Novo Nordisk survey finds Wegovy reduces food noise and improves mental well-being in people with obesity

The survey revealed that the proportion of individuals experiencing constant thoughts about food throughout the day declined by 46 percent after starting Wegovy

Novo Nordisk announced new findings from the US-based INFORM survey, presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) 2025 in Vienna, Austria. The results highlight that people taking semaglutide for weight management (Wegovy) experienced not only significant weight loss but also a notable reduction in “food noise” – the unwanted and intrusive thoughts about food that can undermine weight loss efforts and overall well-being.

The survey revealed that the proportion of individuals experiencing constant thoughts about food throughout the day declined by 46 percent after starting Wegovy, dropping from 62 percent before treatment to 16 percent while on treatment. Respondents also reported that the negative impact of food noise on their daily lives decreased substantially, from 60 percent prior to treatment to just 20 percent while on Wegovy.

In addition to reduced food noise, participants reported meaningful improvements in mental well-being and lifestyle. Nearly two-thirds (64 percent) noted improved mental health since beginning treatment, while large majorities said they developed a healthier lifestyle (76 percent) and healthier habits (80 percent). Overall, 83 percent of participants expressed satisfaction with their Wegovy treatment.

“There are so many factors that challenge people with overweight or obesity in their efforts to lose weight, including food noise,” said Filip Knop, MD PhD, senior vice president and incoming chief medical officer at Novo Nordisk. “It is very encouraging to see these new data showing that, beyond weight loss, Wegovy may help quiet disruptive thoughts about food, support improved mental well-being and empower people to live healthier lives.”

Novo Nordisk continues to explore how obesity impacts individuals’ daily lives. At EASD 2025, the company will also present findings from the STEP UP clinical trial, which investigated eating behaviour and control of eating with semaglutide. Together with recently published results from STEP UP and STEP UP T2D in Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, these findings reinforce the broad health benefits of semaglutide in people with obesity, extending well beyond its established role in weight management.