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Breakthrough weight-loss drug cuts diabetes risk by 94%
Tirzepatide, a revolutionary weight-loss medication, has been found to dramatically reduce the risk of developing diabetes by up to 94%, according to Eli Lilly's latest research. The drug, which also helps people shed nearly a quarter of their body weight, offers new hope for individuals with pre-diabetes and obesity. However, some experts caution that more detailed data is needed to fully assess its long-term impact. As demand for these treatments grows, access and affordability remain key challenges.
Novel anti-obesity drugs like GLP-1 medications and recently the GLP-1/GIP agonist tirzepatide are gaining attention for their ability to prevent diabetes, particularly in individuals with obesity. The SURMOUNT-1 study found that participants with pre-diabetes who took a 15 mg weekly dose of tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) lost an average of 23% of their body weight, reducing their risk of developing diabetes by 94%. This substantial weight loss and diabetes risk reduction highlights the drug's potential in tackling obesity-related health issues. However, experts urge caution, as the pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly that manufactures tirzepatide, has not yet provided detailed data to fully evaluate these findings.
Tirzepatide, marketed as both Zepbound for weight loss and Mounjaro for diabetes, joins other novel anti obesity drugs like semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) in offering hope to millions struggling with weight management. Despite the excitement, these medications are expected to remain in short supply due to high demand. Novo Nordisk, the maker of semaglutide, has already paused advertising for Wegovy because of production issues.
SURMOUNT-1 is the longest and most comprehensive study of tirzepatide for patients with prediabetes: In the SURMOUNT-1 study, nearly 2,000 volunteers with prediabetes received tirzepatide, while a control group received a placebo and lifestyle counseling. All participants had severe overweight or obesity.
The study lasted 176 weeks (about 3 years) and included 1,032 adults.
Tirzepatide reduced the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 94% compared to the placebo.
After 176 weeks, patients who took tirzepatide achieved an average weight loss of:
- 15.4% (5 mg dose)
- 19.9% (10 mg dose)
- 22.9% (15 mg dose)
Compared to 2.1% for the placebo group.
Even after discontinuing the drug, participants experienced a long-term reduction in their risk of developing diabetes, although some regained weight. This reinforces the importance of combining medication with healthy lifestyle habits to prevent weight rebound.
As the science evolves, the success stories of individuals like Jane and Mark—who reversed their pre-diabetes with the help of tirzepatide—underscore the life-changing potential of these medications. However, the future of diabetes prevention will likely require a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and broader healthcare support to address the growing demand for effective weight-loss solutions.
Read the full report: USA Today
September 24, 2024
January 13, 2026
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