INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Weight loss medications continue to be top of the headlines.

On Tuesday, Lilly released results of a three- year study of over 1,000 patients on their drug tirzepatide, known as Zepbound for weight loss and Mounjaro for diabetes in the U.S. (also marketed as Mounjaro for weight loss in some global markets), showing 94% reduction in the progression from prediabetes to diabetes in individuals with obesity or overweight. 

Prediabetes affects 1 in 3 American adults and 70% will ultimately develop diabetes. 

How effective is tirzepatide for weight loss? 

This medication is the best in class, in this study participants saw on average a 23% reduction in body weight vs. 2.1% in the placebo arm. There is no miracle medication and weight loss and diabetes treatment should be comprehensive including lifestyle changes and in many cases may require medication or even surgery. 

What lifestyle changes are recommended? 

Oftentimes, with weight loss, an individual will lose fat mass, as well as muscle mass. It is crucial that individuals on these medications perform regular strength training exercises, at minimum, 2-3 days weekly. This is especially important for perimenopausal women due to the myriad of hormonal changes. 

Calorie restriction is also usually recommended, with adequate intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein, as well as minimal intake of saturated fat. Remember, it is important that we consume the recommended daily amount of fats, carbs and proteins.

However, individuals taking these medications with larger and/or fattier meals have increased risk of GI-related symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation and diarrhea. 

Do individuals taking these medications for weight loss prevent individuals with diabetes from getting the medication? 

There is a great deal of misinformation circling around that individuals taking these medications for weight loss are taking the medications away from those who need it for diabetes. These medications are indicated for both diagnoses and if an individual does not have diabetes there must be another comorbidity present, many of which are risk factors for diabetes. There is no one size fits all solution and what works for one patient may not work for another. We, including the healthcare team, should be careful not to judge or evoke biases in our interactions with others. 

If you or someone you know has obesity or overweight and prediabetes, consider speaking with your doctor about this recent update.