As patients consider drugs like Wegovy, Ozempic, Zepbound, and Mounjaro to treat obesity, experts say the choices are not so simple. There are a number of powerful new drugs to help people lose weight. One is semaglutide, sold by Novo Nordisk as Wegovy for obesity treatment and as Ozempic for diabetes. The second, tirzepatide, is sold by Eli Lilly as Zepbound for obesity and as Mounjaro for diabetes.
People with obesity now have a choice between these two powerful drugs to help them lose weight. Many individuals, even those without obesity or diabetes, are taking these drugs to slim down. However, a recent study suggested that people lost more weight taking Mounjaro than they did taking Ozempic. This may lead you to wonder which drug you should choose, or if you are already taking one of them, should you switch?
According to obesity medicine experts, the answers to these questions are not so straightforward. Dr. Diana Thiara, medical director of the weight loss clinic at the University of California, San Francisco, mentioned that the information available about the effectiveness of these drugs comes from “highly flawed studies.” For example, the recent study comparing Mounjaro and Ozempic found that those taking Mounjaro lost an average of 15.3 percent of their weight after a year, while those taking Ozempic lost an average of 8.3 percent.
While these results may seem impressive, Dr. Susan Z. Yanovski, co-director of the Office of Obesity Research at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, advised against making medical decisions based solely on one study. It’s essential to consider various factors before choosing a weight loss drug.
When deciding on a weight loss drug, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual health needs. Factors such as medical history, current medications, lifestyle, and treatment goals should be taken into account to determine the most suitable option for you. Remember that weight loss drugs are just one part of a comprehensive weight management plan that includes healthy eating, regular physical activity, and behavior modification.
In conclusion, while drugs like Wegovy, Ozempic, Zepbound, and Mounjaro can be effective tools for weight loss, it’s important to approach their use with caution and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. Make informed decisions about your health and well-being to achieve sustainable and long-term weight loss results.