Tirzepatide for Weight Loss

Introduction:

Tirzepatide is an FDA-approved medication for the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes. A once-weekly injection, tirzepatide, activates glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors in the body. (1) Tirzepatide reduces blood glucose levels and appetite, promoting weight loss.

Benefits

Tirzepatide benefits include::

1. Significant weight loss: In clinical trials, patients who took Tirzepatide lost an average of 21% of their body weight over a period of 72 weeks.(4)
2. Improved glycemic control: Tirzepatide lowers blood glucose levels by stimulating insulin secretion and inhibiting glucagon secretion.
3. Reduced cardiovascular risk: In addition to promoting weight loss and glycemic control, Tirzepatide reduces the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes.(5)

Side Effects(6)

Tirzepatide can cause several side effects, including:

• Gastrointestinal effects: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These side effects are more common when starting treatment and may improve over time.
• Hypoglycemia: Tirzepatide may cause hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels) when used in combination with other diabetes medications such as insulin or sulfonylureas. We have not seen this in our clinical practice.
• Pancreatitis: There are reports of acute pancreatitis in patients taking Tirzepatide. Caution should be taken with patients with a history of pancreatitis or gallbladder disease..
• Thyroid tumors: In animal studies, at extremely high doses, Tirzepatide may cause thyroid tumors. Patients with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 should refrain from Tirzepatide..

Contraindications(7)

Tirzepatide is contraindicated for use in patients with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome

Tirzepatide is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of a rare condition called hereditary or acquired pancreatitis.

Use with caution in patients with a history of severe gastrointestinal disease or gastroparesis. should also use Tirzepatide with caution.

Dosing Schedule(8)

Tirzepatide is given as a subcutaneous injection once a week. The starting dose is 5 mg, which is gradually increased to 15 mg over a period of 12 weeks.

The injection can be given in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate injection sites to minimize the risk of skin reactions. If a dose is missed, take as soon as possible within 3 days of the missed dose. If more than 3 days have passed, the next scheduled dose should be taken.

Conclusion

Tirzepatide is a once-weekly injection effective in promoting weight loss and improving glycemic control in patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes.