Overview: Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker says GLP-1 therapy, combined with diet and daily exercise, helped him lose about 80 pounds after a type 2 diabetes diagnosis. He remained on insulin for roughly 1.5 years before stopping as his glucose returned to normal.
He emphasizes he experienced no major side effects and urges patients to consult their doctors before considering GLP-1 treatment.
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker says he has been taking a GLP-1 medication for more than two years and has lost roughly 80 pounds since beginning the treatment following a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.
Pritzker, 61, a second‑term Democrat and heir to the Hyatt hotel fortune, previously declined to discuss whether he used GLP-1 drugs, calling such questions "hyper‑personal." He now says he decided to share his experience because it may help others facing similar health challenges.
Concern about heart disease runs in Pritzker's family: his father, Donald Pritzker, died of a heart attack at 39. That family history led the governor to monitor his blood pressure and cholesterol closely; he has taken a statin for roughly two decades.
About three years ago, at age 58, Pritzker's bloodwork showed elevated glucose and he was diagnosed as prediabetic. Despite renewed efforts at dieting and exercise—including past attempts with keto, Atkins and vegetarian plans—he progressed to a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes about two years ago.
Upon diagnosis, his doctor recommended insulin to control glucose levels. Pritzker said he was determined not to remain on insulin long term and that his doctor suggested adding a GLP-1 medication alongside intensified diet and daily exercise.
"I came to the conclusion that it would be helpful to others to hear why I went on a GLP-1 and what the effect has been for me," Pritzker told PEOPLE. "It's been tremendously beneficial."
GLP-1 receptor agonists were developed to help manage blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes and, more recently, have been used to promote weight loss by suppressing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness. Some patients experience side effects such as nausea, fatigue or constipation; Pritzker reported he did not have notable side effects.
After starting the combined regimen, Pritzker says his glucose levels fell below the diabetic range and even below prediabetic thresholds. He remained on insulin for about a year and a half; once his weight and glucose were under control, his doctors advised he could stop insulin.
He reports losing roughly 80 pounds over two years, walking at least four miles each morning and finding exercise more enjoyable—now hiking with his son and playing tennis with his daughter. He says the health improvements and the prospect of living longer and perhaps seeing grandchildren have been especially meaningful.
Pritzker stresses that his experience is not a universal solution and urges anyone considering GLP-1 therapy to consult their physician about risks, benefits and alternatives.
Key Facts: GLP-1 medications can lower blood sugar and reduce appetite; they are prescribed for diabetes control and, increasingly, for weight management. Individual results vary and medical supervision is essential.
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