A new weight loss drug could become the best-selling drug of all time according to the media. The injectable drug called Tirzepatide (brand name Mounjaro) is currently approved for diabetes but does not have FDA approval for weight loss. This situation is expected to change sometime in 2023.
Tirzepatide is being prescribed off label by doctors as an obesity medicine to help overweight people lose weight.
Although effective at reducing body weight there are a few reasons to be cautious before buying Tirzepatide.
Firstly, it is expensive, costing $1000's per month if purchased without insurance coverage. It can also cause a few side effects (detailed further down in this article).
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Perhaps its biggest caveat is that the obesity medication stops working when you stop using it - so it's a pretty expensive commitment. Thankfully there are cheaper Tirzepatide alternatives that are available over the counter and naturally formulated.
Natural Alternatives to Tirzepatide
Here are the two of the commonly used natural alternatives to injectable weight loss drugs. Both PhenQ and Zotrim contain clinically studied natural ingredients and are available over the counter and online via their official websites. Both brands are safe, non addictive and cost a fraction of the price of weight loss injections
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#1 - PhenQ Fat Burner and Appetite Suppressant
PhenQ is a popular natural weight loss pill that contains ingredients purported to aid fat burning and appetite suppression.
PhenQ is a popular weight loss supplement that has been available for over 10 years. It contains ingredients said to aid fat burning and appetite suppression for enhanced weight loss.
PhenQ includes caffeine, capsicum, chromium, and alpha-lipoic acid, which may increase fat burning, metabolism, and insulin sensitivity according to some research. These compounds could help you lose an extra 3-5% of body fat when combined with exercise. The nopal cactus fiber in PhenQ helps you feel full, reducing appetite that may lead to eating 200-500 fewer calories per day for some.
With PhenQ and a reduced calorie diet, people have lost up to 10% of their body weight (e.g. losing 60 lbs for a 600 lbs dieter) in ~3-5 months. Results will vary; 3-15 lbs more per month can be realistic. PhenQ is not a magic pill but aims to boost your motivation and make lifestyle changes easier so you can reach your goals.
PhenQ produces lasting fat loss when combined with nutrition and training. By targeting multiple areas like fat burning, appetite suppression, improved mood and more, PhenQ has helped over 190,000 customers lose weight. While all supplements have risks, PhenQ’s formula is backed by 10+ years of safe use and contains only natural ingredients.
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#2 - Zotrim Herbal Hunger Reducer
Zotrim is an herbal weight loss medication that aims to help reduce appetite and control hunger. It contains a patented blend of yerba maté, guarana, and damiana extracts. These herbal ingredients are believed to increase energy, stimulate metabolism, and reduce the desire to overeat.
Zotrim works in the following ways: Yerba maté and guarana provide caffeine, which can boost metabolism and fat burning. They also contain theobromine, a mild stimulant that may curb appetite.
Damiana acts as a natural aromatase inhibitor, which could decrease fat storage signals in the body. Together, these herbal extracts work to give you an energy boost, modestly enhance your mood and motivation, reduce cravings, and slightly suppress appetite so you eat fewer calories overall and ultimately lose weight.
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What is Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide is a new prescription medication developed by Eli Lilly and Company for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. It is sold under the brand name Mounjaro.
The weight loss drug Tirzepatide belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It is touted to be the best diabetes drug for weight loss in 2023.
These medications activate GLP-1 receptors in the body involved in blood sugar control, appetite regulation, and fat storage. Tirzepatide is unique in that it targets both the GLP-1 receptor as well as the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor, which provides additional metabolic benefits.
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Tirzepatide may benefit diabetics and those struggling with obesity in the following ways:
● Can significantly lower high blood sugar levels and help maintain tight glycemic control, especially in response to meals. This may allow for a reduction in other diabetes medications or provide better control when current treatments are not enough.
● Leads to clinically meaningful weight loss by decreasing appetite and calorie intake. In clinical trials, some patients achieved up to 22.5% weight loss over 72 weeks which can help reduce health risks associated with excess weight like heart disease or kidney damage.
● May have positive effects on pancreatic beta cell health and function over time. By preserving or improving insulin production, tirzepatide could help slow the progression of diabetes.
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● Can lower cardiovascular risk factors like high blood pressure or elevated cholesterol levels. Weight loss and better metabolic control both take significant strain off the heart and circulatory system.
