This diabetes breakthrough drug slashes risk by 94%—discover how tirzepatide is transforming obesity treatment

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) has released compelling results from the SURMOUNT-1 study, which highlights that tirzepatide (branded as Zepbound and Mounjaro) dramatically cuts the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by an astounding 94% in adults suffering from pre-diabetes and obesity or overweight. This significant three-year study not only underscores the drug’s potential in preventing diabetes but also shows impressive long-term benefits in weight management.

The SURMOUNT-1 study, a phase 3 clinical trial, involved 1,032 participants who were administered tirzepatide at doses of 5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg weekly for a 176-week period. A placebo group was also included for comparison. The results reveal that tirzepatide markedly reduced the progression to type 2 diabetes, achieving a 94% reduction compared to those receiving placebo. Additionally, participants receiving the 15 mg dose of tirzepatide experienced an average weight loss of 22.9%, in stark contrast to the 2.1% weight loss observed in the placebo group.

A Closer Look at the Study

Jeff Emmick, M.D., Ph.D., Senior Vice President of Product Development at Eli Lilly, commented on the findings: “Obesity is a global epidemic affecting nearly 900 million adults and increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Tirzepatide’s 94% reduction in diabetes risk and its ability to support sustained weight loss throughout the three-year study emphasize its transformative potential for those struggling with obesity and pre-diabetes.”

The SURMOUNT-1 study spanned a total of 193 weeks, including a 17-week off-treatment follow-up period. The primary analysis results were previously published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2022, confirming tirzepatide’s significant impact on diabetes prevention. The latest results reinforce these findings, with both the efficacy estimand and treatment-regimen estimand showing reductions in diabetes risk of 94% and 93%, respectively.

Secondary Endpoints and Weight Management

Beyond diabetes risk reduction, tirzepatide demonstrated substantial efficacy in weight management. Participants receiving tirzepatide achieved significant weight reductions across all dosages. At the end of the 176-week treatment period, average weight reductions were recorded as 15.4% for the 5 mg dose, 19.9% for the 10 mg dose, and 22.9% for the 15 mg dose, compared to a modest 2.1% for those on placebo. During the 17-week off-treatment period, there was a noticeable weight regain among those who discontinued tirzepatide, though the risk of diabetes progression remained 88% lower compared to the placebo group.

Safety Profile and Mechanism of Action

The safety profile of tirzepatide over the study period was consistent with previous findings. Adverse events were primarily gastrointestinal, including diarrhea, nausea, constipation, and vomiting, all of which were generally mild to moderate in severity.

Tirzepatide operates as a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. GLP-1 regulates appetite and caloric intake, while the addition of GIP further aids in controlling food intake. Tirzepatide reduces calorie consumption by modulating appetite and enhances insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner. These effects contribute to improved insulin sensitivity and reduced blood glucose levels, which are crucial for managing and preventing type 2 diabetes.

Future Prospects and Upcoming Presentations

These topline results underscore the potential of tirzepatide as a long-term therapeutic solution for managing weight and preventing diabetes. Detailed study results will be submitted for peer-reviewed publication and presented at ObesityWeek 2024, taking place from November 3-6.