GLP-1 Treatment and Work Capacity

Using linked Finnish administrative records and a staggered difference-in-differences design, we estimate how starting semaglutide (Ozempic) affects work capacity, measured by medically certified sickness absence. The first purchase is followed by persistent use and improved glycemic control, indicating that recorded purchases correspond to sustained and clinically active treatment. The reduction in sickness absence is near zero during months 0–5, becomes progressively larger thereafter, and is largest during months 12–18. Averaged over event months 0–18, sickness allowance receipt falls by 16.9 percent and compensated days by 14.3 percent relative to pre-treatment means. The decline in full-day sickness absence is not offset by greater reliance on unemployment or partial sickness benefits. The results show that semaglutide improves work capacity and can generate economic benefits beyond its direct effects on metabolic health.