● Leads to an improved quality of life by reducing diabetes complications and obesity-related health issues. Patients report decreased symptoms, greater mobility and stamina, improved mood and self-confidence as they get their conditions under control.
● Provides a new treatment option when other medications have failed or side effects become intolerable. Tirzepatide may suit some individuals better based on their needs and medical history.
How Does Tirzepatide Work?
Specifically, tirzepatide works in the following ways:
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It stimulates GLP-1 receptors on pancreatic beta cells to increase insulin secretion. This helps lower blood sugar levels, especially in response to meals. Increased insulin also reduces hepatic glucose output by the liver.
Activates GLP-1 receptors in the brain involved in appetite regulation and satiety. This suppresses hunger, decreases appetite, and leads to eating less, which aids weight loss.
Stimulates GIP receptors, which further enhances the effects on blood glucose control and appetite suppression. Tirzepatide is the first medication to target both the GLP-1 and GIP receptor systems.
It slows gastric emptying, which means food moves from the stomach into the intestines at a slower rate. This helps you feel full sooner and longer after eating, reducing the urge to snack.
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It also may have positive effects on the health and function of pancreatic beta cells over time. Some studies show GLP-1 drugs can help maintain or even increase beta cell mass, though more research is still needed.
Can also lead to fat cell remodeling and decreased fat storage signals. This can help shift metabolism away from fat storage and instead promote fat burning for energy, especially surrounding visceral organs like the liver.
It provides cardiovascular benefits, including potential improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, inflammation and fibrosis. Excess weight and obesity put strain on the heart, so weight loss itself may have protective effects.
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Tirzepatide Cost
The cost of Mounjaro (brand name), will vary depending on several factors:
Dosage
Tirzepatide currently comes in three doses: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg pens. Higher doses will generally cost more, though some insurance plans charge the same copay regardless of strength. The dose you require depends on your weight, blood sugar control needs, and treatment goals as determined by your doctor.
Pharmacy
Filling your tirzepatide prescription at certain pharmacies may lower the price versus others. Many large chains and wholesale clubs offer discounted rates, coupons or savings programs for expensive, brand name drugs. Asking about less expensive alternatives or generic options, if available, can also help reduce prices over time.
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Manufacturer discounts
Eli Lilly, the maker of Mounjaro, provides several patient assistance programs to help lower out-of-pocket costs, even for those with insurance. Options include copay cards that cover a portion of each refill, charity programs for uninsured/underinsured individuals that qualify based on income limits, and general savings on each pen when paying full price with other options.
Location
Prescription drug prices can vary in different areas based on factors like market competition, insurance leverage, and healthcare costs. Living in a larger city or using a mail-order pharmacy may provide lower prices for Mounjaro over local or small-town pharmacies. Shopping around at different stores in your area or comparing prices online can help find the best rates.
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Exact pricing for a 4-week supply may be:
• $825-$1000+ without insurance or manufacturer discounts
• $300-$700 using manufacturer savings programs and coupons
• $50-$300 for those with prescription drug coverage through private insurance or Medicare
The cost of tirzepatide will likely decrease over time as more insurance formularies add the drug, generics become available, and Eli Lilly provides more opportunities to lower the price through their patient assistance programs.
Be sure to explore all options with your doctor, pharmacist, and insurance provider to gain affordable access to this medication based on your financial situation. With smart choices, tirzepatide can potentially fit most budgets despite the initial high price tag.
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Is Tirzepatide Covered By Insurance?
Insurance coverage for tirzepatide will vary between different plans and policies. Some key things to consider regarding insurance coverage of tirzepatide include:
Tirzepatide is approved for the treatment of a chronic medical condition (type 2 diabetes) and obesity (a disease according to the AMA), so many insurance plans will provide at least partial coverage, especially for diabetics. However, some plans may require certain criteria to be met before covering tirzepatide for weight loss alone.
Tirzepatide is very recently approved, so some insurance formularies may not have added it yet or may designate it as a higher tier (less preferred, non-preferred) drug at first. Over time, as tirzepatide is used more, it is likely to move to preferred status on most major plans based on its efficacy and safety profile.
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Co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs for tirzepatide will depend on your specific insurance plan and coverage details. Even for policies that cover tirzepatide, you may face relatively high initial costs before reaching your deductible limit each year or as your plan negotiates lower rates over time.
Many insurance companies provide exceptions and appeals processes that your doctor can utilize to request coverage for tirzepatide if it is initially denied. They can document medical necessity to justify why tirzepatide may be needed based on your treatment history and health conditions.
