NEWS – In a significant development, India’s drug regulator expert committee has approved the drug tirzepatide, marking a potential shift in weight-loss treatments

HIGHLIGHTS

Approved for Weight Management:

• Both tirzepatide and semaglutide have received FDA approval for chronic weight management in adults.

Mechanism of Action:

• Polypeptide Structure: They are small proteins that elevate levels of hormones like GLP-1 in the body.
• GLP-1 Boost: Higher GLP-1 levels stimulate neurons in the gut, enhancing gut function and inducing a feeling of fullness.
• Brain Activation: Neural pathways are activated in the brain, promoting satiety.

Additional Benefits:

• Glucose Management: Effective in managing glucose levels, making them beneficial for diabetes treatment.

Differences in Functionality:

• Semaglutide: Targets GLP-1 receptors exclusively.
• Tirzepatide: Boosts GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), affecting brain and fat cells.

Indications and Prescription

• Target Population: Recommended for individuals with a BMI over 30 (obese) or between 27 and 30 (overweight) with related health conditions (e.g., hypertension, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes).

Side Effects

• Common Side Effects: Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, indigestion, injection-site reactions, fatigue, allergic reactions, belching, hair loss, and heartburn.