Tirzepatide for Weight Loss

Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Mounjaro, a medication by Eli Lilly. It is a dual agonist of the GLP-1 and GIP receptors, which control appetite.

It not only suppresses appetite, but it also improves satiety, delays stomach emptying, improves insulin sensitivity, and benefits the heart and cholesterol levels.

Indications and Mechanism of Action

Tirzepatide treats type II diabetes, prediabetes, and obesity. It reduces insulin resistance, as reflected by Hb A1c and fasting glucose levels. It also helps with weight loss.

Pricing

$750/month vs. commercial $2,200/month.

Weight Loss with Tirzepatide

In clinical trials lasting 72 weeks, adults with obesity experienced mean weight losses of 15 to 21 percent with the highest dose of tirzepatide (15 mg weekly), with many maintaining long-term weight loss. Weight reduction was dose dependent, meaning weight loss was increased with higher doses, but weight loss was experienced at all doses. While direct comparisons are limited, tirzepatide shows a greater magnitude of weight loss compared to other agents. Given the significant weight loss observed with tirzepatide, it stands out as a preferred medication for chronic weight management.” [1, 2]

Does Tirzepatide Cause Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is a possible side effect. Rapid weight loss (>2 lbs weight loss/week) can lead to gallstones and bile duct obstruction, inflaming the pancreas. Moderate alcohol use to avoid further risk. Screening for pancreatitis history is important, but the risk is lower for those without such a history.

If you experience sharp abdominal pain, especially after eating, contact your doctor.

Can You Take Tirzepatide with Metformin?

Yes, Tirzepatide and Metformin can be taken together to control insulin resistance in type II diabetics and prediabetic patients.

Can You Drink Alcohol While on Tirzepatide?

Heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of pancreatitis and is not recommended. Moderate alcohol consumption is safe.

Are Tirzepatide and Ozempic the Same Thing?

No, they are similar but different. Tirzepatide is a dual agonist of GLP-1 and GIP receptors, acting on gastric and neurological pathways. Ozempic primarily acts on the GLP-1 receptor. Both are effective for weight loss and managing type II diabetes and insulin resistance, but Tirzepatide is considered a newer, slightly improved class of medication.

1. Jastreboff AM, Aronne LJ, Ahmad NN, et al. Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. N Engl J Med 2022; 387:205.
2. Garvey WT, Frias JP, Jastreboff AM, et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity in people with type 2 diabetes (SURMOUNT-2): a double-blind, randomised, multicentre, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial. Lancet 2023; 402:613.