A new study has revealed important insights into the effectiveness of two drugs currently approved for weight loss by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Zepbound, the drug with the primary active ingredient tirzepatide, has been shown to facilitate greater weight loss compared to Wegovy, which contains semaglutide, according to recent findings released by its manufacturer, Eli Lilly.
The study, which has yet to undergo peer review, involved 751 participants classified as either obese or overweight with related medical conditions. Results indicated that those treated with Zepbound experienced a weight loss of 20% of their body weight after 72 weeks, equating to nearly 50 pounds, while participants on Wegovy lost just under 14%, or about 33 pounds.
This data was released following another study in July, confirming that Mounjaro, another drug with tirzepatide, was more effective for weight loss than Ozempic, a semaglutide-based drug typically prescribed for diabetes but often used off-label for weight loss.
Both Zepbound and Wegovy are administered weekly via injection and function by enhancing the pancreas’s insulin production, slowing gastric emptying, and suppressing appetite. Dr. Louis Aronne, a principal investigator in the Zepbound and Wegovy trial, noted that the dual action of tirzepatide potentially contributes to the superior outcomes observed.
While semaglutide exclusively mimics the GLP-1 hormone, tirzepatide targets both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors, leading to a greater impact on weight regulation. Aronne emphasized, “Hitting the system in more than one place can often result in additive weight loss.”
With over two years of clinical experience using these medications for weight loss, Dr. Aronne highlights that individual needs vary—some may require greater weight loss than others. He underscored the importance of having multiple drugs available, as not everyone benefits from the same approach.
In response to the new findings, Novo Nordisk, which manufactures Wegovy, defended semaglutide, emphasizing its proven capacity to reduce major cardiovascular event risks in patients with obesity or overweight.
Experts agree that successful weight loss strategies typically combine medication with exercise and a balanced diet. While side effects such as nausea and constipation are common with weight loss drugs, comprehensive discussions with healthcare professionals are crucial before starting any new treatment regimen.
Source: Good Morning America
