Semaglutide Shows Significant Weight Loss Benefits for Older Adults with Obesity
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A new analysis of clinical trial data shows that adults aged 65 and older with obesity experienced substantial weight loss and improved cardiometabolic health when treated with semaglutide. After 68 weeks, participants receiving the 2.4 mg dose lost an average of 15.4% of their body weight, compared to 5.1% for those on a placebo. The treatment also led to significant reductions in waist circumference and improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar measures.
Facts First
- Adults over 65 lost an average of 15.4% body weight with semaglutide versus 5.1% with placebo.
- Nearly half (46.8%) of the semaglutide group achieved at least 15% weight loss, compared to 6.4% on placebo.
- Waist circumference decreased by 14.3 cm on average in the treatment group, a key indicator of reduced abdominal fat.
- Cardiometabolic risk factors improved, including blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar measures.
- Serious adverse events were reported in 19.0% of the semaglutide group and 12.7% of the placebo group.
What Happened
Researchers analyzed data from six STEP clinical trials to examine the effects of semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic, on 358 adults aged 65 and older with obesity. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either a 2.4 mg dose of semaglutide or a placebo, alongside lifestyle interventions. The analysis, led by Professor Luca Busetto of the University of Padova and including researchers from manufacturer Novo Nordisk, evaluated outcomes over 68 weeks.
Why this Matters to You
If you or a family member is an older adult living with obesity, this analysis provides evidence that semaglutide could be a powerful tool for significant weight loss and improving related health markers. The results suggest that, under medical supervision, this treatment may help reduce the health risks associated with excess weight, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol. However, the higher rate of serious adverse events in the treatment group indicates that the decision to use this medication should involve a careful discussion with a doctor about its potential benefits and risks for an individual's specific health situation.
What's Next
The findings from this pooled analysis are likely to inform clinical guidelines and discussions between doctors and older patients about weight management options. Further research may be needed to understand the long-term effects of semaglutide in this age group and to identify which individuals are most likely to benefit from the treatment while minimizing risks.