GLP-1 Weight Loss Statistics & Data (2026)
Key statistics from published clinical trials on GLP-1 weight loss medications. Data sourced from STEP, SURMOUNT, and SCALE trials.
Last updated: July 2026
Average Weight Loss by Medication
| Medication | Active Ingredient | Avg. Weight Loss | Trial | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wegovy | Semaglutide 2.4mg | ~15% of body weight | STEP 1 | 68 weeks |
| Zepbound | Tirzepatide 15mg | Up to 22.5% of body weight | SURMOUNT-1 | 72 weeks |
| Ozempic | Semaglutide 2mg | ~10–12% of body weight | SUSTAIN | 40 weeks |
| Mounjaro | Tirzepatide 15mg | Up to 22.5% of body weight | SURMOUNT-1 | 72 weeks |
| Saxenda | Liraglutide 3mg | ~5–8% of body weight | SCALE | 56 weeks |
Source: Published clinical trial results. Individual results vary.
Monthly Cost Comparison (2026)
| Option | Monthly Cost | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Wegovy (brand-name) | $1,300–$1,400/month | Medication only |
| Ozempic (brand-name) | $900–$1,000/month | Medication only |
| Zepbound (brand-name) | $1,000–$1,100/month | Medication only |
| Compounded semaglutide | $199–$400/month | Medication + consultations + delivery |
| Compounded tirzepatide | $300–$500/month | Medication + consultations + delivery |
Source: Retail pricing and telehealth provider rates as of July 2026. Prices may vary by provider.
Most Common Side Effects
| Side Effect | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea | 40–45% | 35–40% |
| Diarrhea | ~30% | ~25% |
| Vomiting | ~25% | ~20% |
| Constipation | ~24% | ~20% |
Source: Published clinical trial safety data. Side effects typically improve over time and with dose stabilization.
Weight Loss Timeline
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Week 1–2 | Reduced appetite, early satiety, possible mild nausea |
| Month 1 | 3–5 lbs weight loss (starting dose) |
| Month 2–3 | 5–10% body weight loss as dose increases |
| Month 6 | 10–15% body weight loss (semaglutide) or 15–20% (tirzepatide) |
| Month 12–16 | Maximum results: 15% (semaglutide) to 22.5% (tirzepatide) |
Source: Clinical trial averages. Individual results vary based on medication, dose, diet, and exercise.
Who Qualifies for GLP-1 Treatment?
According to FDA-approved prescribing criteria, GLP-1 weight loss medications are indicated for adults with:
- BMI ≥ 30 (obesity)
- BMI ≥ 27 with at least one weight-related condition (type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, sleep apnea)
Read our complete eligibility guide or take our quiz to check if you qualify.
Key Facts About GLP-1 Weight Loss
- Most effective prescription weight loss: GLP-1 medications produce 3–5x more weight loss than older weight loss drugs and lifestyle intervention alone.
- Once-weekly injection: Both semaglutide and tirzepatide are administered as once-weekly subcutaneous injections.
- Gradual dose escalation: Treatment starts at a low dose and increases monthly over 16–20 weeks to minimize side effects.
- Available online: Licensed telehealth providers can prescribe GLP-1 medications through fully online medical evaluations, with home delivery in most US states.
- Weight regain risk: The STEP 1 trial extension showed approximately two-thirds of weight lost was regained within one year of stopping semaglutide, supporting the case for ongoing treatment.
- Dual-agonist advantage: Tirzepatide targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, which may explain its superior weight loss results compared to semaglutide.
Compare GLP-1 Providers
See how the top telehealth weight loss providers compare on pricing, medications, and support.