The future of weight loss
HOLY MOUNJARO!
I recently wrote a blog about how wonderful Semaglutide is and how it has changed the landscape of the medical weight loss world.
What if I told you that a superior medication is in the pipeline for weight management? Without further ado, ladies and gentlemen, I’d like to introduce you to our new best friend – Mounjaro. Tirzepatide (brand name Mounjaro) is an FDA-approved medication currently used to treat diabetes. Data from studies comparing these two medications in people with diabetes showed superior weight loss in the control group receiving Tirzepatide. While this medication is only currently approved for treating diabetes (as was the case initially with Semaglutide), this promising compound will likely be FDA-approved later this year for weight management.
At CR8 Health we are currently using tirzepatide as off-label use for weight management.
What is Tirzepatide, and how does it work?
Tirzepatide, a weight loss injection sold under the brand name Mounjaro, is a molecule that targets not one but two receptors. Like Semaglutide, Tirzepatide is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide) receptor agonist. As previously discussed, GLP-1 receptor agonists decrease blood glucose levels, slow gastric (stomach) emptying, reduce cravings, and function as appetite suppressants. Unlike Semaglutide, Mounjaro is composed of an additional component that mimics an incretin hormone called GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). The complementary effect of GIP with a GLP-1 receptor agonist further decreases food intake, increases energy expenditure, and facilitates optimal glucose metabolism. Recent studies show that this combined effect leads to greater weight reduction in individuals.
Tirzepatide vs. Semaglutide
Clients ask me all the time which medication is superior. Clinical trials comparing the two medications in diabetic patients showed an average weight loss of 22.5% of body weight in patients taking Tirzepatide compared to an average weight loss of 14.9% in the Semaglutide arm. Did I hear that correctly? An additional 7.5%? That is astonishing. While the studies were conducted in diabetic patients only and the doses used among the two medications varied, the Tirzepatide group patients were the clear winners. The Mounjaro patients lost more weight and achieved their weight targets 4 to 12 weeks earlier than those taking Semaglutide.
Is Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) safe? What is the perfect Dose? How is taken?
Tirzepatide shares a similar side effect profile to Semaglutide. The most common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, nausea, constipation, or diarrhea. The majority of patients do not develop adverse effects, and for those that do, they are typically experienced when starting the medication and are mild and self-limiting. As with Semaglutide, the medication is started at a low dose and titrated up slowly. It is important to remember that everyone tolerates and responds to the medication differently, meaning there is no universal “perfect dose.” Many patients will achieve desired weight loss benefits using lower doses. Like Semaglutide, Mounjaro is a once-weekly subcutaneous injection.
Are there any other benefits?
Studies have demonstrated benefits outside the scope of weight loss. This includes anti-inflammatory properties and decreased likelihood of major cardiovascular events.
How much weight will I lose? How quickly? Is it guaranteed?
I wish I could answer this question. As mentioned, the average weight loss in clinical trials was a 22.5% reduction in body weight. Every patient is different, and therefore results do vary. What may work for a friend or family member may not work for you. Weight management is complicated and depends on factors including genetics, physical predispositions, metabolism, etc. Because of this, I highly recommend seeking a trained professional specializing in the field. Additionally, optimal weight loss results are always seen when combining medications with aggressive lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, sleep, stress reduction).
Why do I love Mounjaro?
22.5% weight loss! That’s unreal. When we thought it couldn’t get better than Semaglutide, another medication has demonstrated even more significant weight loss in multiple studies. I recently spoke to a friend and colleague of mine who is a bariatric surgeon about the incredible results we are seeing with Semaglutide and the promising future of Mounjaro. He was quite concerned about the future of bariatric surgery. These medications are “liquid gastric bypasses”, producing comparable results without invasive procedures. Semaglutide has revolutionized the world of weight management, yet there is a new sheriff in town called Mounjaro.
If all of this resonates and you are considering starting your weight loss journey and transforming your life, please call us at 561-922-8418 for your free consultation and to discuss how Semaglutide or Tirzepartide may benefit you!
Written by: Dr. Nadav D Fields Board Certified in Internal Medicine & Obesity Medicine
Disclaimer: CR8 Health uses compounded tirzepatide. Results (i.e. weight loss) are not guaranteed and do vary. Tirzepatide use does not lead to rapid, unrealistic weight loss, and best results are achieved by coupling lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, exercise, etc. Like all medical programs and pharmaceuticals, weight management initiatives and medications also carry inherent risks. The material on this website is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. The services, products, and information listed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please always consult your physician before starting any treatment program.
