A recent study has shown that tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) can lead to significant weight loss, better diabetes control, and reduced insulin needs in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) who are overweight or obese. The research, published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings, aimed to assess the impact of tirzepatide on weight, diabetes management, and insulin usage in this patient group, as well as its safety and effects on heart and metabolic health.
In an observational study published in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, the researchers found that tirzepatide reduced both hemoglobin A1c levels and body weight in adults with T1D. However, they noted that more rigorous randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm its long-term safety and effectiveness.
This study is the first to examine the effects of tirzepatide in adults with type 1 diabetes, according to the authors. The results showed promising improvements in blood sugar control and weight loss.
The research took place between June 2022 and October 2023 at Mayo Clinic, with 51 participants enrolled. Of these, 58.8% were female, and 96.1% were White. All participants were adults aged 18 or older, with a history of obesity or at least one obesity-related health condition, and were treated with weekly subcutaneous injections of tirzepatide.
The study collected data on patient demographics, clinical factors, and lab results. The primary outcome measured was the percentage of total body weight loss at the final follow-up. Secondary outcomes included weight loss at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, changes in hemoglobin A1c, adjustments in daily insulin doses, and improvements in continuous glucose monitoring results. The study also tracked any adverse effects.
The findings revealed an 8.5% average weight loss after a median follow-up of 8 months. After 12 months, participants had lost an average of 12.2% of their body weight. By the end of the study, 76.5% of participants had lost at least 5% of their total body weight, with all patients reaching this milestone after 12 months.
Participants also saw a 0.9% decrease in hemoglobin A1c levels and a 31.6% reduction in daily insulin requirements. Notably, the study found no increased risk of hypoglycemia. Both basal and bolus insulin needs dropped, with the most significant reductions occurring within the first six months of treatment.
Additionally, several heart health and metabolic markers improved. There were decreases in diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and alanine aminotransferase levels. Although systolic blood pressure also showed a downward trend, the change was not statistically significant.
About 29.4% of participants reported at least one adverse effect, with nausea being the most common, experienced by 7 patients. Other gastrointestinal issues were reported, and three patients discontinued therapy due to adverse effects, while four required a reduction in their dosage. Four patients reported hypoglycemia, but none required assistance or stopped the treatment, and there were no cases of diabetic ketoacidosis.
The study authors emphasized the need for future research to explore the long-term effects of tirzepatide, particularly focusing on cardiovascular outcomes in this population.
