Many Struggle to Maintain Weight Loss Success with New Medications

The new generation of weight-loss medications has become a global phenomenon, dramatically changing obesity treatment. Drugs like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) have seen widespread use, with hundreds of thousands of prescriptions filled in Sweden alone in 2025. These medications have demonstrated significant efficacy, with studies showing average weight loss of 12-20 percent.

However, the success comes with considerable drawbacks. Many users report unpleasant side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. The requirement for weekly injections is also a significant burden for some. Furthermore, studies indicate that a portion of the weight lost, around 25 percent, is muscle mass, not just fat.

A major challenge is patient adherence. A U.S. study found that nearly two-thirds of patients without type 2 diabetes discontinued the medications within a year. The high cost, as these drugs are not covered by Sweden's high-cost protection system, is another significant factor. This has created an opening for competitors to challenge the market currently dominated by Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly.

Pharmaceutical companies are actively seeking solutions. Pfizer is developing a GLP-1 drug aiming to reduce injections from 52 per year to 13, focusing on the quality of weight loss beyond just the number on the scale. Amgen is testing a combination therapy that could potentially decrease injections to four to six per year. Other companies are exploring ways to mitigate side effects, aiming for treatments that patients can sustain long-term.

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Just lowering weight is the beginning. The quality of weight loss is also important.