A new study reveals that Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro significantly outperforms Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic in promoting weight loss, despite both drugs sharing similar side effects and dropout rates.
Key Findings
The research, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, analyzed data from over 18,000 patients who started taking either tirzepatide (Mounjaro) or semaglutide (Ozempic) between May 2022 and September 2023. The study utilized electronic health records from Truveta, encompassing data from more than 100 million patients.
Effectiveness and Results
Tirzepatide, sold as Mounjaro for diabetes and Zepbound for weight loss, showed a distinct advantage over semaglutide. Patients on tirzepatide were nearly twice as likely to lose 5% of their body weight, 2.5 times as likely to lose 10%, and more than three times as likely to lose 15%. Here are the average weight loss percentages at various intervals:
– 3 Months: Tirzepatide users lost 6%, semaglutide users lost just under 4%.
– 6 Months: Tirzepatide users lost 10%, semaglutide users lost 6%.
– 1 Year: Tirzepatide users lost 15%, semaglutide users lost 8%.
Participant Demographics
The study included 18,386 individuals, predominantly female (70%) and white (77%). About 11% were Black, over half had type 2 diabetes, and the average BMI was 39. Additionally, 21% had been diagnosed with depression, illustrating the overlap between obesity, diabetes, and mental health issues.
Side Effects and Dropout Rates
Both medications had similar side effects, primarily gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and vomiting. By November of last year, over half of the patients on both drugs had discontinued use, likely due to these side effects and challenges in accessing the medication.
Access and Availability Challenges
Despite their effectiveness, both Mounjaro and Ozempic face significant accessibility issues. Supply constraints have made it difficult for many patients to obtain these medications consistently. Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly have been struggling to meet the high demand, with Novo’s Wegovy, a higher dose semaglutide for weight loss, also facing availability issues.
Expert Opinions
Dr. Katherine Saunders from Weill Cornell Medicine emphasized the necessity of personalized care and support for patients on these medications. Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford from Massachusetts General Hospital highlighted that some patients may discontinue GLP-1 drugs due to medical reasons or insufficient weight loss. Both experts agree that managing side effects and ensuring proper medication access are critical for patient success.
While the study indicates Mounjaro’s superior effectiveness in weight loss compared to Ozempic, the real-world challenges of side effects and medication access remain significant hurdles. Continued research and improved accessibility will be essential in maximizing the benefits of these groundbreaking treatments for diabetes and obesity. Please remeber to always consult healthcare professionals to create a personalized plan that aligns with your health needs and weight loss goals.
Additional Insights from Recent Sources
– Adherence to Treatment: Recent articles emphasize the importance of adherence to GLP-1 therapies for sustained weight loss. Proper dose escalation and management of side effects can improve patient adherence and outcomes .
– Economic Considerations: The high cost of GLP-1 medications remains a barrier for many patients, highlighting the need for better insurance coverage and patient assistance programs .
– Future Research Directions: Ongoing studies are exploring the long-term impacts of GLP-1 medications on cardiovascular health and overall mortality, promising a broader understanding of their benefits beyond weight loss and diabetes management .