Serena Williams Sheds 31 Pounds with Zepbound GLP-1 Drug: Discover How

Throughout her life, Williams has endured public scrutiny over her physique. In her HBO documentary, “Being Serena,” a coach discusses her need to lose weight.

Over the years, fans have expressed both admiration and criticism of her body shape.

While deliberating the use of weight-loss medication, Williams told Vogue that she is no longer bothered by public opinion about her body.

“To put it bluntly, I’m not concerned with what people say about my body anymore. What matters to me now is being open about it,” she stated.

Isaacs noted that there is often a stigma attached to obesity that can make individuals feel judged or guilty for using medication to manage their weight.

“Many people blame themselves, although obesity is a biologically and genetically influenced disease, not just a matter of habits or willpower,” he explained.

“Using medication isn’t the easy way out,” said Rekha B. Kumar, MD, senior medical advisor at Cornell University and chief medical officer at Found.

Kumar emphasized that as more high-profile figures discuss their experiences, the stigma surrounding these medications is likely to diminish.

“Individuals like Serena and Oprah have demonstrated that these tools are crucial for tackling weight issues when diet and exercise alone don’t suffice,” she told Healthline.

Zepbound (tirzepatide) is currently the most effective medication available for weight management.

“Tirzepatide works by targeting both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, resulting in greater weight loss and better glucose lowering than medications that target GLP-1 alone,” said Isaacs.

In the SURMOUNT trial, funded by Eli Lilly, those who took tirzepatide experienced greater weight loss compared to those on semaglutide (Ozempic).

After 72 weeks of treatment, participants taking tirzepatide lost 20.2% of their body weight (about 50.3 pounds), while those taking semaglutide lost 13.7% (about 33.1 pounds).

“All GLP-1s are excellent medicines for diabetes and weight control. We often are limited by what insurance covers and occasionally will look at other comorbidities that a medicine is approved for to see if they might be a good fit,” said Kumar.

Isaacs reiterated that insurance coverage is a big determining factor for GLP-1 access. He pointed to CVS Caremark’s recent change. As of July 1, it removed Zepbound from its formulary, which required most patients to switch to Wegovy, regardless of which drug works better for them.

“Even if a patient is doing well on a medication, insurance sometimes forces a switch due to coverage restrictions or deals made behind the scenes,” Isaacs said. “Cost, patient preference, and side effects still matter, but they are all secondary to what the insurance will actually pay for.”

Zepbound is suitable for adults with obesity or overweight who also have weight-related health issues like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or high blood pressure.

It is also indicated for individuals with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea and obesity.

Tirzepatide is beneficial for those with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH, formerly MASH).

“In the SYNERGY-NASH trial, tirzepatide showed significant rates of MASH resolution, up to 62%, compared to 10% with placebo, and improved fibrosis in over 50% of participants,” said Isaacs.

Semaglutide (Wegovy) recently became the first GLP-1 approved by the FDA to treat adults with MASH with moderate-to-advanced fibrosis, based on the phase 3 ESSENCE trial.

“Both medications treat obesity and many related metabolic conditions,” Isaacs said.

Tirzepatide and other GLP1s work by targeting specific biological and hormonal pathways that regulate appetite, cravings, and weight.

“Needing medication for weight is no different than needing it for diabetes or blood pressure, and by treating excess weight, many related medical issues can improve,” said Isaacs. “Choosing to treat obesity is a choice for health, not a sign of weakness. Doing nothing is actually the easier path, but taking action shows real strength.”

Williams continues to maintain a high level of physical activity and a balanced diet while on Zepbound, as seen on her Instagram. She mentioned to Vogue that she gets her protein from beans.

According to Kumar, her approach is appropriate.

“[Zepbound] is a significant tool, and patients need to consider what lifestyle changes they are willing to make because if protein intake and strength training are not maintained, there is a risk of muscle loss and potential fat gain if the medication is discontinued,” she explained.

Anyone considering or using tirzepatide should know that it works best when combined with consistent exercise and a balanced, low-calorie diet, said Isaacs.

“Medications are an important option when lifestyle changes alone are not enough, but they do not replace the need for healthy living,” he stated. “Tirzepatide is a medical therapy, not a quick fix, and it requires ongoing medical supervision.”

Common side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation, especially as the dose increases, are typical.

“Some individuals are ‘super-responders’ and achieve great results with very low doses known as micro-doses, while others may need to increase to the highest dose to achieve the desired effect,” Isaacs added.

He emphasized that most people need to continue tirzepatide long-term as there is a high risk of regaining weight if the medication is discontinued.

“Everyone’s response is different, so an experienced physician should manage dose adjustments and help manage any side effects,” he advised.

Obesity experts can also inform you about newer medications that are transforming obesity care. Isaacs mentioned that more GLP-based medications are expected to arrive soon, including new injectables and lower-cost oral versions.

“We are truly moving into a new era where obesity is managed like any other chronic medical condition, providing hope and effective treatments,” he concluded.