A recent study about two leading weight loss medications - Eli Lilly’s Zepound® and Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy® - has many of our medical weight loss patients at New Jersey Bariatric Center® asking us, which weight loss medication is best for me?  Here’s a quick look at how the head-to-head study of Zepbound® vs Wegovy® reveals significant differences in weight loss outcomes between Zepbound® and Wegovy® that could impact your weight loss goals here in New Jersey.

Key Weight Loss Findings

The head-to-head weight loss study*, involving more than 750 participants with obesity or weight-related complications, demonstrated key results:

• Zepbound®: Patients lost an average of 20.2% of body weight (approximately 50 pounds)
• Wegovy®: Patients lost an average of 13.7% of body weight (approximately 33 pounds)

This represents a 6.5 percentage point difference in weight loss effectiveness.

*Note: Eli Lilly, the maker of Zepbound®, funded the weight loss study.  Full study results can be found here.

Understanding How Zepbound® & Wegovy® work

Both Zepbound® and Wegovy® are injectable medications designed to address obesity by suppressing appetite, slowing stomach emptying, modifying hunger signaling pathways and supporting long-term weight management. While the study shows Zepbound®'s increased weight loss potential, individual results can vary. Factors influencing weight loss include individual metabolism, adherence to medication, lifestyle modifications and overall health conditions. These medications are not quick fixes but tools in a comprehensive weight management strategy.

RELATED: Weight Loss Medication Comparison Chart 

Important Considerations for Patients

While these results are impactful, at New Jersey Bariatric Center® we emphasize that medication is just one component of a successful weight loss journey. With more than 20 years of helping patients in New Jersey reach and maintain their weight loss goals, we know that medications like Zepbound® and Wegovy® are not a standalone solution. They are most effective when combined with consistent lifestyle modifications, balanced nutrition, regular physical activity and ongoing medical supervision. When trying to decide between Zepbound® versus Wegovy®, align your medication choice with your weight loss goals and consider your insurance coverage as coverage for each medication may vary.

RELATED: Potential Weight Loss Calculator

Switching from Wegovy® to Zepbound® 

If you're currently on Wegovy® or other weight loss medication and want to switch to Zepbound® consult with your healthcare provider. They'll assess your health, goals, and medication transition options. Patients experiencing a weight loss plateau with Wegovy® may be good candidates for switching to Zepbound®, pending medical approval. Your doctor can determine whether Zepbound® is the right choice for you, help you safely navigate the switch, ensuring minimal disruption to your weight loss journey.

Long-Term Weight Management

Weight loss medications are tools for managing obesity, not permanent solutions. Weight regain is possible when medications such as Zepbound® and Wegovy® are discontinued, especially if previous lifestyle habits resume. Weight loss is a journey, not a sprint. Developing consistent healthy eating habits and using NJBC’s services such as Tuesday Talks monthly support group meetings and virtual fitness classes can help you maximize your weight loss.

Making Your Decision

While the study suggests Zepbound® might offer more weight loss, individual experiences differ. The most important step is having an in-depth conversation with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your unique health journey.

Weight management is a personalized process. Both weight loss medications are powerful tools, but lasting success comes from a holistic approach to health and wellness.

For questions, call 908-481-1270.