New Diabetes Drug Mounjaro Approved for Weight Loss

The US Food and Drug Administration has approved Eli Lillys Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for weight loss. The drug helped dieters lose about a quarter of their body weight, or 60 pounds (27 kilograms), in a recent study.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new version of the popular diabetes treatment Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for weight loss. The drug, developed by Eli Lilly and Co., helped dieters lose about a quarter of their body weight, or 60 pounds (27 kilograms), in a recent study.

How Does it Work?

Tirzepatide works by mimicking hormones that kick in after people eat to regulate appetite and the feeling of fullness. It targets two hormones, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). Both hormones play a role in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite.

Who is it For?

The FDA approved Zepbound for people who are considered obese, with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or those who are overweight with a related health condition, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. The drug should be paired with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Weight Loss Results

In a recent study, people taking tirzepatide lost about 15% of their body weight, or 34 pounds (15.4 kilograms). This is more than the weight loss seen with Wegovy (semaglutide), another GLP-1 receptor agonist that was approved for weight loss in 2021. Wegovy helped people lose about 15% of their body weight, or 34 pounds (15.4 kilograms).

Side Effects

Common side effects of tirzepatide include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and other gastrointestinal problems. In the most recent published trial, about 10% of people taking tirzepatide dropped out of the study because of such problems, compared to about 2% of people taking dummy shots.

Cost and Availability

The list price for Zepbound will be about USD 1,000 a month, the same as Mounjaro. Medicare is prohibited from covering drugs specifically for weight loss. It is unclear how many people will be able to afford the drug without insurance coverage.

The approval of tirzepatide for weight loss is a significant development in the fight against obesity. The drug has been shown to be effective in helping people lose weight and improve their health. However, it is important to note that the drug is not a magic bullet. It should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Additionally, the high cost of the drug may make it inaccessible to many people.