Tirzepatide: Possible Weight Loss Treatment

Losing weight can be really hard. Many people try diets, exercise, and different health plans, but still find it difficult to get the results they want. Now, there is a new medicine that is helping some people lose a lot of weight. It is called tirzepatide, and it is starting to get a lot of attention.

Tirzepatide was first made to help people with type 2 diabetes. But during testing, doctors noticed something surprising. People who took this medicine also lost a lot of weight. Because of this, tirzepatide is now being used to help with weight loss too.

In the EU and other countries, tirzepatide is sold under two names. It is called Mounjaro when used for diabetes, and Zepbound when used to help people lose weight.

What makes tirzepatide different is how it works in the body. It helps control your blood sugar and also helps you feel less hungry. This means people can eat less without feeling starved, which can lead to steady weight loss over time.

But just like any medicine, it is important to understand how it works, what the side effects might be, and whether it is the right choice for you.

In this blog, we will explain how tirzepatide works, what scientists have found in their studies, and what real people are saying about their results. You will also learn about the risks, how to use it safely, and how much it costs.

Let us take a closer look at this new weight loss treatment and see if it could be the right fit for your journey to better health.

What is Tirzepatide?

Tirzepatide is a type of medicine that helps people lose weight and manage their blood sugar levels. It is given as an injection, usually once a week. At first, it was made to help people with type 2 diabetes, but doctors soon saw that it also helped many people lose a lot of weight. Because of this, it is now used for both diabetes and weight loss.

Tirzepatide is sold under two names:

• Mounjaro: for people with type 2 diabetes
  
  
• Zepbound: for people who want to lose weight
  
  

Even though it is the same medicine, the way it is used may be slightly different depending on what it is treating.

How does Tirzepatide Work?

As far as type 2 diabetes medications go, tirzepatide is in a class of its own when it comes to treating it. The single molecule mimics insulin and glucagon-like peptide-1, which help lower blood sugar in the body. Several studies have shown that both hormones have diminished effects in persons with type 2 diabetes and can result in elevated blood glucose levels. Therefore, targeting these receptors in the design of a medication for the treatment of diabetes isn't a new concept. For years, various GLP-1 receptor agonists have been used to treat obesity, type-2 diabetes, and various other disorders. These medications are similar to the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone produced in the body. The combination of an HCG and a GLP-1 is a new way of administering a hormone and has shown even greater benefits when compared to administering each hormone individually. As a result of its action on GLP-1 and GIP receptors throughout the body, tirzepatide is beneficial for reducing blood sugar levels and losing weight due to its increased insulin sensitivity, increased insulin secretion, slowed stomach emptying, and reduction of food intake.

What is Tirzepatide Proven to Treat?

In adults with type 2 diabetes, tirzepatide is used with dietary changes and regular exercise to improve blood sugar levels. A clinical trial conducted on people with type 2 diabetes showed that the drug significantly improved their haemoglobin A1c levels when taking the highest dosage - a 2.3% decrease when taking the highest dose. Compared with Ozempic 1 mg (a common GLP-1 receptor agonist used for type 2 diabetes), this represents a reduction of 1.9% compared to long-acting insulin, which shows a reduction of 1.4%. In addition, 95% of patients prescribed tirzepatide achieved an A1c of less than 7.0%, indicating that their diabetes had been effectively managed.

What Do the Studies Say?

Before any new medicine is given to the public, it must go through careful testing. Scientists do this through clinical trials, where they test the medicine on people to see if it works and if it is safe.

Tirzepatide has been tested in several big trials. These studies looked at how much weight people lost and how well they felt while taking the medicine.

SURMOUNT-1 Study

In one of the biggest studies, called SURMOUNT-1, over 2,500 adults who were overweight or obese took tirzepatide. They were given different doses of the medicine once a week for over a year.

Here’s what the study found:

• People lost an average of 15 to 21 per cent of their body weight
  
  
• Over half of the people lost more than 20 per cent of their body weight
  
  
• Many said they felt full quicker and had less cravings for food
  
  

This is a big deal. Losing 15 to 20 per cent of your body weight can improve your health in many ways, such as lowering the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and joint pain.

Other Studies

Other trials, such as SURMOUNT-3 and SURMOUNT-4, showed similar results. These studies also looked at what happens when people stop using the medicine. They found that many people started gaining weight again if they stopped, which shows the importance of using it as part of a long-term plan.

In another study, tirzepatide was compared to semaglutide, a different weight loss medicine. People on tirzepatide lost more weight than those on semaglutide.

What This Means

These results show that tirzepatide is one of the most effective weight loss medicines we have today. It works best when used with healthy eating and exercise. It also shows that the medicine is not just a short-term fix. People may need to use it for longer periods to keep the weight off.

How Fast Can You Lose Weight with Tirzepatide?

Lots of people wonder how quickly they will lose weight when using tirzepatide. The truth is, it can be different for everyone. Some people lose weight quickly, while others take a bit longer.

What Did the Studies Show?

In studies, people who took tirzepatide once a week lost a good amount of weight over time. Here is what the research found:

• Most people started to lose weight within the first few months
  
  
• After about 6 months, many people lost around 15 per cent of their body weight
  
  
• After about 1 year and 4 months, some people lost as much as 20 per cent or more
  
  

For example, if someone weighs 100 kilograms, they might lose 15 to 20 kilograms.

