New Breakthrough Weight Loss Medication: Ozempic and Mounjaro
Weight loss can be a complicated and often intimidating goal to achieve, especially when living with diabetes. Fortunately, there are breakthrough drugs on the market for people who have diabetes that has been found to also help with weight loss. Ozempic and Mounjaro are two such drugs that the FDA has approved for managing type 2 diabetes, and studies suggest that in addition to blood sugar control, these drugs can also be beneficial in weight loss.
Ozempic and Mounjaro are glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA). GLP-1 RAs bind to the pancreas cells and increase insulin release, which helps control blood sugar levels. In addition, these drugs also alter appetite hormones such as ghrelin which can lead to weight loss.
Simple explanation of how these drugs work
These medications help you regulate blood sugar more efficiently and drastically reduce your appetite, pushing you into a caloric deficit and helping you lose weight.
Ozempic and Mounjaro are effective in weight loss, with some studies suggesting that they can lead to an average of 5-10% weight loss over three months. However, it is essential to note that these drugs should not be used as a replacement for healthy lifestyle changes. To maximize the benefits and minimize potential side effects, it is essential that users also make an effort to eat healthily, maintain a regular exercise routine that includes resistance training, and consume adequate protein.
While these drugs can be effective in helping people lose weight and manage diabetes, it is essential to remember that they should not be used as a substitute for lifestyle changes!
Ozempic VS Mounjaro
Generic names and drug classes
Ozempic's generic name is semaglutide. It belongs to the class of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which mimic the action of the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone to increase insulin secretion and reduce glucagon release, leading to improved glycemic control.
Mounjaro's generic name is tirzepatide. It belongs to the glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) and GLP-1 dual receptor agonists, which activate both GIP and GLP-1 receptors to enhance insulin secretion and reduce glucagon release.
Mechanism of action
While Ozempic and Mounjaro are GLP-1 receptor agonists, Mounjaro is a dual receptor agonist that activates GIP receptors, whereas Ozempic is a selective GLP-1 receptor agonist that only activates GLP-1 receptors.
Dosing
Depending on individual patient characteristics and the prescribing healthcare professional's recommendations, dosing may vary. Dosing is usually slowly up-titrated, depending on how your body responds to the medication and the results you are getting! Ozempic is typically administered once a week as a subcutaneous injection, whereas Mounjaro is administered once every four weeks as a subcutaneous injection.
FDA approvals
Ozempic is FDA-approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, whereas Mounjaro is FDA approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes as well, but specifically for patients who have not achieved adequate glycemic control with diet and exercise alone or with other antidiabetic medications. Regarding treating obesity, Ozempic was approved for this specific use by the FDA in 2021, while Mounjaro has not been approved yet but is expected to be approved soon.
Clinical evidence
Ozempic and Mounjaro have shown efficacy in clinical trials for improving glycemic control and reducing body weight in patients with type 2 diabetes. Still, specific details and results may vary based on the trials and studies conducted.
Safety Considerations
Both Ozempic and Mounjaro are prescription medications and should only be used under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.
These medications are not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, as their safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been established.
It's essential to inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions or medications you are taking, as they may interact with Ozempic or Mounjaro and affect their safety and effectiveness.
Common side effects of these medications include indigestion, constipation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. These side effects are usually mild and temporary, but you must consult your healthcare provider if they persist or worsen.
Serious side effects, including severe allergic reactions, pancreatitis, kidney problems, and thyroid tumors, are rare. If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe abdominal pain, persistent nausea, vomiting, or changes in urination or thyroid-related symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, kidney function, and thyroid function may be necessary while using these medications.
As with any medication, there may be potential interactions with other drugs or substances. Discuss all your medications and supplements with your healthcare provider to avoid possible interactions.
The safety profiles of Ozempic and Mounjaro, including their side effects, contraindications, precautions, and warnings, may also differ. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional or refer to the official prescribing information for each medication for comprehensive and up-to-date information.