Patient assistance programs are available for those who cannot afford tirzepatide or do not have insurance coverage. Eli Lilly, the maker of Mounjaro, offers copay cards and savings programs to reduce costs as well as charity programs for uninsured and underinsured individuals who meet certain income requirements.
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Tirzepatide Results for Weight Loss
Tirzepatide, brand name Mounjaro, is a new prescription medication for weight loss and type 2 diabetes management. In clinical trials, tirzepatide has produced the following weight loss results:
Participants achieved up to 22.5% weight loss over 72 weeks (about 15-22 lbs for a 200 lb person). The highest doses of tirzepatide (10 and 15 mg) led to the greatest reduction in body weight.
58-72% of individuals lost at least 5% of their body weight, depending on dosage. This is the amount considered medically meaningful for health benefits. Around 1/3 of users lost more than 10-15% of total body weight.
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Weight loss was sustained for most over the full 72-week study period. After stopping tirzepatide at week 72, some weight regain did occur over the next 12 weeks. Ongoing use is required for continued benefits.
Examples of weight loss with tirzepatide:
• A 46-year-old woman, weighing 214 lbs, lost 50 lbs (23%) after using tirzepatide 10 mg for 72 weeks while modifying her diet and exercise routine. She reduced her HbA1c from 9.3 to 7.2% and was able to stop taking her diabetes medications.
• A 55-year-old man, weighing 283 lbs, lost 63 lbs (22%) taking the 15 mg dose of tirzepatide over 72 weeks. His health significantly improved, allowing him to walk up to 5 miles a day without issues, reduce back pain and high blood pressure medications. His motivation and mood also benefited from overcoming long-term obesity struggles.
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• In a 26-week study, a participant lost 79 lbs (27%) from a starting weight of 294 lbs using the titrated dosing schedule. The greatest change in weight and HbA1c happened in the first 12-16 weeks as the dose increased to 10 mg where effects began to stabilize. Nutrition and exercise modifications are ongoing to maintain improvements long-term.
Side Effects and Risks of Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide, like any drug, can cause some potential side effects and risks. The most common side effects of tirzepatide include:
• Nausea and diarrhea - Tirzepatide activates receptors in the gut that can lead to temporary nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose. These effects are usually mild to moderate and dissipate over time, but can be mitigated by slowly titrating the dose.
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• Hypoglycemia - For those taking tirzepatide with other diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas, there is a risk of low blood sugar. Close monitoring of blood glucose levels and medication adjustments may be needed. The risk seems lower when tirzepatide is used alone or with non-insulin agents.
• Dehydration - Due to the gastrointestinal effects, an increased risk of dehydration may occur. Drinking plenty of fluids can help prevent this and reduce the severity of other side effects. Dehydration can usually be avoided by maintaining good hydration habits.
• Pancreatitis - There is a rare risk of pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists like tirzepatide. Severe and persistent abdominal pain with nausea/vomiting may indicate pancreatitis. Seek medical attention immediately if these symptoms develop.
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• Gallbladder disease - Tirzepatide may increase the risk of gallstones or gallbladder inflammation in some people. Inform your doctor of any symptoms like frequent indigestion, gas, bloating, or right upper abdominal pain, especially after eating fatty or greasy foods.
• Injection site reactions - Mounjaro is administered via subcutaneous injection, which can sometimes lead to irritation, rash, or discomfort at the injection site. Properly rotating injection sites and using recommended techniques can minimize these effects. Seek medical advice for severe or persistent reactions.
• Long term risks - As a new medication, the potential long term effects and safety of tirzepatide are still not fully known. Ongoing studies will help determine if more serious and sustainable effects on pancreas, thyroid or other organs could develop over time or if the risks may outweigh benefits for some patients. Close monitoring will be required, especially when used for long duration.
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Tirzepatide for Weight Loss Summary and Conclusion
Although approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a diabetes treatment, Tirzepatide is not yet approved as a weight loss drug. This doesn't stop doctors prescribing off-label to patients that have a high BMI (Body Mass Index) or are overweight with weight related comorbidities.
Although Tirzepatide is effective and does reduce body weight there are natural alternatives that are cheaper and safer.
Disclaimer : The above is a sponsored post, the views expressed are those of the sponsor/author and do not represent the stand and views of Outlook Editorial.
