Wegovy Weight Loss Study: Reality Check on ‘Miracle’ Drugs
A recent long-term study of Wegovy, a weekly injectable drug for weight loss, has shed light on the reality of its effectiveness. The study found that after four years on the medication, patients lost only 10 percent of their original body weight.
Limited Benefits
For someone who is severely obese, a 10 percent reduction in body weight may not be enough to protect them from all the health woes associated with severe obesity. According to Dr. Shauna Levy, an obesity medicine specialist and bariatric surgeon at Tulane University, "a 10 percent reduction probably won’t be enough to protect someone from all the health woes associated with severe obesity."
Comparison to Other Treatments
Older treatments, such as surgery, in combination with diet and exercise changes, might be better ways to address weight loss. With bariatric surgery, people can lose between 20 to 50 percent of their original body weight. Dr. Levy added, "If your BMI is above 40, you then you might need to consider these other weight loss options options. Still, these drugs can be useful, and have been ‘transformative’ for people who previously thought any weight loss was impossible."
Plateau Effect
The study found that people who took Wegovy reduced their risk for heart attack and stroke by nearly 20 percent. However, the drug did not continue to produce weight loss beyond the initial 10 percent. Dr. Rekha H Kumar, an endocrinologist and the chief medical officer at Found, explained that "people who took Wegovy reduced their risk for heart attack and stroke by nearly 20 percent. Even a 10% weight loss can be very beneficial for one’s health."
Cost and Insurance Coverage
The average price of Wegovy in the US without insurance is $1,350 per month. Other options like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Zepbound are similarly as steep, running for $935, $1069, and $1,059 per month, respectively. Wegovy and Zepbound are not currently covered by many insurers in the US. Ozempic and Mounjaro might have more insurance options, since they were originally approved to treat diabetes, not just prescribed for weight loss.
Conclusion
The study highlights the limited benefits of Wegovy and similar drugs for weight loss. While they can be useful for some people, they may not be effective for everyone. The cost of these medications and limited insurance coverage make them inaccessible to many individuals. Healthcare providers and patients should discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of these drugs and explore other treatment options.
FAQs
Q: How effective is Wegovy for weight loss?
A: The study found that after four years on the medication, patients lost only 10 percent of their original body weight.
Q: Is Wegovy suitable for everyone?
A: No, Wegovy and similar drugs may not be effective for everyone. They may not be suitable for individuals with severe obesity or those who need more significant weight loss.
Q: Are there other treatment options for weight loss?
A: Yes, older treatments such as surgery, in combination with diet and exercise changes, might be better ways to address weight loss.
Q: How much does Wegovy cost?
A: The average price of Wegovy in the US without insurance is $1,350 per month.
