The Growing Obesity Crisis and the Role of Anti-Obesity Medications: A Comparison of Wegovy and Zepbound

Obesity is one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time, with its prevalence rising at an alarming rate globally. It is linked to cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancers. According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 8 individuals worldwide are living with obesity, highlighting the urgent need for treatments. Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly are amongst the pharmaceutical companies that are leading the charge in the fight against obesity with drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound. This article explores the growing obesity crisis, anti-obesity drugs, and a comparative analysis of these two treatments.

The Rise of Obesity

Obesity is a complex disease influenced by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. In the United States, at least 20% of adults are obese, while in England around 9.6% of children are obese. In Japan, obesity affects 35% of men in their sixties and 31.5% of the overall population. Even in countries like India, millions struggle with obesity. The sharp rise in obesity rates across the globe underscores the need for more effective treatment solutions.

Role of Anti-Obesity Drugs

For years, obesity treatments focused on lifestyle interventions such as diet and exercise, yet these approaches yield limited long-term success. Anti-obesity drugs have emerged as a crucial component of obesity management by targeting appetite regulation and metabolism. Medications like Wegovy and Zepbound complement lifestyle modifications to combat obesity. These medications, based on glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, show promising results in helping people manage their weight more effectively and safely.

Ozempic's Rising Popularity: A Dual Solution for Weight Loss and Diabetes Management

Ozempic, another GLP-1 receptor agonist developed by Novo Nordisk, has gained popularity. While primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes, Ozempic also offers significant weight loss benefits. It contains semaglutide, which enhances insulin secretion and promotes a sense of fullness. This makes it a practical option not only for diabetes management but also for weight management. Although Ozempic is approved for diabetes treatment, its increasing use for weight loss has made it a sought-after medication. In the UK, private prescriptions for Ozempic typically cost between EUR 149 to EUR 180 per month, depending on the dosage and provider. As a trusted and effective option for both diabetes management and weight loss, Ozempic continues to be a popular choice.

Novo Nordisk: A Leader in Anti-Obesity Drugs

Novo Nordisk was established in 1923 and has its headquarters in Bagsværd, Denmark. It is a leading global healthcare company dedicated to combating serious chronic diseases. The company has a strong heritage in diabetes care, with products like Saxenda and Wegovy leading the way.

Saxenda, approved by the European Medicines Agency, is a once-daily injection containing liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist. It works by regulating appetite and promoting fullness, supporting weight loss when combined with diet and increased physical activity. It is indicated for adults and adolescents with obesity. Wegovy (semaglutide), approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in June 2021, is another breakthrough treatment from Novo Nordisk. This medication, which mimics the action of the GLP-1 hormone, has shown excellent results in regulating appetite and supporting weight loss. In March 2024, it also received an indication for reducing cardiovascular risk, adding even more value to its therapeutic benefits. With a direct monthly price of USD 499 starting in March 2025, Wegovy is becoming more accessible to a broader range of patients.

Novo Nordisk’s dedication to improving global health outcomes through affordable and innovative treatments continues to position it as a leader in the anti-obesity drug market.

Eli Lilly: Transforming Obesity Treatment with Zepbound

Eli Lilly is a renowned American multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. By harnessing biotechnology, chemistry, and genetic medicine, their innovative pipeline addresses Alzheimer’s, pain, cancer, immunology, diabetes, and obesity with breakthroughs like the anti-obesity drug Zepbound.

Zepbound (tirzepatide) is an FDA-approved dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist medication. It was approved in November 2023 for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight having weight-related conditions. By targeting key hormonal pathways, Zepbound reduces appetite and food intake, leading to an average weight loss of up to 20.2% average weight loss. In February 2025, Eli Lilly launched single-dose vials (7.5 mg and 10 mg) priced at USD 499 under the Zepbound Self-Pay Journey Program, significantly enhancing affordability and accessibility for patients. This breakthrough drug offers an effective, evidence-based option for sustainable weight reduction.

Launch of Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro (tirzepatide) in India

In March 2025, Eli Lilly launched Mounjaro (tirzepatide) in India, following approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). This innovative, once-weekly injectable targets both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, offering a novel approach to managing type 2 diabetes and obesity. Clinical trials demonstrated significant benefits, participants experienced substantial weight loss and improved glycemic control. With approximately 101 million individuals living with diabetes in India, this introduction represents a significant advancement in addressing the nation's growing metabolic health challenges.

Eli Lilly’s continued dedication to innovation exemplifies its commitment to transforming scientific discoveries into life-changing treatments. Zepbound represents a promising advancement in chronic weight management, offering patients an accessible, effective, and sustainable approach to combating obesity.

Wegovy vs. Zepbound: A Comparative Analysis

Wegovy and Zepbound offer distinct treatment options for chronic weight management. Yet they have distinct differences that may make one a better choice depending on individual needs. Below is a detailed comparison:

Other Developments in Anti-Obesity Medication

In addition to Wegovy and Zepbound, several promising anti-obesity drugs are currently in development, targeting various metabolic pathways to enhance weight management. IBI362, developed by Innovent Biologics, is in a Phase III trial in China, targeting GLP-1 and glucagon receptors to improve glucose control and induce weight loss. Zealand Pharma’s Petrelintide, a long-acting amylin analogue, is in Phase II trials, enhancing satiety and leptin sensitivity. Other investigational drugs include Retatrutide, Orforglipron, PF-07976016, HM15275, LY3532226, and NNC0519-0130.

Future Market Outlook

The global anti-obesity drug market is poised for significant expansion in the coming years. Rising obesity rates and increased health awareness are driving demand for innovative treatment options. Leading pharmaceutical companies, including Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, are investing heavily in research and development. Their breakthrough drugs have set new standards in efficacy and affordability, paving the way for a competitive landscape that will likely transform obesity management worldwide.