How much weight can I expect to lose with weight loss medication?

The number on the scale matters a lot when you start a treatment course with weight loss medication

Studies on the effectiveness of Wegovy show that a weight loss of up to 14% is expected. However, as with all medications, the effect is individual, and there are no guarantees.

Studies show up to 14% weight loss

We can confidently rely on studies showing the effectiveness of Wegovy if you have a BMI over 30 or over 27 plus other comorbidities and simultaneously change your lifestyle (calorie-reduced diet and exercise). For these patients, it has been demonstrated that up to 14% weight loss can be achieved. Some will lose more than that, while others may find that the weight loss medication does not work for them at all, and they do not lose weight. If the latter happens, you should, of course, stop taking the medication.

New medication from Elli Lilly is on the way, which has shown even greater weight loss in existing studies. Here, patients lose an average of 17%.

Weight loss is not just about medication

Weight loss is about many things – not just medication. Naturally, it is difficult to promise a specific weight loss in advance.

You create the best conditions for weight loss if you combine medical treatment with lifestyle changes. Adjusting your eating habits is primarily important. This involves both the composition of the food on your plate and the quantities. Often, you will automatically find it more difficult to consume large portions and highly caloric foods. Regardless, it is important to understand a healthy and well-balanced diet so that, both while you are taking weight loss medication and afterward, you can give your body the best conditions for weight loss and later weight maintenance.

But food is not the only thing you should examine closely, as your physical activity, sleep, and mental state also play a role in your success with a successful and lasting weight loss.