In a head-to-head clinical trial funded by Eli Lilly, it was found that their weight loss drug, Zepbound, resulted in more significant weight loss compared to Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy. The study included 751 adults in the U.S. and Puerto Rico who were either overweight or had obesity, and those who received Zepbound lost an average of 20.2% of their body weight after 72 weeks, while those on Wegovy lost an average of 13.7%. Zepbound provided 47% more weight loss than Wegovy, according to Lilly. The common side effects for both drugs were gastrointestinal-related and generally mild to moderate in severity.
Both Zepbound and Wegovy contain GLP-1 drugs, with Zepbound also imitating a second hormone called GIP, which may improve how the body breaks down sugar and fat. While Wegovy has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease in people with overweight or obesity, Zepbound has shown potential as a treatment for obstructive sleep apnea.
Dr. Susan Spratt noted that both drugs are highly effective, with the amount of weight loss seen being impressive. However, she highlighted the importance of comparing the drugs on health outcomes beyond weight loss. Dr. Christopher McGowan mentioned that patients often consider factors like cost, availability, and insurance coverage when selecting a treatment. The results of the trial have yet to undergo peer review but are planned to be presented at a medical meeting next year.
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