In recent years, numerous individuals have rushed to obtain popular weight-loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. However, Danielle Griffin, a 38-year-old IT professional from New Mexico, experienced no difficulties in accessing these treatments. She had a prescription, her local pharmacy maintained an adequate supply, and her health insurance covered the majority of her monthly expenses, leaving only a $25 to $50 out-of-pocket cost.
Despite this seemingly seamless access to the medications, Griffin discovered that the anticipated results were elusive. After a year and a half on Wegovy, she managed to lose just 13 pounds, despite adhering strictly to a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly. “I’ve done everything right with no success. It’s discouraging,” she expressed.
Clinical trials indicated that participants using Wegovy or Mounjaro for obesity management typically experienced a weight loss of about 15% to 22% or, in some cases, over 50 pounds. However, clinical findings also showed that around 10% to 15% of trial participants were classified as “nonresponders,” having lost less than 5% of their body weight. With millions having now used these medications, obesity experts estimate that approximately 20% of patients may not experience the intended effects of these weight-loss drugs, which highlights the fact that results can vary significantly among individuals.
Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford, an obesity specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital, emphasizes the importance of recognizing that weight-loss responses differ among people. The drugs in question, known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, imitate a hormone that influences appetite regulation. Various factors such as genetics, hormones, and brain functionality concerning energy management can play a role in how each individual responds to these medications. Additionally, pre-existing medical conditions or certain common medications can hinder weight-loss efforts.
The emotional distress that patients face can be immense when they begin their treatment but see minimal results on the scale. Dr. Katherine Saunders, who specializes in obesity at Weill Cornell Medicine, noted that the high expectations for these medications can lead to significant disappointment when desired outcomes aren’t achieved. Griffin exemplifies this struggle; she has dealt with obesity since childhood and had aimed to lose 70 pounds through Wegovy. Though the drug succeeded in curbing her appetite and reducing her diabetes risk, substantial weight loss remained out of reach.
Typically, these medications are prescribed alongside dietary and lifestyle modifications. According to Dr. Jody Dushay, an endocrine specialist, an initial response to the medication can be evident within a few weeks. Usually, patients start losing weight promptly, and the effect intensifies with dosage increases. Nonetheless, some people may not respond as hoped, and for others, side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can force them to discontinue their use, leaving them feeling as if their options are limited.
Dushay reassures disappointed patients that their journey isn’t over. Trying another variant of the drug class may yield better results. For example, after not experiencing significant success with Wegovy, Griffin transitioned to Zepbound, which addresses an additional hormonal pathway. After three months on the new medication, she has seen a 7-pound weight reduction, leading her to remain hopeful, stating, “I’m hoping it’s slow and steady.”
Furthermore, healthcare professionals highlight that older weight-loss medications may still be effective for some individuals. Strategies aimed at improving one’s diet, enhancing exercise routines, optimizing sleep, and managing stress can also yield substantial benefits. Identifying the most effective approach typically necessitates consulting with a physician trained in obesity treatment. As Dr. Saunders aptly puts it, “Obesity is such a complex disease that really needs to be treated very comprehensively. If what we’re prescribing doesn’t work, we always have a backup plan.”