There’s no denying it - weight-loss medications like Mounjaro, Wegovy and Saxenda work for a lot of people! GLP-1 medications aid in weight loss by reducing appetite, slowing digestion, and stimulating insulin release. At NYBG, we offer individualized treatment plans and support to help patients lose weight with GLP-1 medications. However, these medications don’t work for everyone.
In clinical trials, more than 13% of participants using Wegovy and 9% of those using Zepbound and Mounjaro were considered “non-responders” to the medications. There are many reasons why someone might not be responding to injectable weight-loss medications.
While oral and injectable weight-loss medications can be an effective short-term strategy, the long-term success and safety are still being researched and are unknown.
Here are some of the reasons these medications may not be working for you and how NYBG’s Medical Weight Loss Program can help.
Giving the Medication Time to Work
The simple answer may be time. On average it takes about 12 weeks to start seeing results from these medications. During the first month, your body is adjusting to the medication. At the two month mark, there are usually early signs of weight loss, but this can vary from person to person. By the 12-week point, most users start to see noticeable weight loss. Someone with a faster metabolism may see quicker results, but if you have a slower metabolism, it might take longer.
Taking the Right Dose
Not seeing the results you were hoping for? You may need your dose adjusted. Typically, users are prescribed a lower dose to get started in order to minimize side effects. The dose gradually increases over time depending on a person’s response to the medication. For some, the lower dose may not be effective and will need to be increased.
Underlying Health Conditions
Health conditions such as hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and insulin resistance can affect how quickly you see results. These conditions may require additional management alongside the weight-loss medic