Why blockbuster obesity drugs don't work for all

Genetics, hormones and variability in how the brain regulates energy can all influence weight and a person's response to the drugs: Docs

Unlike scores of people who scrambled for the blockbuster drugs Ozempic and Wegovy to lose weight in recent years, Danielle Griffin had no trouble getting them.

The 38-year-old information technology worker from New Mexico had a prescription. Her pharmacy had the drugs in stock. And her health insurance covered all but USD 25 to USD 50 of the monthly cost.

For Griffin, the hardest part of using the new drugs wasn't access. It was finding out that the much-hyped medications didn't really work for her.

"I have been on Wegovy for a year and a half and have only lost 13 pounds," said Griffin, who watches her diet, drinks plenty of water and exercises regularly. "I've done everything right with no success. It's discouraging."