Why Bariatric Surgery May Be Better Than Wegovy and Zepbound

Within the rise in popularity of weight loss medications like Zepbound and Wegovy is a less-noticed phenomenon: Some patients don’t lose much weight on them.

Dr. Alexander Abkin, an award-winning bariatric surgeon in New Jersey, sheds light on the efficacy of bariatric surgery compared to GLP-1 medications like semaglutide in achieving safe and sustainable weight loss. While drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy have garnered attention for their weight loss benefits, Dr. Abkin emphasizes the importance of considering individualized treatment options for optimal outcomes.

“GLP-1 medications exhibit significant variability in weight loss outcomes among patients,” states Dr. Abkin.

In a trial for the drug semaglutide—marketed as Wegovy and Ozempic—about 14% of patients lost less than 5% of their body weight. About a third lost less than 10%. In a trial for tirzepatide, sold as Mounjaro and Zepbound, 9% of people lost less than 5% of their body weight and 16% lost less than 10%. Even among those who lost weight, amounts ranged from around 5% to upward of 20%.

A 68-year-old individual from Austin, Texas, with a body-mass index in the overweight category, sought to use a GLP-1 drug to shed approximately 10 pounds. However, after experiencing adverse effects, they discontinued the use of Wegovy after a month and switched to Ozempic for approximately six weeks. Despite the trial, the individual reported no weight loss and no change in appetite. “It did not budge the needle,” they expressed.

“For individuals seeking safe and sustainable weight loss, bariatric surgery offers a tailored solution,” explains Dr. Abkin. “Unlike medications, bariatric surgery addresses the underlying factors contributing to obesity, providing long-term benefits.”

Dr. Abkin underscores the genetic and metabolic differences that influence responses to weight loss medications. “While GLP-1 medications may be effective for some, others may not derive significant benefits due to genetic predispositions or metabolic factors,” he remarks. “Bariatric surgery, such as Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy, addresses these factors comprehensively, offering a holistic approach to weight management.”

In contrast to medications, bariatric surgery offers consistent and substantial weight loss outcomes. “Bariatric surgery can result in significant weight loss ranging from 55% to upwards of 80%, depending on procedure type,” highlights Dr. Abkin. “Furthermore, it addresses comorbidities associated with obesity, such as diabetes and hypertension, leading to improved overall health.”

Dr. Abkin emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment strategies for individuals struggling with obesity. “For patients who do not respond to GLP-1 medications, bariatric surgery may offer a viable alternative,” he states. “By addressing the root causes of obesity, bariatric surgery provides sustainable weight loss and improves quality of life.”

Despite the potential benefits of GLP-1 medications for certain individuals, Dr. Abkin advocates for a comprehensive approach to obesity management. “While medications may offer short-term benefits, bariatric surgery provides lasting results,” he concludes. “By empowering patients with effective treatment options, we can combat the challenges of obesity and improve overall health outcomes.”