It's crucial to note that the use of any medication, including Ozempic and Mounjaro, should be done under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional, and individual patient factors should be taken into consideration for proper diagnosis, treatment, and management of diabetes or any other medical condition.
My concerns about using these drugs when your objective is to lose weight
While Ozempic, Mounjaro, and other GLP-1 receptor agonists may help with weight loss, it's important to note that weight loss can come from fat and muscle loss. Without proper nutrition, including adequate protein intake, and regular resistance training, there is a risk of losing muscle mass and fat, especially in individuals who are overweight or obese with low lean mass.
Resistance training, which involves exercises that work against resistance (such as weight lifting or resistance band exercises), is crucial for preserving and building muscle mass. Muscle is metabolically active tissue that helps increase metabolism and improve overall body composition. Losing muscle mass can decrease strength and reduce functional ability, negatively impacting long-term weight loss maintenance.
Protein provides essential amino acids needed for muscle protein synthesis and repair. Additionally, protein intake is essential for muscle building and maintenance. It's crucial for individuals using Ozempic, Mounjaro, or any other weight loss medication to work with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to ensure they are getting adequate protein intake based on their individual needs and goals.
In summary, while Ozempic, Mounjaro, and other GLP-1 receptor agonists may help with weight loss, it's important to prioritize resistance training and adequate protein intake to minimize the risk of muscle loss and promote overall health and long-term weight loss maintenance.
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Other Weight Loss Medications in the Market
Weight loss is a common goal for many individuals, and various medications are available to help. These medications can target different aspects of weight loss, including appetite suppression, fat absorption inhibition, and metabolic regulation. Here's a brief overview of some of the commonly used weight loss medications, their mechanisms of action, and potential side effects:
Phentermine
Phentermine is a prescription weight loss medication that acts as an appetite suppressant. It works by stimulating the release of certain chemicals in the brain that help control hunger, resulting in reduced food intake. However, it may have side effects such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, dry mouth, and insomnia.
Orlistat
Orlistat is a weight loss medication available over-the-counter and in prescription strength. It works by inhibiting the absorption of dietary fats in the intestine, leading to reduced calorie intake. However, it may cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as oily stools, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.
Liraglutide
Liraglutide is an injectable weight loss medication that mimics a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which helps regulate appetite and glucose metabolism. It is also approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, it may cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea as common side effects.
Naltrexone/Bupropion
Naltrexone/Bupropion is a weight loss medication that combines two drugs with different mechanisms of action. Naltrexone treats opioid and alcohol dependence and may help reduce food cravings, while Bupropion is an antidepressant that may help suppress appetite. Side effects may include increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and mood changes.
It's important to note that these medications should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider, considering individual health status and potential side effects. They are not a substitute for healthy lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, and should be cautiously approached. Discussing the risks and benefits of these medications with a healthcare provider is crucial before considering their use for weight loss.
References:
Ozempic Prescribing Information. Novo Nordisk Inc. 2021. Available at: https://www.novo-pi.com/ozempic.pdf
Mounjaro Prescribing Information. Eli Lilly and Company. 2022. Available at: https://uspl.lilly.com/mounjaro/mounjaro.html
Aroda VR, Rosenstock J, Terauchi Y, et al. PIONEER 1: a randomized clinical trial of the efficacy and safety of oral semaglutide monotherapy in comparison with placebo in patients with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care. 2019;42(9):1724-1732.
Frias JP, Nauck MA, Van J, et al. Efficacy and safety of LY3298176, a novel dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, in patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomized, placebo-controlled and active comparator-controlled phase 2 trial. Lancet. 2018;392(10160):2180-2193.
Rosenstock J, Frias JP, Pall D, et al. Effect of tirzepatide vs. semaglutide once weekly on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA. 2021;325(23):2289-2301.
FDA Approves Ozempic for Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-ozempic-type-2-diabetes-and-obesity
Eli Lilly and Company Announces Positive Top-Line Results from Three TIRZEPATIDE Phase 3 Clinical Trials. Eli Lilly and Company. Available at: https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/eli-lilly-and-company-announces-positive-top-line-results-three
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