Weight Loss Medications How do new medications aid weight loss and why are they so effective?

The new weight loss drugs can be more effective than diet and exercise alone because they curb appetite and slow the rate at which your stomach empties.

How do new medications aid weight loss and why are they so effective?

The primary active ingredients in these drugs are:

semaglutide (Wegovy and Ozempic)

tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound)

liraglutide (Saxenda)

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These ingredients mimic the effects of one or more hormones related to hunger. All mimic glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1), and tirzepatide also mimics gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP), which is why it is called a dual agonist.

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semaglutide (Wegovy and Ozempic) mimics GLP-1

tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) mimics both GLP-1 and GIP

liraglutide (Saxenda) mimics GLP-1

GLP-1

GIP

Normally hormones like GLP-1 and GIP are released when you eat, but the drugs cause similar effects without calories.

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The result: You feel less hungry, more satisfied, and may even have fewer thoughts about food (aka “food noise”).

Consequently, you are likely to eat less, which leads to weight loss.

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Some people also experience nausea, which further discourages overeating.

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These effects only last while regularly taking the drugs. When people stop, hunger (and often weight) returns.

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