Eli Lilly’s Revolutionary New Obesity Treatment, Is Finally Here
In a significant development, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval for Eli Lilly’s eagerly anticipated obesity treatment, introducing a formidable competitor to Novo Nordisk’s widely acclaimed weight-loss therapy, Wegovy.
Marketed under the name Zepbound, this once-weekly injection shares the same active ingredient as Lilly’s successful type 2 diabetes treatment, Mounjaro. This article delves into the key aspects of Zepbound, providing insights based on the FDA-approved label and clinical trial data.
Tip: Fill out this form to check if you or a friend qualify for Glucose Monitoring Devices.
Eligibility Criteria
The FDA has greenlit Zepbound for adults categorized as obese according to the Body Mass Index (BMI). Individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher qualify for the drug, as do those with a BMI of 27 or higher if they have at least one weight-related condition relating to one’s health, such as diabetes or hypertension. .
To maximize effectiveness, the drug should be complemented by a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Notably, Zepbound is not to be used concurrently with other drugs falling under the GLP-1 receptor agonists category.
Must Read CGMs in noncritical care hospitals optimizes glycemic control
Mechanism of Action
Belonging to the GLP-1 class of drugs, akin to Wegovy and Novo’s Ozempic, Zepbound was originally designed to regulate blood sugar in type 2 diabetes patients.
Beyond its blood sugar control properties, the drug also exhibits the ability to decelerate digestion and reduce hunger. While Ozempic and Wegovy share semaglutide as their active ingredient, Mounjaro and Zepbound both contain tirzepatide.
Safety Considerations
Warning on Thyroid C-Cell Tumors
The drug’s label includes a cautionary note about its potential to cause thyroid C-cell tumors in rats, a phenomenon observed with Wegovy as well. Zepbound is contraindicated for patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or those with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2, a rare genetic condition leading to endocrine system tumors.
Read Guide about Wegovy Dosage Guide: The Best Way For Weight Loss
Other Safety Warnings
Zepbound shares safety warnings akin to Wegovy, encompassing the risk of severe gastrointestinal disease, kidney and pancreatitis-related issues, hypersensitivity reactions, and potential suicidal behavior and ideation. It is also advised against usage during pregnancy due to the risk of fetal harm.
Efficacy Insights
In clinical trials, Zepbound demonstrated notable efficacy. Participants, on average, lost 48 pounds (21.8 kg) at the highest dose and 34 pounds (15.4 kg) on average at the lower dose. Additionally, some patients achieved a remarkable loss of over 25% of their body weight during the trials.
Also, read about Investigating Hospitalizations Linked to Suspected Fake Ozempic
Addressing Safety Concerns
While Zepbound presents a promising solution to combat obesity, it is essential to consider potential side effects. Common safety issues include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal discomfort, and pain. The drug’s label also lists other adverse effects, such as injection site reactions, fatigue, burping, hair loss, and gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Conclusion
Eli Lilly’s Zepbound emerges as a potent contender in the realm of obesity treatment, offering a viable alternative to existing therapies. As the pharmaceutical landscape evolves, ongoing monitoring of safety and efficacy, along with adherence to usage guidelines, will be crucial.
Patients and healthcare professionals must stay informed about the latest developments in the obesity treatment landscape, ensuring informed decision-making and optimal health outcomes.
