Eli Lilly's Zepbound Surpasses Novo Nordisk's Wegovy in 72-Week SURMOUNT-5 Trial

Dec 4, 2024, 12:04 PM

In a significant development in the pharmaceutical industry, Eli Lilly & Co.'s obesity drug Zepbound (tirzepatide) has outperformed Novo Nordisk A/S's Wegovy (semaglutide) in the SURMOUNT-5 head-to-head clinical trial. Over 72 weeks, participants using Zepbound achieved an average weight loss of 20.2% (50.3 lbs or 22.8 kg), compared to 13.7% (33.1 lbs or 15.0 kg) for those on Wegovy, representing a 47% greater relative weight reduction. The trial involved adults with obesity or overweight conditions, along with related diseases such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, obstructive sleep apnea, or cardiovascular disease, but without type 2 diabetes. The results have led to a rise in Eli Lilly's stock, highlighting the competitive edge Zepbound has in the weight loss drug market.