A new generation of weight-loss drugs has revolutionized the treatment of obesity, with impressive results and massive popularity. The most well-known of these drugs are Ozempic (Novo Nordisk), Wegovy (Novo Nordisk), and Mounjaro (Eli Lilly). These medications enhance the action of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), a hormone that affects insulin secretion, resulting in reduced appetite and weight loss.
According to studies, these drugs have been found to reduce people’s weight by an average of 15% to 20%. Obesity affects over 900 million people worldwide, making this breakthrough particularly significant. French endocrinologist Emmanuel Disse notes that these drugs “cover a major unmet need” in the treatment of obesity.
However, there are limitations to these medications. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, migraines, and disturbed sleep. Rare cases can also lead to serious complications, such as pancreas damage. The effect of these drugs only lasts while they are being taken, necessitating lifelong treatment. Additionally, they can be expensive, with some costing over $1,000 a month in the US.
National health agencies emphasize that these drugs should only be prescribed to overweight or obese individuals who have failed traditional weight loss methods like exercise and diet. France’s ANSM has warned against using these medications for aesthetic purposes, citing potential adverse effects.
As pharma firms continue to develop new treatments, experts predict a rapid evolution of more effective, affordable, and convenient options. Novo Nordisk’s experimental amycretin shows promise in early trials, while research also suggests potential benefits beyond obesity, including improvements in dementia and addiction.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-generation-blockbuster-weight-loss-drugs.html