Mounjaro, a drug with the active ingredient tirzepatida, which has been publicized by the Brazilian media as the "Ozempic of the Rich", is an innovative drug launched by Eli Lilly in 2022.

Initially developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, Mounjaro has also shown impressive efficacy in weight reduction, positioning itself as one of the greatest revolutions in the treatment of obesity, as its results are comparable to those of bariatric surgery.

Tirzepatide acts as a dual agonist of the glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors, offering a unique and effective mechanism of action.

What Mounjaro is good for?

Mounjaro was developed to treat both type 2 diabetes and obesity. It works to treat obesity by combining the effects of GIP and GLP-1, hormones that regulate appetite and food intake.

• Promotes satietyReduces appetite and increases the feeling of satiety, leading to lower calorie intake.
• Improves glycemic controlLowers blood glucose levels, essential for patients with type 2 diabetes.
• Reduces body weightIn clinical studies, patients reported significant weight losses, often greater than those achieved with other drug therapies.

This drug stands out for offering a non-invasive approach, with efficacy comparable to that of surgical procedures.

Combined Mechanism of Action of GIP and GLP-1

1. Synergistic effect: The combination of GIP and GLP-1 has a synergistic effect on appetite control and metabolism regulation. While GLP-1 is known for its ability to increase the feeling of satiety and decrease food intake, GIP complements these effects by improving insulin sensitivity and promoting energy utilization. Together, they enhance weight loss.
2. Modulation of Appetite and Food Intake: GLP-1 acts on the brain's appetite centers, increasing the feeling of satiety and delaying gastric emptying, which leads to lower calorie intake. GIP, on the other hand, also positively influences appetite control, further enhancing the effects of GLP-1.
3. Energy Metabolism:
   GIP plays a role in promoting lipolysis (fat breakdown) and reducing lipogenesis (fat formation), contributing to better utilization of body fat deposits. This is crucial for weight loss, as it increases fat burning rather than fat storage.
4. Better glycemic control:
   Although both hormones improve insulin secretion in response to meals, tirzepatide offers greater efficacy in glycemic control compared to GLP-1 alone, which also contributes to less fat deposition.

Is Mounjaro the Same Thing as Ozempic?

Although both are used to treat obesity and type 2 diabetes, Mounjaro and Ozempic (semaglutide) are not the same. The main differences include:

• Mechanism of ActionOzempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, while Mounjaro is a dual GIP and GLP-1 agonist, providing a potentiated effect on weight reduction and glycemic control.
• Weight Loss EffectivenessStudies indicate that tirzepatide may result in greater weight loss compared to semaglutide, due to its dual action.
• Side effect profilesAlthough they share some side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, the combination of GIP and GLP-1 may offer a different safety profile.

What are the Side Effects of Mounjaro??

The side effects are similar to those of Ozempic:

• GastrointestinalNausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation. These symptoms usually occur at the start of treatment and tend to subside over time.
• HypoglycemiaEspecially in patients using other antidiabetic drugs concomitantly.
• Injection Site ReactionsRedness or irritation where the medicine was administered.

However, in the studies indicated, Mounjaro has been showing these side effects to a lesser extent than Ozempic.

Scientific Studies on the Mounjaro

Several clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Mounjaro in weight loss. A phase 3 study, SURPASS-2, showed that patients treated with tirzepatide achieved an average weight loss of up to 22.5% compared to conventional treatments. Compared to other drugs, such as semaglutide (Ozempic), Mounjaro showed superior weight loss, making it stand out as a promising treatment option.

In the SURMOUNT-1 study, it was shown that tirzepatide can lead to even more significant weight loss. Participants who continued using tirzepatida for 88 weeks achieved an average loss of 25.3% of total body weight, with some participants losing up to 27% of total body weight.

A result so impressive that it compares with the average results of bariatric surgeries, which vary from 15 to 35% depending on the type of surgery, but on average achieve a weight loss of 15%.

Who Can Take Mounjaro?

• Patients with a BMI (Body Mass Index) above 30: Considered obese.
• Patients with a BMI over 27 with associated comorbidities, such as type 2 diabetes.
• Adults with type 2 diabetesFor glycemic control and weight reduction.

It is important to always use it under medical supervision, taking into account contraindications and possible drug interactions.

Where to buy Mounjaro in Brazil?

Currently, Mounjaro has been approved by ANVISA, but is not yet available in Brazilian pharmacies. In a statement to the press, the drug's manufacturer has not yet given a forecast for the drug's launch on the domestic market.

The drug can be acquired through importation, with a doctor's prescription, until it is widely available on the domestic market. Importation must follow specific regulations to guarantee the safety and efficacy of the treatment.

With these points, Mounjaro is consolidating itself as an important tool in the arsenal of treatments for obesity, promising to transform the lives of many patients and contributing to a significant improvement in quality of life.