US pharmaceutical major Eli Lilly & Co., (NYSE: LLY) has revealed a positive readout from the open-label, randomized Phase III SURMOUNT-5 study. The study assessed the weight loss effects of Zepbound (tirzepatide) compared to Wegovy (semaglutide) in adult patients with obesity or overweight, who have at least one weight-related medical problem but do not have diabetes.
Zepbound Demonstrates Superior Weight Loss Compared to Wegovy
The study results indicated that Zepbound achieved a 47% greater relative weight loss compared to Wegovy, with an average weight loss of 20.2% for Zepbound versus 13.7% for Wegovy. At 72 weeks, Zepbound outperformed Wegovy on both the primary endpoint and all five key secondary endpoints, marking a significant advancement in the treatment of obesity.
Safety Profiles of Zepbound and Wegovy
In addition to the efficacy results, the safety of both drugs was found to be consistent with previous findings, providing reassurance on their use in long-term weight management.
Background on Tirzepatide and Semaglutide
Tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Zepbound, is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It has been approved in multiple countries, including China and the US, for the treatment of type 2 diabetes under the trade name Mounjaro, and for long-term weight management as Zepbound. Semaglutide, a GLP-1 agonist, is approved to treat type 2 diabetes and reduce weight under the trade names Ozempic and Wegovy, respectively.-Fineline Info & Tech
