Tell us: have you tried GLP-1 drugs but they haven't worked?

We want to hear from people for whom GLP-1 medications, like Wegovy and Mounjaro, have not been effective.

Published 28 July 2026 420 words
SCIENCE C1
Tell us: have you tried GLP-1 drugs but they haven't worked?

The Guardian is looking to speak with individuals who have tried GLP-1 medications, such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, but have not experienced the desired results. These drugs are often prescribed for weight management and diabetes control.

It is estimated that between 5% and 10% of people who use GLP-1 drugs fall into the category of not responding well to them. We are interested in understanding your personal experience. Were the medications too difficult to tolerate due to side effects? Or did you use them for a significant amount of time without noticing any positive changes?

Did you face any social disapproval or negative judgment because you were using these drugs or because they weren't working for you? We are also curious about what other methods or approaches you are currently employing to achieve the health goals you had initially hoped to reach with GLP-1 treatments.

Understanding the reasons behind a lack of response is important for medical research. Factors can include individual biology, the specific medication used, dosage, and duration of treatment. For some, the side effects can be a major hurdle, preventing them from continuing the treatment long enough to see potential benefits.

For those who experienced no benefit, it raises questions about the effectiveness of GLP-1s for everyone and highlights the need for alternative solutions. The journey to manage weight or diabetes can be complex, and not having access to effective treatments can be disheartening.

We are gathering stories to provide a broader perspective on the use of these popular medications. Your experiences could help others who are in a similar situation or inform healthcare professionals about the varied responses to GLP-1 drugs. Sharing your journey can contribute valuable insights into the ongoing conversation about these treatments.

Vocabulary

medications — drugs or other medical treatments that are used to cure or treat illness or pain.
prescribed — officially advised or ordered as a treatment, usually by a doctor.
management — the process of dealing with or controlling things or people.
estimated — approximately calculated or judged.
tolerate — to be able to accept, experience, or survive something unpleasant or difficult.
significant — important or noticeable enough to have an effect or to be noticed.
stigma — a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.
alternative — available as another possibility or choice.
approaches — ways of dealing with something or someone.
complex — consisting of many different and connected parts; complicated.

Discussion Questions

  1. Why do you think some people do not respond to GLP-1 drugs while others do?
  2. What are some potential alternative approaches for individuals who do not benefit from GLP-1 medications?
  3. How might societal attitudes towards weight and medication affect people's experiences with drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro?

Based on an article from The Guardian.

Read the original article