GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications: The Revolution in Obesity Treatment
Quick Facts
What Are GLP-1 Medications and How Do They Work?
Survodutide (up to 19% in phase 2), CagriSema (potentially over 15%), orforglipron (oral, up to 14.7% in phase 2).
What Are the Side Effects and Risks?
Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, MEN2 syndrome, history of pancreatitis, pregnancy.
What Happens When You Stop?
The STEP 1 extension trial showed significant weight regain after discontinuation. Implications:
Frequently Asked Questions
Wegovy: approximately 15%, Zepbound: up to 22%. In the SURMOUNT-1 trial, about one-third of tirzepatide patients lost 20% or more.
The SELECT cardiovascular outcomes trial followed patients for over 3 years and showed a 20% reduction in major cardiovascular events, supporting both safety and cardiovascular benefit.
BMI 30+ or BMI 27+ with at least one weight-related comorbidity. Requires a prescription.
$1,000-$1,350/month in the US without insurance. Coverage varies by plan and state.
No. Best outcomes are achieved when combined with lifestyle changes. Exercise is particularly important for preserving muscle mass during weight loss.
References
- Wilding JPH, et al. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity (STEP 1). N Engl J Med. 2021;384(11):989-1002.
- Jastreboff AM, et al. Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity (SURMOUNT-1). N Engl J Med. 2022;387(3):205-216.
- Lincoff AM, et al. Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Obesity without Diabetes (SELECT). N Engl J Med. 2023;389(24):2221-2232.
- Wilding JPH, et al. Weight Regain and Cardiometabolic Effects after Withdrawal of Semaglutide. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2022;24(8):1553-1564.
- Rubino DM, et al. Effect of Continued Weekly Subcutaneous Semaglutide vs Placebo on Weight Loss Maintenance (STEP 4). JAMA. 2021;325(14):1414-1425.