2023-09-17 15:11:22
New Drug for Type 2 Diabetes Approved in the UK: Tirzepatide More Effective Than Current Medications
London, UK – In a major breakthrough for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, a new drug called Tirzepatide, sold under the brand name Monjaro, has been approved for prescription in the UK. This injectable treatment aims to help the body regulate glucose levels in the blood after meals and control appetite. According to research conducted on Tirzepatide, it has shown to be more effective in controlling blood sugar and promoting weight loss compared to currently available medications for type 2 diabetes.
Tirzepatide is derived from a protein with a similar structure to the hormone GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide), which stimulates insulin release. However, what sets Tirzepatide apart is its ability to bind to the receptor for another hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1), which also stimulates insulin release. This makes Tirzepatide the first “dual hormone agonist” to be approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, as it targets both GLP-1 and GIP.
The hormones GLP-1 and GIP are naturally produced by specialized cells in the large and small intestine, which are released in response to high glucose levels in the blood after a meal. They work on the pancreas to increase insulin production and lower blood glucose levels. They also reduce the production of glucagon, which typically raises glucose levels when they are too low. These hormones also slow down stomach emptying, leading to a feeling of fullness for a longer period after a meal.
The inability to regulate glucose levels after meals is believed to be one of the underlying causes of type 2 diabetes. Additionally, the effects of GLP-1 on stomach emptying and appetite control contribute to weight loss. Tirzepatide, unlike the naturally produced hormones, has a longer-lasting effect due to its modified structure, lasting about five days. As a result, it only needs to be taken once a week.
Clinical trials comparing Tirzepatide with semaglutide, a medication that targets only GLP-1, found Tirzepatide to be more effective in lowering average blood sugar levels. More than 80% of patients treated with Tirzepatide were able to achieve their glucose goals. Another year-long study found that Tirzepatide, specifically at a dose of 15 mg, was as effective in controlling blood glucose levels as insulin.
In addition to its blood sugar-controlling properties, Tirzepatide also supports weight loss. Patients who took Tirzepatide averaged a weight loss of 8.5% to 13% of their body weight, surpassing the weight loss achieved by those taking semaglutide.
With approximately 80%-90% of people with type 2 diabetes being overweight or obese, the ability of Tirzepatide to lower blood glucose levels while promoting weight loss has revolutionized the approach to treating the disease. It is well-known that excess body weight, especially around the waist, can affect insulin effectiveness and production.
Tirzepatide can be safely used alongside other diabetes medications if glucose control goals are not met. Although direct comparisons between Tirzepatide and semaglutide are lacking, the weight reductions observed in studies using Tirzepatide have been greater than those reported in studies using semaglutide.
The approval of Tirzepatide in the UK brings hope for improved diabetes management and better overall health for those with type 2 diabetes. It is expected to be available for prescription by early 2024, providing a new and effective treatment option for patients in need.]
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