Zepbound Shows Greater Weight Loss Than Wegovy in Major Trial
Key takeaways:
- In a recent clinical trial, Zepbound (tirzepatide) achieved 47% greater weight loss compared to Wegovy (semaglutide).
- More participants lost at least 25% of their initial weight on Zepbound than on Wegovy.
- Tirzepatide is an FDA-approved weight loss and diabetes treatment that targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, offering a distinct approach to weight loss and diabetes.
A new head-to-head trial offers the strongest evidence yet that Eli Lilly’s Zepbound (tirzepatide) outperforms Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy (semaglutide) in helping adults with obesity manage their weight.
Recently released results from the SURMOUNT-5 clinical trial in adults living with obesity or overweight (but without diabetes) found that after 72 weeks, Zepbound led to an average weight loss of 20.2% (50.3 pounds) compared to 13.7% (33.1 pounds) with Wegovy.
More about SURMOUNT-5
Participants in the SURMOUNT-5 trial had a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, or a BMI of 27 or more if they had been previously diagnosed with at least one weight-related condition (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obstructive sleep apnea, or heart disease). Participants did not have diabetes and also had to have at least one unsuccessful effort to lose weight by dieting prior to the trial.
At 72 weeks, Zepbound outperformed Wegovy, with participants on Zepbound achieving 47% more relative weight loss compared to those taking Wegovy. In addition, 31.6% of participants on Zepbound lost at least 25% of their body weight, compared to 16.1% of those on Wegovy. Those taking Zepbound also saw a waist size reduction of 7.1 inches compared to 5.2 inches with Wegovy.
Both groups received the highest approved doses alongside counseling on nutrition and exercise. The most commonly reported side effects for both medications were gastrointestinal-related and generally mild to moderate in severity. The discontinuation rates were slightly lower for Zepbound (6%) than for Wegovy (8%).
Tirzepatide vs. semaglutide
Tirzepatide and semaglutide are medications designed to help with weight management, but they work differently. Semaglutide focuses on activating the GLP-1 receptor, which helps reduce appetite and control hunger. Tirzepatide takes a broader approach, targeting both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, two key pathways involved in regulating digestion and energy use. This dual action may offer additional benefits for weight loss.
Both tirzepatide and semaglutide have been shown to support significant weight loss when paired with lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise. Clinical studies suggest that these medications can help individuals achieve and maintain their weight management goals more effectively than with lifestyle changes alone.
Both medicines are also available for type 2 diabetes under the brand names Mounjaro and Ozempic, respectively.
The bottom line
With obesity rates rising and insurance coverage for weight management drugs still limited, people with diabetes and providers need clear answers about which treatments work best. In adults living with obesity or overweight, the SURMOUNT-5 trial demonstrated that Zepbound may be a leading treatment for weight management.
Clinically comparing these two drugs could influence how doctors prescribe – and how insurers cover – these treatments. The trial comes shortly after CVS Health dropped Zepbound from some formularies, choosing Wegovy instead.
Learn more about weight loss medications and diabetes here: