Scientists discover why Ozempic works better for some people

Scientists discover why Ozempic works better for some people | ScienceDaily Science News from research organizations Scientists discover why Ozempic works better for some people Ozempic-like drugs may work far better for “see-food” eaters than emotional eaters, according to new research. Date: May 7, 2026 Source: Frontiers Summary: Some people taking Ozempic-like diabetes drugs may be getting dramatically better results for a surprising reason: why they overeat in the first place. A year-long study in Japan found that people who tend to eat because tempting food looks or smells irresistible were much more likely to lose weight and improve blood sugar levels on GLP-1 medications. But people who eat mainly in response to stress, sadness, or emotional struggles didn’t see the same long-term benefits. Share: Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIN Email FULL STORY Scientists found that Ozempic-like drugs may work best for people who overeat because tempting food catches their attention, rather than for emotional eaters. Credit: Shutterstock GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic have transformed treatment for many people with type 2 diabetes by helping lower blood sugar and support weight loss. But researchers are finding that these medications do not work equally well for everyone. A new study from Japan suggests that a person's eating habits and the reasons behind overeating may play a major role in how successful these drugs are over time. Scientists followed 92 people with diabetes during their first year of treatment with GLP-1 receptor agonists. The results showed that people who tended to overeat because food looked or smelled appealing were more likely to see long term benefits from the drugs. In contrast, people who ate mainly in response to stress or emotions were less likely to respond as well. "Pre-treatment assessment of eating behavior patterns may help predict who will benefit most from GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy," said Prof Daisuke Yabe of Kyoto Universit