Cleveland Clinic study reveals Wegovy leads to significant weight loss in women

A recent study conducted by Cleveland Clinic researchers has revealed that women using Wegovy for obesity treatment have a higher chance of achieving significant weight loss compared to other medications. The research, published in JAMA Network Open, analyzed data from approximately 3,400 obese adults who received either semaglutide or liraglutide between 2015 and 2022. The findings indicate that semaglutide, marketed as Ozempic for Type 2 diabetes and Wegovy for obesity, resulted in an average weight loss of 5.1%, while liraglutide led to a 2.2% reduction. The study highlighted that the effectiveness of these medications varies based on factors such as dosage and the specific indication for treatment. Participants taking higher doses of either drug experienced a more significant weight loss of 6.6% compared to 3.5% for those on lower doses. Notably, individuals prescribed these medications for obesity achieved a 5.9% weight loss, while those using them for diabetes saw a 3.2% reduction. Among the participants, 28.6% of those on liraglutide for obesity reached the 10% weight loss mark, compared to 23.1% of semaglutide users for diabetes and 12.3% of liraglutide users for diabetes. Dr. Hamlet Gasoyan, the lead author of the study, emphasized the importance of setting realistic weight loss goals and the necessity of persistence in achieving meaningful results. The study's results come at a time of increasing demand for GLP-1 medications, despite concerns regarding potential side effects, including stomach paralysis and bowel damage. This research aims to provide valuable insights for patients and healthcare providers in managing expectations for weight loss outcomes.