Superior weight loss results with tirzepatide versus semaglutide - study

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By Jane Collingwood

Tirzepatide leads to greater weight loss than semaglutide, according to a large head-to-head US study.

The drug, sold as Mounjaro for weight loss and weight management in adults, was compared against semaglutide, which is sold as Wegovy and is currently recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for managing overweight and obesity.

Tirzepatide is recommended by NICE for treating type 2 diabetes and a decision is due in October on whether it will also recommend the drug for weight management on the NHS. It follows authorisation for this indication from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in November 2023.

The study findings were welcomed by Professor Paul Gately, interim CEO at the charity Obesity UK. He told Doctors.net.uk: “Obesity UK are delighted to hear about ongoing evidence showing the advances in multiple pharmacological tools to support people living with obesity.

"For too long people living with obesity have been unable to access the tools they need to help them lose and manage their weight."