A new clinical trial from Eli Lilly has shown that Zepbound is more effective than Wegovy for long-term weight loss, with 31% of participants achieving at least 25% body weight loss compared to 16%. The SURMOUNT-5 trial involved 751 people in the US and Puerto Rico who were either overweight or had obesity, along with at least one other comorbidity. Participants were given a maximum tolerated dose of either Zepbound or Wegovy for 72 weeks.
The results show that Zepbound led to significant weight loss in 20% of participants, compared to nearly 14% for those taking Wegovy. On average, people taking Zepbound lost about 50 pounds, while those taking Wegovy dropped around 33 pounds.
Experts emphasize that weight loss drugs are most effective when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular physical exercise. Adequate sleep, stress reduction, and other lifestyle changes can also contribute to successful weight loss.
Dr. Mir Ali, a bariatric surgeon, notes that the type of weight loss medication may make a difference for some patients. “Some may be more sensitive to one medication or the other, and therefore, experience more side effects.” He also highlights the importance of understanding that weight loss medications require a long-term commitment.
Dan Azagury, section chief of Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery at Stanford University, agrees that access to weight loss medications is a bigger issue. “Insurance coverage is extremely challenging… At this point, if we can get a patient on either [Zepbound or Wegovy], it’s a win.”
The results are consistent with previous research showing the effectiveness of Zepbound. The trial findings will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at a major medical conference next year.
Source: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/zepbound-more-weight-loss-than-wegovy-eli-lilly-trial