Mounjaro may help weight loss and lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetes.
Mounjaro may help weight loss and lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetes.
Mounjaro may be more effective in controlling type 2 diabetes when added to insulin treatment. The Washington Post/Getty Images
Did you know that approximately half of all people with diabetes are unaware they have it? This startling statistic highlights the importance of early detection and management of this chronic condition. Uncontrolled type 2 diabetes can lead to severe health complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision loss. However, there is good news on the horizon.
Researchers from Velocity Clinical Research at Medical City in Dallas, Texas, have discovered a promising solution for individuals with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes. They found that adding Mounjaro, a medication marketed as tirzepatide, to insulin treatments not only lowers average blood sugar levels but also promotes weight loss and reduces the risk of hypoglycemia. These findings have been published in the prestigious journal JAMA.
The Global Impact of Type 2 Diabetes
As of 2021, an estimated 537 million people worldwide have diabetes, with type 2 diabetes accounting for around 96% of those cases. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body no longer uses insulin correctly. Shockingly, almost half of all people with diabetes are undiagnosed, highlighting the urgent need for early detection and intervention.
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A Breakthrough Study with Promising Results
For this study, researchers conducted a randomized clinical trial involving approximately 1,400 participants with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes who were being treated with basal insulin. Basal insulin is a slow-acting form of insulin that individuals with diabetes typically take between meals to regulate their blood sugar levels.
The participants were randomly assigned to receive either weekly injections of Mounjaro or three daily injections of a prandial insulin called insulin lispro. The researchers found that the participants receiving Mounjaro experienced significant improvements in their hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) levels compared to those taking insulin lispro. Hemoglobin A1C measures a person’s average blood sugar level over the past three months. Furthermore, the Mounjaro group experienced more weight loss and fewer hypoglycemic events than the insulin lispro group.
Experts’ Reactions and Insights
Medical professionals familiar with Mounjaro have lauded these findings. Dr. Pouya Shafipour, a board-certified family and obesity medicine physician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, expressed his lack of surprise at the study’s results. He has been using Mounjaro since its approval and has witnessed its remarkable effectiveness in managing diabetes.
Dr. Jennifer Cheng, Chief of Endocrinology at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center, shared her excitement about having an alternative to insulin for glycemic control, especially one that promotes weight loss instead of weight gain. She highlighted the significant weight loss experienced by diabetic patients using similar medications from the GLP-1 class.
“The GLP-1 class of medications has really transformed the treatment of type 2 diabetes. We have seen significant amounts of weight loss with our diabetic patients. Losing weight and losing insulin resistance will therefore improve sugar control.” – Dr. Jennifer Cheng
Understanding Mounjaro’s Mechanism of Action
Mounjaro, the brand name for tirzepatide, is an injectable medication available only by prescription. It was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in May 2022 as a treatment for improving blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes.
Unlike other medications in its class, Mounjaro combines the properties of both a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. These hormones, secreted by the intestines, stimulate insulin production by the pancreas and reduce liver sugar production. They also enhance the body’s sensitivity to insulin. In addition to these effects, Mounjaro helps individuals feel full sooner and stay full longer, potentially aiding in weight loss.
Recent research presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes annual meeting demonstrated that Mounjaro is more effective than other GLP-1 receptor agonists for both weight loss and blood sugar management.
Key Considerations for Medications like Mounjaro
If you are considering trying Mounjaro or similar medications like Ozempic, there are a few essential factors to keep in mind. Firstly, these medications require self-administration via injections at home. Therefore, it is crucial to be comfortable with self-injections before starting this treatment. Additionally, it is important for healthcare professionals to ensure there are no contraindications before prescribing Mounjaro.
According to Dr. Pouya Shafipour, the primary contraindication for Mounjaro is the presence of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 in a person’s family history. This rare form of thyroid cancer poses a significant risk. Furthermore, individuals at risk of developing pancreatitis or pancreas inflammation should avoid these types of medications as they can exacerbate these conditions.
Dr. Jennifer Cheng emphasizes the potential side effects of Mounjaro and similar medications, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and slowing of the gut. It is also crucial to factor in the cost of these medications, which can typically be covered by medical insurance.
“I would also like patients to know that this medication is not approved for weight loss at this time. Most insurance companies require a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes for coverage. For non-diabetic patients, there is an alternative to [Mounjaro] called Wegovy. Patients will need a weight loss benefit in their insurance to obtain coverage for obesity medication.” – Dr. Jennifer Cheng
Empowering Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes
The addition of Mounjaro to insulin treatments offers new hope for individuals with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes. By effectively lowering average blood sugar levels, promoting weight loss, and reducing hypoglycemia, this medication demonstrates promise in improving the lives of those living with diabetes. However, discussing the potential benefits and risks with a healthcare professional is crucial before considering Mounjaro as a treatment option. With ongoing advancements in the field of diabetes management, individuals with type 2 diabetes can live healthier, happier lives.
