Comparing the effectiveness of different weight management programs

The Comparative Effectiveness of Commercial Weight Management Programs in Adults Living With Overweight or Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial

NA · WW International Inc · NCT06972277

This study tests which of three different weight management programs helps people with obesity or overweight lose the most weight over 12 weeks.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment459 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorWW International Inc (industry)
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT06972277 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the efficacy of three commercial weight management programs in helping participants achieve weight loss. Participants will be randomized to one of the programs and monitored for changes in weight over a 12-week period. The primary outcomes measured will include both absolute and percentage weight change. The study aims to determine which program is most effective for individuals with obesity or overweight conditions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or higher who are willing to comply with the study protocol.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, have a history of eating disorders, or are currently engaged in another structured weight loss program may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could help identify the most effective weight management program for individuals struggling with obesity.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown varying success with commercial weight management programs, but this specific comparison approach is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 years or older
* BMI ≥27 kg/m²
* Own a bodyweight scale that they can weigh themselves with during the study
* Willing and able to comply with study protocol
* Capable of providing informed consent
* Able to read and write in English
* Willing to be randomized
* Willing to sign a Non Disclosure Agreement

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnant, lactating, or plans to become pregnant in the next 6 months
* Previous bariatric surgery or planned bariatric surgery during the study period
* Major surgery within the past 6 months or plans to have surgery during the study period
* Participation in the previous 3 months or current participation in a structured behavioral weight loss program
* Participation in another structured weight loss program during the study period (i.e., the next 3 months)
* Communication needs that would render them unable to understand the study and/or intervention materials
* Current or previous history of anorexia or bulimia nervosa
* Engagement with vomiting or laxative use within the last 28 days with the aim of controlling their shape or weight
* Currently taking anti-obesity medications, planning to take anti-obesity medications in the next 6 months, or previously taken anti-obesity medications in the previous 3 months
* Weight loss of ≥ 5 kg (11 lb) in the previous 6 months
* Self-reported diagnosis of severe depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, or psychosis
* Participants who are involved in any other research studies at this time
* Untreated thyroid disease or any changes (type or dose) in thyroid medication in last 6 months
* Chronic/inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders (irritable bowel syndrome is acceptable)
* History of heart problems (e.g., angina, bypass surgery, myocardial infarction, etc.) within previous 6 months
* Diagnosis of type 1 or type 2 diabetes
* Presence of implanted cardiac defibrillator or pacemaker
* History of cancer within past 5 years or current treatment for cancer
* Hospitalization for psychiatric disorders during the last 12 months

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Obesity and Overweight

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.