Could a New Enzyme Make Weight Loss Drugs Last Longer and Become More Affordable?

Weight loss drugs are still too expensive for a lot of people. This study provides hope that the drugs become cheaper and stronger.

How? The enzyme is supposed to make drugs like Ozempic last longer and work more efficiently. So, that could mean more bang for your buck because theoretically, you wouldn’t have to renew your prescription as often.

How does this enzyme work?

Researchers have found an enzyme that can “lock” peptide drugs into stronger, longer-lasting ring structures, potentially boosting treatments like Ozempic:

“This simple enzymatic trick could help drugs stay active in the body far longer and work more effectively. Researchers at the University of Utah have identified an enzyme called PapB that can reshape therapeutic peptides, a class of protein-like drugs, by linking their ends together into tight rings. This process, known as macrocyclization, creates compact structures that can improve how these medicines perform in the body.”

Could Microdosing Make Ozempic and Wegovy Cheaper?

Yes, potentially. But GoodRX says be careful, and beware of the risks:

“Microdosing carries real risks, including inaccurate doses, reduced effectiveness, and other safety issues. If you think you need a smaller GLP-1 dose, talk to your prescriber about your options.”

For me, none of the weight loss drugs are worth it. I doubt microdosing would completely eliminate the potential gut side effects.

Even the possibility of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea is a non starter.

In this Reddit thread, the OP is asking whether weight loss drugs really are a silver bullet. The commenters seem to agree that yes, the medication is life-changing, but you still need to do the work on yourself:

“For me, adding semaglutide was more to reduce food noise and the associated stress, because I have a lot of other behaviors I'm working on right now and I don't want to feel so overwhelmed. I'm losing a bit faster on it, maybe an extra pound or two per month. The big thing is just that it's assisting me and my stress levels; I'm not constantly fighting food urges.

When I go off of it, the urges will return. But I'm working diligently on mental health, establishing healthy behaviors, and in particular establishing healthy coping mechanisms.”

How to Make Old Fashioned Diet and Exercise Work Better

According to this Mayo Clinic article, the key is to combine both strength and aerobic activity:

“Get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week. Or get 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week. You also can get an equal mix of the two types.

Aim to exercise most days of the week. For even more health benefits, strive for 300 minutes a week or more of moderate aerobic activity or 150 minutes of vigorous activity. Exercising this much may help with weight loss or keeping off lost weight. But even small amounts of physical activity can be helpful. Being active for short periods of time during the day can add up and give you great health benefits.

Do strength training exercises for all major muscle groups at least two times a week. One set of each exercise is enough for health and fitness benefits. Use a weight or resistance level heavy enough to tire your muscles after about 12 to 15 repetitions.”

I know, nothing new. But I keep having to remind myself that both cardio and strength training are important. Because sure enough, if I give up one or the other, I see it on the scale!

I try to vary my routine so that exercise is still fun, and I use different muscles. For instance, if I do a short Peloton ride, I’ll make sure to walk more that day and vice versa.

Sounds cliche, but I find the old adage true, that if you make exercising fun, you will stick with it.