New clinical trial data reveals that Zepbound, developed by Eli Lilly, leads to greater weight loss compared to Wegovy, the widely recognized obesity drug from Novo Nordisk. The findings, released on Wednesday, come from the SURMOUNT-5 phase clinical trial, marking the first head-to-head comparison of the two GLP-1 receptor agonists.
Both drugs work by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which reduces appetite and food intake. However, Zepbound contains tirzepatide, a compound that also mimics the GIP hormone, potentially offering an added benefit in controlling hunger and eating behavior.
According to the trial results, Zepbound users experienced a 47 percent greater weight loss compared to those taking Wegovy. After 18 months of treatment, adults on Zepbound lost an average of 20 percent of their body weight, roughly 50 pounds. In comparison, those using Wegovy, the brand name for semaglutide, lost about 14 percent, or around 33 pounds, during the same period.
The trial also showed that Zepbound users were more likely to reach significant weight loss goals. Approximately 32 percent of those on Zepbound lost at least 25 percent of their body weight, a milestone achieved by just 16 percent of Wegovy users.
“With the growing demand for obesity treatments, this study provides valuable insights to help healthcare providers and patients make well-informed treatment choices,” said Leonard C. Glass, senior vice president of global medical affairs at Lilly Cardiometabolic Health. “Zepbound stands out as the only FDA-approved dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist for obesity, offering a new approach to managing this chronic condition.”
Eli Lilly plans to publish the trial’s findings in a peer-reviewed journal and present them at a medical conference in 2025.
In response to the results, a spokesperson for Novo Nordisk emphasized Wegovy’s established role in reducing cardiovascular risks, such as heart attack and stroke, for individuals with obesity or heart disease.
“People living with obesity deserve effective solutions and support, including access to FDA-approved treatments,” the spokesperson said. “As a leader in obesity care, we continue to champion the semaglutide molecule and the extensive data that supports its benefits.”
Related Topics:
What Diabetes Drug Helps You Lose Weight
