Novo Nordisk (NVO) and Eli Lilly (LLY)’s Weight-Loss Drugs Still Work at Smaller Doses, Study Finds

On August 31, 2026, Reuters reported on a new study finding that patients who stay on the lowest starter doses of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs still lose weight, though far less than at full recommended doses, and experience less nausea. Patients on Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY)'s low-dose tirzepatide lost an average of 5.5% of their body weight over a year, versus 2.2% for Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO)'s low-dose semaglutide, compared with 20.2% and 13.7% respectively at the higher, manufacturer-recommended doses seen in earlier trials. The low-dose tirzepatide group also showed higher rates of certain side effects, including constipation and muscle cramps, than the low-dose semaglutide group.