Tirzepatide Significantly Lowers the Risk of Developing Type 2 Diabetes by 94% in Adults with Pre-Diabetes and Obesity
Key Findings:
- Tirzepatide, a new weekly injection for weight management, reduced the risk of progressing to type 2 diabetes by 94% in adults with pre-diabetes and obesity or overweight.
- The drug also led to significant weight loss over a 3-year period, with an average 22.9% reduction in body weight at the highest dose.
- The study, called SURMOUNT-1, was the longest completed trial of tirzepatide to date, lasting 176 weeks.
Study Overview:
Eli Lilly and Company reported new results from the 3-year SURMOUNT-1 study, which tested the effects of Tirzepatide (sold as Zepbound® and Mounjaro®) on weight loss and diabetes prevention in adults with pre-diabetes and obesity. Participants received once-weekly injections of tirzepatide at doses of 5 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg.
Major Results:
1. Diabetes Risk Reduction: Tirzepatide reduced the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 94% compared to a placebo.
2. Weight Loss: Adults taking the highest dose (15 mg) of tirzepatide lost an average of 22.9% of their body weight, compared to just 2.1% for those on the placebo.
3. Sustained Benefits: The benefits were sustained over 176 weeks, although some weight regain and slight increase in diabetes risk were observed during a 17-week period after stopping the medication.
Safety Profile:
The safety of tirzepatide was consistent with previous studies. The most common side effects were mild to moderate gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, nausea, constipation, and vomiting.
How Tirzepatide Works:
Tirzepatide works by activating receptors for two hormones, GIP and GLP-1, which help regulate appetite and calorie intake. It reduces food intake and enhances insulin sensitivity, potentially lowering blood glucose levels.
Implications:
These results highlight tirzepatide's potential as a long-term treatment for preventing diabetes and managing weight in adults with pre-diabetes and obesity. Detailed findings will be presented at the upcoming ObesityWeek conference.
### About the SURMOUNT-1 Study:
SURMOUNT-1 was a large, international trial comparing tirzepatide to a placebo in adults with pre-diabetes and obesity. The study lasted 176 weeks and involved 1,032 participants.
### About Tirzepatide:
Tirzepatide is a once-weekly injection that targets two hormones to help control appetite and blood sugar. It is approved in the U.S. for managing type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro®) and for adults with obesity or overweight with other health conditions (Zepbound®).
Warnings: Do not use Tirzepatide if you have a personal or family history of certain types of thyroid cancer or a serious allergic reaction to tirzepatide. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and stomach pain.
Risks: Tirzepatide may cause thyroid tumors, severe stomach issues, low blood sugar, vision changes, gallbladder problems, and mood changes. Speak to your healthcare provider about any symptoms or concerns.
This summary is intended to provide key information about Zepbound but does not cover all details. Consult your healthcare provider for more personalized advice.
*SOURCE Eli Lilly and Company
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