In a significant clinical trial, Eli Lilly’s obesity medication, Zepbound (tirzepatide), demonstrated superior weight loss outcomes compared to Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy (semaglutide).
The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, involved 751 U.S. participants who were overweight or had obesity, along with at least one related health condition, but did not have diabetes.
Over a 72-week period, participants administered Zepbound experienced an average weight reduction of 20.2%, equating to approximately 50.3 pounds (22.8 kg).
In contrast, those receiving Wegovy saw a 13.7% average decrease, or about 33.1 pounds (15 kg) . Additionally, Zepbound users achieved a greater average waist circumference reduction of 7.2 inches (18.4 cm) compared to 5.1 inches (13 cm) for Wegovy users .
Both medications belong to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic hormones that regulate appetite and food intake. Zepbound distinguishes itself by targeting two hormones—GLP-1 and GIP—potentially enhancing its effectiveness .
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Common side effects for both drugs include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. Approximately 6% of Zepbound participants and 8% of Wegovy participants discontinued the trial due to adverse effects .
Accessibility and cost remain significant considerations. Without insurance, Zepbound’s monthly cost ranges from $349 to $699, depending on dosage . Wegovy is priced at approximately $1,350 per month, though manufacturer discounts can reduce this to around $499.
Insurance coverage varies, with some providers offering limited support for weight-loss medications. Notably, CVS Health has designated Wegovy as a preferred option on its formulary, potentially influencing patient access to these treatments .
Experts emphasize the importance of having multiple effective treatments for obesity, a condition affecting approximately 40% of American adults. Dr. Angela Fitch, Chief Medical Officer of knownwell, an obesity care company, stated, “We need a range of options to address the diverse needs of patients battling obesity.”
This trial underscores the evolving landscape of obesity treatment and the potential for medications like Zepbound to offer enhanced outcomes for patients.
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