Weight Loss Super Drug Tirzepatide To Be Available in India Soon
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is based on news reports about Tirzepatide's approval in India. MrMed or related parties do not have any confirmation of the drug's launch or availability in India. We encourage readers not to make any changes to their lifestyle or medicine consumption patterns based only on this article.
2024 is going on to become a groundbreaking revolution in the medical history of India, and rightly so. From cancer drugs being free of customs duty to much-debated wellness drugs being approved for sale, the healthcare field is changing indeed.
For a nation where 20% of the population is identified to be obese, what can a medicine like Tirzepatide do? Bring in overnight changes to the fitness curve, or make it worse? This blog covers the answers to all your questions and more!
Wanna get in touch with an expert for the right advice? Our support team is just a text away :)
What is tirzepatide for weight loss?
Tirzepatide is a novel medication primarily developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, which has also shown significant efficacy in weight loss.
Developed by Eli Lilly and Company, the drug functions as a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. This dual action not only helps in regulating blood sugar levels but also promotes weight loss by affecting appetite and food intake.
Is tirzepatide currently available in India?
Extensive clinical trials and research have underpinned Tirzepatide's journey towards approval in various countries. In the United States, the drug has been marketed under the brand name Mounjaro and has received FDA approval for treating diabetes. Its potential for aiding weight loss is still under review. The anticipation for its approval for weight management is high due to the impressive results demonstrated in clinical settings.
As for its debut in India, Tirzepatide is expected to be introduced under the brand name Zepbound. The pricing strategy for this medication will be crucial, as it needs to be accessible to a broad segment of the population.
What would be the expected price?
Reports suggest that the drug could be priced at around Rs. 83,000 per month, which positions it at the higher end of the spectrum. The price reflects the novel nature of the drug and the substantial research and development costs involved in bringing it to market.
What are the benefits of tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide goes beyond just a weight loss drug. Here are the added benefits:
1. Enhanced Glucose Control: Tirzepatide has demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing HbA1c levels, which is crucial for diabetes management.
2. Cardiovascular Health: Patients using Tirzepatide have reported improvements in cardiovascular risk factors, such as lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
3. Appetite Regulation: Tirzepatide's dual mechanism helps regulate appetite, leading to reduced calorie intake and subsequent weight loss.
4. Insulin Sensitivity: It enhances insulin sensitivity, which helps in better glucose metabolism, which is crucial for diabetes management.
5. Reduction in Waist Circumference: Beyond weight loss, Tirzepatide has been shown to specifically reduce waist circumference, a significant factor in assessing obesity-related health risks.
With its multifaceted benefits, Tirzepatide has the potential to significantly improve overall health and enhance the quality of life for patients with obesity and diabetes. This instills a sense of hope and optimism in the medication's potential.
Does tirzepatide have side effects?
Like any medication, it comes with potential side effects. Some of them are:
1. Gastrointestinal Issues: The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation, which are usually transient.
2. Hypoglycemia: Particularly in patients with diabetes, there is a risk of hypoglycemia, especially when combined with other diabetic medications.
3. Pancreatitis: As with other drugs in this class, there is a slight risk of pancreatitis, which necessitates monitoring of symptoms.
4. Kidney Problems: Monitoring kidney function is recommended as Tirzepatide can impact renal function, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney conditions.
5. Thyroid C-cell Tumors: Animal studies have raised concerns about a potential risk for thyroid C-cell tumours, although this has not been confirmed in humans.
6. Increased Heart Rate: Some patients may experience an increased heart rate.
7. Injection Site Reactions: Localized reactions at the injection site, including redness, itching, or swelling, are occasionally reported.
Who cannot take tirzepatide?
Taking any medicine should be strictly under the supervision of your healthcare provider. However, these groups of people need to be particularly cautious:
Individuals with a History of Pancreatitis
A patient with a recorded history of acute or chronic pancreatitis should avoid Tirzepatide, as the medication could potentially exacerbate this condition or lead to a recurrence.
Patients with Severe Gastrointestinal Disease
Someone suffering from severe gastroparesis or other significant gastrointestinal motility disorders might experience worsening symptoms due to Tirzepatide’s effects on gastric emptying and digestion.
People with Personal or Family History of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
A person who has a family history of MTC or is diagnosed with MEN 2 should steer clear of Tirzepatide, as it could potentially increase the risk of developing thyroid tumours.
Pregnant or Nursing Women
A pregnant woman should not take Tirzepatide as its effects on the fetus are unknown, and it may pose risks during pregnancy or lactation. Similarly, nursing mothers should avoid it to prevent any potential transmission of the drug to the infant through breast milk.
Patients with Severe Renal Impairment
Individuals with severe kidney disease or those on dialysis may not be able to properly process Tirzepatide, leading to an increased risk of side effects and toxicity due to the accumulation of the drug in the body.
Can tirzepatide be prescribed for obesity?
The application of Tirzepatide for obesity is a particularly exciting development. Clinical trials have shown that patients can experience significant weight loss, which is a breakthrough in the treatment of excess Body Mass Index (BMI).
Impact on Obesity-related Complications: Reduction in obesity with Tirzepatide treatment also lowers the risk of developing secondary conditions such as sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, and certain types of cancer.
Long-term Efficacy: Studies suggest that the weight loss effects of Tirzepatide are sustainable with long-term use, which is crucial for chronic management of obesity.
Quality of Life Enhancements: By reducing weight and improving metabolic health, Tirzepatide significantly enhances the quality of life and daily functioning.
Accessibility for Severe Cases: Tirzepatide provides a new hope for patients with severe obesity where diet, exercise, and existing medications have failed.
Preventative Aspects: Early use in at-risk populations might help prevent the progression from overweight to obesity.
Which is better, tirzepatide or its alternative semaglutide?
When considering Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide, it's essential to understand that both drugs act as GLP-1 receptor agonists. However, Tirzepatide offers the additional mechanism of being a GIP agonist, which may confer added benefits in weight reduction and glucose control.
This dual mechanism could potentially make Tirzepatide a more potent option for individuals struggling with obesity and diabetes.
Wellness at the forefront
With its innovative mechanism of action and promising clinical results, Tirzepatide offers new hope for many who struggle with weight issues. However, its high cost remains a barrier that might limit access for many potential users.
The future of approval in India will depend on a variety of factors, including regulatory approvals, pricing strategies, and patient outcomes. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the anticipation for such game-changing treatments signifies a step forward in the quest for better health and well-being.
Expert talk
Dr Arjun Singh, sites “Tirzepatide is a promising drug for managing obesity and type 2 diabetes, reflecting significant advances in metabolic disease treatment. Patients considering this medication should undergo comprehensive health assessments to ensure it's appropriate for their condition.
For optimal results, it's crucial to integrate Tirzepatide with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. Continuous monitoring by healthcare providers is essential to tailor the treatment to the patient’s evolving needs and manage any side effects promptly. Patients should communicate openly with their healthcare team about their progress and any health changes.
References
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38388874/
- https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/dia.2024.0050
- https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/lillys-tirzepatide-achieved-157-weight-loss-adults-obesity-or
- https://dom-pubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/dom.14462
Note: The information provided in this blog is intended for general knowledge. It is important to remember that it should not replace professional medical advice. If you have any concerns about your health or want to incorporate a specific supplement in your routine, please consult a healthcare provider.
