The drug suppresses appetite, while simultaneously slowing down digestion, so that individuals feel full for longer durations.

Tirzepatide has generated significant buzz as a dual-agonist medication that can dramatically reduce weight and help control blood sugar levels. Known under the brand Mounjaro and Zepbound, it has shown promising results in clinical studies. Let’s fact-check what we know—its benefits, risks, and how it compares to other treatments.

What Are Mounjaro and Zepbound?

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide):  Developed by Eli Lilly, is a newer medication that acts on two hormone receptors: GLP-1 and GIP. This dual-action mechanism gives it an edge in both glycemic control and weight loss, according to recent clinical trials.
Zepbound: Zepbound uses the same active ingredient as Mounjaro and is targeted for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight conditions with health-related complications.

Is It Approved for Weight Loss & Diabetes?

Yes. Multiple approvals validate its use:

• Mounjaro is FDA-approved (since May 2022) for Type 2 diabetes, in conjunction with diet and exercise goodrx.com.
   
• Zepbound received approval in November 2023 for weight loss in individuals with a BMI ≥30 or ≥27 with comorbidities.
  
  Both drugs share the same active ingredient but differ in their labeled use cases and insurance coverage.

How Do They Help with Weight Loss?

Both drugs suppress appetite and slow gastric emptying, making individuals feel full for longer periods. In clinical studies:

• According to the FDA, Zepbound showed substantial weight reduction in clinical trials, with up to 22.5% weight loss in some individuals. This marks one of the most significant advances in non-surgical obesity treatments to date. A Verywell Health article highlighted that Zepbound may also cut the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by more than 90% in prediabetic patients.
   
• Mounjaro has shown even more impressive results, with some patients losing over 20% of their body weight. Tirzepatide is administered as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injectable, typically once a week. Studies show that the drug carries significant potential to induce weight loss in patients that are overweight and obese. It can also help improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Safety and Side Effects

In terms of side-effects, gastrointestinal adverse reactions, such as nausea, constipation, decreased appetite, dyspepsia, diarrhoea, and vomiting, may be expected. The drug could also aggravate pre-existing kidney concerns and in some cases, induce tumours in the thyroid, including thyroid cancer.

Conclusion: A Game Changer in Obesity & Diabetes Management?

The clinical evidence and real-world results are clear: Tirzepatide is one of the most effective non-surgical weight loss solutions available today. It also provides superior blood sugar control and may help reverse or delay type 2 diabetes.

However, it's not a "magic bullet." Success with Tirzepatide requires medical supervision, lifestyle changes, and long-term follow-up.

If you or someone you know is struggling with obesity and diabetes, consult a healthcare professional to explore whether Tirzepatide is the right option for you or not.