Las Vegas Tourism Declines: Ozempic and Online Gaming Blamed
Las Vegas, the global capital of gambling, is facing a decline in tourism. Since the first half of 2025, visitor volume has dropped by 6.7% compared to the same period in 2024. Experts point to factors like inflation and increased competition from online gaming providers. Meanwhile, a surprising theory has emerged, suggesting that a medication used to manage type 2 diabetes may be influencing gambling behavior in Las Vegas.
Cloudflare CEO Matthew Prince sparked a viral debate in October 2025 when he suggested that Ozempic, a GLP-1 medication, could be 'killing Vegas'. Ozempic is known to reduce cravings for high-calorie snacks, sugary beverages, and alcohol. However, its impact on gambling behavior in Las Vegas is less understood. Prince's claim, which received 1,400 likes, suggests that the medication's influence on impulsivity might extend to gambling in Las Vegas.
The decline in Las Vegas tourism coincides with a boom in online sports betting and iGaming. In the US, these sectors generated $6.19 billion in the first quarter of 2025, a $1.3 billion increase from the same period in 2024. This growth could be a factor in the decline of Las Vegas casino tourism, particularly among younger people who prefer the convenience of digital gambling.
While the impact of Ozempic on gambling behavior in Las Vegas is not fully understood, its potential influence is a topic of debate. Meanwhile, the growth of online gambling and economic factors continue to shape the landscape of Las Vegas tourism. As the industry navigates these changes, further research into the effects of Ozempic on impulsive behaviors may provide valuable insights.
