Have you heard about Tirzepatide? Initially approved by the FDA for treating type 2 diabetes, this medication has also shown remarkable potential for weight loss [1]. Doctors have started using it off-label to help people who are obese or overweight shed weight, offering a ray of hope in their weight loss journey.
Tirzepatide works by targeting the gut receptors, a mechanism that helps control blood sugar and promotes significant weight reduction.
A leading panel under the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), India’s national regulatory authority for pharmaceuticals and medical devices, has recently recommended approval for importing and marketing Tirzepatide in India.
Let us delve into the know-how of this medication and see if it can help you.
Did You Know?
India might be facing an obesity epidemic, with about 40% of women and 12% of men affected.[2] Tirzepatide and the right diet and exercise might help lose chronic weight.
Who Can Benefit From Tirzepatide?
-Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: Initially approved for managing type 2 diabetes, tirzepatide also aids in weight loss.
-Individuals with Obesity: Tirzepatide can be used off-label for weight loss in people with a BMI indicating obesity.
-Individuals with Risk Factors: Individuals with obesity-related health issues, such as hypertension or cardiovascular disease, may benefit from tirzepatide for weight management.
-People Struggling with Weight Management: Those who have yet to achieve desired weight loss through diet and exercise alone.
Reassuring Advantages Of Using Tirzepatide
-Better Blood Sugar Control: Tirzepatide helps significantly lower blood sugar levels, making it an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes.
-Promotes Healthy Weight Loss: It supports sustainable weight loss by targeting appetite and metabolism, leading to healthier weight management.
Studies have shown that 94% of people using tirzepatide kept most of their weight off, compared to 44% of people who took a placebo.[4]
-Enhanced Quality of Life: Users often report an improved quality of life due to better health and increased energy levels from weight loss and diabetes management.
-Decreased Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases: By aiding in weight loss and better blood sugar control, Tirzepatide reduces the risk of obesity-related cardiovascular diseases.
-Effects Are Long-Lasting: The benefits of Tirzepatide, including weight loss and blood sugar control, are sustained over a long period, offering lasting health improvements.
-Weight Management is Better: Clinical studies suggest that Tirzepatide is more effective in managing weight than other available medications.[5]
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How is Tirzepatide used?|
Tirzepatide is administered once a week via a subcutaneous (under-the-skin) injection using an autoinjector pen.
It is sold under the brand names Mounjaro for diabetes treatment and Zepbound for weight loss.
Common Side Effects of Tirzepatide
-Nausea
-Diarrhea
-Decreased appetite
-Vomiting
-Constipation
-Indigestion
Though severe side effects are rare, some of the complications from using tirzepatide include:[6]
-Low blood sugar
-Severe allergic reaction
-Kidney and liver issues
-Pancreatitis
-Severe digestive problems
-Vision changes
-Gallbladder complications
Points To Consider Before Using Tirzepatide
-Inform About Allergies: Let your doctor know if you are allergic to tirzepatide or any of the ingredients in this medicine.
-Medical History: Inform your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or pancreatic disease, diabetic retinopathy, or any stomach issues such as difficulty digesting food.
-Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Tell your doctor if you plan to become pregnant, are currently pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while taking this medicine, notify your doctor immediately.
Note: Tirzepatide should not be used in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).[6]|
Final Takeaway
Tirzepatide provides significant benefits for individuals with type 2 diabetes and those seeking weight loss, offering improved blood sugar control and a substantial weight reduction, instilling hope and motivation in the journey towards a healthier weight.
(The article is written by Dr. Nitika Makhija, Manager, Clinical Health and Content and is reviewed by Dr. Swati Mishra, Medical Editor)
Sources:
1. Available online at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK585056/
2. Available online at
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lansea/article/PIIS2772-3682(23)00068-9/fulltext
3. Available online at
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-medication-chronic-weight-management
4. Available online at https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-023-02597
5. Available online at https://dom-pubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/dom.14940
6. Available online at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/215866s000lbl.pdf