Tirzepatide Long-Term Side Effects: Is It Worth Consuming?

Tirzepatide Long-Term Side Effects: Is it worth consuming?

Tirzepatide, marketed under the brand names Mounjaro and Zepbound, is a dual GLP-1 (Glucagon-like Peptide-1) and GIP (Glucose-dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide) receptor agonist (substance that binds to a receptor and triggers a response in a cell, causing the cell to become more active) approved by the FDA for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Although the benefits are attractive, there are some long-term side effects.

A famous brand, Mounjaro, has included pancreatitis (inflammation of your pancreas), cholelithiasis (Acute gallbladder disease), and more on its FDA label. The common side effects include, but are not limited to, nausea, reduced appetite, and diarrhoea.

What is Tirzepatide

In the UAE, the US, and Europe, Tirzepatide has been the first dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor co-agonist to win approval for treating type 2 diabetes. By activating both receptors, it enhances insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar levels) release, and reduces appetite, leading to improved glycemic control and weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity.

FDA Black Box Warning

The FDA has issued a black box warning for tirzepatide due to the risk of thyroid C-cell tumours observed in rodent studies. While the relevance to humans remains uncertain, the warning advises against its use in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).

MEN 2 is a rare, inherited condition causing tumors in endocrine glands, particularly the thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands.

Common Side Effects of Tirzepatide

Most adverse effects associated with tirzepatide are gastrointestinal and tend to diminish over time. Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Decreased appetite

These symptoms are generally mild to moderate and often resolve as the body adjusts to the medication.

Important: Available only in injection form. No oral or liquid formulations of dual GLP-1/GIP co-agonists have received FDA approval as of now.

Critical and Rare Side Effects

While rare, some serious adverse effects have been reported:

• Acute Pancreatitis: A rare but reported side effect is inflammation of the pancreas. Discontinue immediately if signs occur.
• Cholelithiasis: Both in MOUNJARO and Zepbound, Tirzepatide adverse effects include acute gallbladder disease. People with suspected ‘cholelithiasis’ should inform their doctors in advance.
• Hepatotoxicity: Liver injury, though uncommon, has been documented.
• Acute Kidney Injury: Associated with dehydration from gastrointestinal side effects.

These events are infrequent but necessitate monitoring, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions.

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Precautionary Measures

Patients considering tirzepatide should:

• Undergo baseline and periodic monitoring of thyroid function, liver enzymes, and renal function.
• Avoid when planning to have a baby or already have one in the womb.
• Discontinue use if symptoms of pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, or liver dysfunction arise.
• Consult healthcare providers before starting tirzepatide, especially if there is a history of thyroid cancer or endocrine disorders.

Common User Experiences

We surveyed and found majority of type 2 patients reporting better blood sugar levels and obese reporting significant weight loss. Many individuals are of the view that the long-term consequences of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, PCOS, or other related diseases can be worse than those of GLP-1. Overall, patient satisfaction is high, with many noting enhanced quality of life due to better metabolic health.

Remember: Only using Tirzepatide is not enough. Managing blood sugar involves a multi-dimensional approach. You need to consume a balanced diet, exercise daily, monitor your glucose, and take medication (if prescribed). And monitoring glucose is easier with CGM systems.

Conclusion

While Tirzepatide has a long history of effectiveness in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity, its black box warning regarding thyroid C-cell tumors highlights the utmost importance of careful patient selection. Although rare, Tirzepatide’s long-term side effects also include inflammation of the pancreas and a few other diseases. Thus, close monitoring is required before administering and during the treatment of this GLP-1. As far as the common tirzepatide side effects are concerned, they are generally mild and temporary.

Whether it’s Mounjaro side effects or Zepbound burps you are experiencing, do not ignore any side effects; talk to your doctor immediately. Patients should engage in thorough discussions with their healthcare providers to weigh the benefits and risks of tirzepatide in the context of their health profiles.

Disclaimer: This blog is only for informational purposes. Please always consult a doctor before taking any medical action.

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