Zepbound leads to more weight loss than Wegovy, drugmaker Eli Lilly says
Zepbound Proves More Effective for Weight Loss than Wegovy #
In a recent clinical trial comparing two GLP-1 drugs, Zepbound, the brand name for tirzepatide, has shown significantly greater efficacy in weight loss than Wegovy, the brand name for semaglutide. Adults living with obesity or overweight who took Zepbound lost over 20% of their weight on average after approximately eighteen months, compared to the 14% weight loss for those on Wegovy. This corresponds to an average weight reduction of about 50 pounds with Zepbound and 33 pounds with Wegovy.
Zepbound users were more successful in reaching specific weight loss goals: approximately 32% lost at least 25% of their body weight, in contrast to 16% among Wegovy users. Tirzepatide uniquely stimulates both GLP-1 and a second hormone, GIP, potentially enhancing weight loss effects. Both drugs, however, mimic GLP-1 by stimulating insulin production and slowing stomach emptying, which supports appetite control.
Regulatory bodies have approved versions of tirzepatide and semaglutide to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. Reportedly, Zepbound is notable as the only FDA-approved medication that acts as a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, marking a significant development in obesity management.
Notably, previous research using electronic health records hinted at similar outcomes, though such studies included individuals with concurrent obesity and diabetes. The recent trial focused solely on adults with obesity or overweight, who also had comorbid conditions like hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Mild to moderate gastrointestinal symptoms were the most common side effects for both Zepbound and Wegovy users.
The pharmaceutical company behind Zepbound plans to publish these findings in a peer-reviewed journal and share further insights at an upcoming medical meeting.