Hormonal
GLP-1 receptor agonists (liraglutide, semaglutide) and dual GIP/GLP-1 agonists (tirzepatide) produce significant, sustained weight loss (5-20% body weight reduction) in adults with obesity or overweight with comorbidities, primarily by delaying gastric emptying and reducing central appetite signaling.
If you have obesity or overweight with related health issues, GLP-1 medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide are currently the most effective pharmacological tools available in Europe. They work by mimicking hormones that tell your brain you are full and slowing down digestion. While they require weekly injections and may cause temporary stomach issues, they can lead to significant, sustained weight loss (often 15% or more) when combined with diet and exercise changes. Older weight loss drugs are largely unavailable due to safety risks.
GLP-1 analogues cause a delay in gastric emptying, which translates into a prolonged feeling of postprandial satiety. Through a central inhibitory effect on the subjective sense of satiety, GLP-1 analogues may present a positive effect on the induction of weight loss.
Why this rating
The paper cites large, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials (STEP 5, NEJM studies) published in high-impact journals.
Source
Review of upcoming and currently available anti-obesity drugs in Europe
Patryk Gryszkiewicz et al. · Journal of Education Health and Sport · 2023
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