A recent clinical trial comparing Eli Lilly’s obesity drug, Zepbound, with Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy revealed that Zepbound users lost nearly 50% more weight on average. Participants taking tirzepatide (Zepbound) lost about 50 pounds (22.8 kg) over 72 weeks, while those taking semaglutide (Wegovy) lost approximately 33 pounds (15 kg). Both medications are designed to mimic gut and brain hormones that regulate appetite; however, Zepbound targets two hormones (GLP-1 and GIP), whereas Wegovy targets just one (GLP-1).
Dr. Louis Aronne, leading the study, emphasized that while Zepbound may be more effective—in terms of weight loss—both drugs are valuable in treating obesity, a condition affecting around 40% of American adults. The study followed 751 participants who were overweight or obese without diabetes, administering weekly injections of the highest tolerated doses of Zepbound or Wegovy.
Results showed participants on Zepbound lost about 20% of their body weight compared to a nearly 14% loss for those on Wegovy. Zepbound users also experienced greater reductions in waist circumference and were more likely to lose at least a quarter of their body weight. Despite potential weight loss benefits, over 75% of patients experienced mild to moderate gastrointestinal side effects, leading to a small percentage discontinuing the drug.
Access and affordability remain challenges for wider use, with both medications recently being removed from drug shortage lists by the FDA. To expand access, the manufacturers have introduced programs to lower costs. As the need for obesity treatment grows, experts like Dr. Angela Fitch highlight the importance of having multiple treatment options tailored to individual patient needs.
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