Why Slow Weight Loss is Good

Tirzepatide helps you lose weight slowly and steadily. This is actually better than losing weight too fast. Losing weight slowly helps your body stay healthy and makes it easier to keep the weight off in the future.

Doctors usually start with a small dose and then slowly increase it. This helps your body get used to the medicine and lowers the chance of side effects.

Everyone is Different

Not everyone loses weight in the same way. Some people lose more, some lose less. Things like age, health, food choices, and how active you are all make a difference.

If someone is not losing much weight, a doctor may change the dose or check for other reasons why the weight is not coming off.

Benefits Beyond Weight Loss

Tirzepatide does more than just help people lose weight. It can also make other parts of your health better. Many people who use this medicine say they feel stronger, healthier, and more confident.

Helps with Blood Sugar

Tirzepatide was first made to help people with type 2 diabetes. It lowers blood sugar levels by helping the body use insulin better. Even people without diabetes can get better blood sugar control, which is good for long-term health.

Better Heart Health

Losing weight with tirzepatide can help your heart. It may lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of heart disease. These are all big benefits for people who are overweight or have other health problems.

Easier Movement and Less Pain

When people lose weight, they often say their knees, hips, and back feel better. They can walk more easily and do more daily activities without feeling tired or sore. This can make a big difference in everyday life.

Improved Mood and Confidence

Some people say they feel happier and more confident after losing weight with tirzepatide. They may enjoy shopping for clothes again, taking photos, or going out with friends. Feeling better about your body can help your mental health too.

Helps with Other Health Problems

Losing weight with tirzepatide can also help with:

• Sleep apnoea (a condition where breathing stops during sleep)
  
  
• Fatty liver disease
  
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in some women
  
  

Even if a person is not trying to lose weight just for looks, these health improvements can be life-changing.

Side Effects and Risks

Like all medicines, tirzepatide can have side effects. Some people feel fine, but others may have some problems at the start. It’s important to know what to expect so you can stay safe and talk to your doctor if needed.

Common Side Effects

The most common side effects happen in the stomach and gut. These include:

• Feeling sick (nausea)
  
  
• Being sick (vomiting)
  
  
• Loose poo (diarrhoea)
  
  
• Constipation (finding it hard to poo)
  
  
• Tummy pain or bloating
  
  

These side effects often happen when you first start the medicine or when the dose goes up. They usually get better after a few weeks as your body gets used to the medicine.

To help with these problems, doctors start with a small dose and increase it slowly.

Less Common but Serious Risks

Some rare but more serious problems can happen. These include:

• Pancreatitis (swelling of the pancreas, which causes bad stomach pain)
  
  
• Gallbladder problems (like gallstones)
  
  
• Low blood sugar, especially if you take other diabetes medicines
  
  

Tirzepatide also has a warning about a type of thyroid cancer. This was found in animals during testing, but it is not clear if it happens in humans. Because of this, people with a family history of thyroid cancer should not use this medicine.

Watch for Mental Health Changes

A few people say they feel more anxious or have low mood while using weight loss medicines like tirzepatide. If you ever feel sad, worried, or not like yourself, it’s very important to talk to someone and get help.

Always Talk to Your Doctor

Before starting tirzepatide, your doctor will check if it’s safe for you. They’ll ask about your health history, other medicines you take, and how you’re feeling. If you notice anything strange or worrying after starting, let your doctor know right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is tirzepatide safe for weight loss treatment?

Tirzepatide is generally considered safe for weight loss when prescribed by a healthcare provider. It has been tested in large clinical trials and is approved by health agencies like the FDA. Most people tolerate it well, though some may have side effects like nausea or tummy issues.

How does tirzepatide help with weight loss?

Tirzepatide works by copying two hormones that control hunger and blood sugar. It helps you feel full faster and eat less, which leads to steady weight loss over time. This dual-action effect makes tirzepatide one of the most effective new weight loss treatments.

How much weight can I lose with tirzepatide injections?

People using tirzepatide injections for weight loss have lost up to 15% to 21% of their body weight in clinical studies. The amount can vary based on your dose, lifestyle habits, and how your body responds to the medicine.

How long does it take to see weight loss results with tirzepatide?

You may start to notice weight loss in the first few weeks, but most people see bigger changes after 2 to 3 months. Tirzepatide weight loss results usually improve steadily over 6 to 12 months with weekly injections and a healthy lifestyle.

What are the common side effects of tirzepatide weight loss treatment?

The most common side effects are feeling sick, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation. These usually happen when starting or increasing the dose and often get better over time. Starting with a low dose helps reduce side effects.

Can tirzepatide be used if I do not have diabetes?

Yes, tirzepatide for weight loss without diabetes is now approved under the brand name Zepbound. It helps people who are overweight or obese, even if they do not have type 2 diabetes, as long as they meet certain health guidelines.

Do I need to follow a special diet while on tirzepatide?

There is no strict tirzepatide diet plan, but eating healthy foods and staying active will help you lose more weight. Doctors often suggest meals high in protein and fibre, and drinking plenty of water to support your results.

Conclusion

Tirzepatide is a new medicine that can help people lose weight by making them feel full and helping the body use food better. It works well for many people, especially when used with healthy eating and regular movement. Like all medicines, it is important to use it safely and with advice from a doctor. If you want to lose weight and do not know where to start, or if you are using tirzepatide and need support, Weight Loss Coach can help. Our friendly team gives simple, easy-to-follow plans and support to help you reach your goals in a safe and healthy way.