A recent review published in the Annals of Internal Medicine highlights the varying effectiveness of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss, with some options leading to significantly more weight loss than others.
The study analyzed 26 clinical trials involving nearly 15,500 participants and found that three GLP-1 medications—tirzepatide (Zepbound), semaglutide (Wegovy), and a new, still-in-development drug, retatrutide—were most effective at helping individuals lose weight. However, liraglutide (Saxenda), a widely prescribed GLP-1 drug, demonstrated less effectiveness in comparison.
Key Findings:
- Tirzepatide (Zepbound) resulted in a nearly 18% reduction in body weight after 72 weeks of treatment.
- Semaglutide (Wegovy) produced a 14% weight loss after 68 weeks.
- Retatrutide, which is still undergoing clinical trials, led to an impressive 22% weight loss after 48 weeks.
In contrast, liraglutide (Saxenda), the oldest drug in the category, only resulted in just under 6% weight loss after 26 weeks.
How GLP-1 Drugs Work
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) drugs, initially developed for managing type 2 diabetes, work by mimicking a hormone released by the small intestine during food intake. This hormone signals the brain that the body is full, thereby reducing appetite and slowing digestion.
The medications are administered via weekly injections and have gained attention for their ability to aid in weight loss in addition to controlling blood sugar levels.
Retatrutide: The New Contender
The study’s lead researcher, Dr. Mark Eisenberg, a professor of medicine at McGill University in Montreal, noted that while tirzepatide and semaglutide are proven effective, the new drug, retatrutide, might be the most promising. Early data suggests it could outperform both Zepbound and Wegovy in terms of weight reduction. Retatrutide is currently in clinical trials by Eli Lilly & Co. and has not yet been FDA-approved for weight loss.
Side Effects
Common side effects of GLP-1 drugs include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. However, these side effects are typically manageable, with few patients needing to discontinue the drugs due to adverse reactions.
Continuous Treatment May Be Necessary
One important takeaway from the review is that GLP-1 medications may require long-term use to maintain weight loss. Researchers emphasized that, while the weight loss outcomes were significant, individuals who stopped taking the medications often experienced weight regain. The review suggests that consistent treatment could be key to maintaining the benefits achieved.
Implications for Weight Loss Treatment
For obese and overweight individuals considering GLP-1 drugs as a weight loss solution, the review underscores the importance of consulting with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment based on individual health needs and goals.
As new drugs like retatrutide continue to be tested, the future of GLP-1 weight loss medications may hold even more promising options for patients struggling to lose weight.
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