New medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro have generated hope for millions seeking effective obesity treatments. However, for some, the much-hyped drugs fail to deliver the expected results, leaving patients discouraged and searching for answers.
Take Griffin, a 38-year-old IT worker from New Mexico, who began taking Wegovy a year and a half ago. Despite having the medication covered by insurance and maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, she lost only 13 pounds.
“I’ve done everything right with no success. It’s discouraging,” Griffin shared.
Why Do Obesity Drugs Work Differently for Everyone?
Clinical trials show that most people on Wegovy or Mounjaro lose 15% to 22% of their body weight. Yet, around 10% to 15% of participants lose less than 5%. Now that millions have used these drugs, experts estimate that up to 20% of patients may not respond well to them.
Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford, an obesity expert at Massachusetts General Hospital, explains that individual differences in genetics, hormones, and brain function play a key role in how these drugs work. Factors such as sleep apnea or medications like antidepressants can also hinder weight loss.
“This is a disease that stems from the brain. The dysfunction may not be the same for every patient,” Stanford said.
Managing Expectations and Exploring Alternatives
For patients with high hopes, lack of significant weight loss can be emotionally devastating. Dr. Katherine Saunders, an obesity specialist at Weill Cornell Medicine, emphasizes the importance of setting realistic expectations.
“It’s crucial to explain that results can vary from person to person,” Saunders noted.
For Griffin, Wegovy’s benefits were limited. While the drug reduced her appetite and lowered her diabetes risk, she didn’t see the dramatic weight loss she had hoped for. Recently, she switched to Zepbound, a medication targeting an additional hormone pathway. After three months, she has lost 7 pounds.
“I’m hoping for slow and steady progress,” Griffin said.
What Can Patients Do?
When one treatment doesn’t work, there are still options. Trying a different drug, addressing sleep, stress, or dietary habits, or exploring older medications can help.
Dr. Jody Dushay, an endocrinologist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, advises patients not to give up. “If what we’re prescribing doesn’t work, we always have a backup plan,” she said.
Obesity remains a complex condition requiring comprehensive treatment. As new medications continue to evolve, doctors emphasize the importance of personalized care and perseverance in finding the right solution.
