Tackling Obesity with New FDA-Approved Drug Zepbound
New Era in Weight Management with Tirzepatide-Based Treatment
Pharmacological treatments against obesity represent hope and, at the same time, a reality to treat and, in some cases, cure this serious disease and many others.
The medication Zepbound was approved today by the FDA, which has marked a new advance in the fight against obesity. This medication, which is expected to be available in the United States by the end of the year, contains tirzepatide, an active ingredient also present in Mounjaro, a diabetes treatment.
Tirzepatide, the active substance in Zepbound, slows stomach emptying, making people feel full more quickly and for extended periods. The medication acts on the area of the brain that controls appetite, helping to reduce uncontrollable desires to eat.
In recent years, Ozempic and Wegovy have been very popular; they work to improve the health of patients with type 2 diabetes and for weight loss. It has also meant an economic boom for Novo Nordisk company and its country of origin, Denmark.
Other drugs mimic only one hormone, but tirzepatide mimics two, which may be the reason for its greater effectiveness in producing more significant weight loss. In a 72-week study, participants with obesity lost approximately 18% of their body weight on the highest dose of tirzepatide.
Zepbound has been approved for use in people with a body mass index of 30 or more or those with a BMI of 27 who have weight-related conditions such as hypertension. This medication is recommended with a low-calorie diet and a plan to increase physical activity.
However, only some respond the same to this type of medication. Some may not lose significant weight with semaglutide, a similar compound, but may do so with tirzepatide and vice versa. Additionally, certain patients, such as those at risk for heart failure or liver disease, could significantly benefit from significant weight loss with Zepbound.
It is essential to consider the cost and insurance coverage together. Although details vary by insurance plan, some insurance companies will likely cover Zepbound for those who meet FDA criteria. Eli Lilly has indicated that the list price for Zepbound will be $1059.87, although insurance coverage could reduce the cost for patients.
Side effects include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation. Other symptoms were headache, dizziness, belching, hair loss, and gastroesophageal reflux disease. Because tirzepatide is a new medication, only some of its long-term effects are known.
Final Thoughts
It is recommended that all patients consult their doctors to evaluate the convenience of using Zepbound in each particular case. Obesity is multifactorial, including endocrine, psychological, and cultural factors, which must be assessed appropriately. Therefore, the treatment must be personalized for each patient.
