be,” says Ballantine. The rise of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs is reshaping protection conversations, offering new opportunities for advisers to support clients’ health journeys while improving insurability. 1. https://www.thepharmacist.co.uk/clinical/cardiovascular/around1-5-million-uk-citizens-used-weight-loss-jabs-in-march-2025/ 2. https://asmbs.org/news_releases/head-to-head-study-showsbariatric-surgery-superior-to-glp-1-drugs-for-weight-loss/ • https://www.england.nhs.uk/ourwork/prevention/obesity/ medicines-for-obesity/weight-management-injections/ • https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5ylppp2vj9o
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