What Are the Risks and Benefits of Weight-Loss Shot?
Psychology TodayDec 24, 2022
The Facts
On Thursday, Eli Lilly, makers of Tirzepatide — approved to treat Type 2 diabetes under the brand name "Mounjaro" — announced the results of their study, claiming the injectable drug helped obese people with diabetes lose weight and reduce their blood sugar.
The trial evaluated more than 900 adults with obesity and Type 2 diabetes over a 72-week period. Patients on a 15mg dose of Mounjaro lost an average of 15.7% of their body weight, while those on a 10mg dose achieved an average weight reduction of 13.4%.
The Spin
Narrative A
Like high blood pressure, obesity should be viewed as a chronic disease that can be managed with medication. Research has shown that merely relying on diet, exercise, and willpower does not reduce body weight substantially. Since it targets the digestive and chemical pathways that underlie obesity, Mounjaro could set a new bar for weight loss and help nearly 42% of all adults who qualify as obese in the US.
Narrative B
Drugmakers are trying to capitalize on increased consumer demand for weight loss miracles. As it is designed to activate hormones that regulate blood sugar, delay digestion, and suppress appetite, Mounjaro may further perpetuate a dangerous diet culture that idealizes weight loss and slim bodies if the FDA approves it for weight management. People should stay clear of drugs that override human metabolism.
Narrative C
Obesity isn't just a cosmetic concern; it is a complicated issue that needs more than medications. To reverse the obesity epidemic, the federal government must be willing to take concrete action because the alternative is to normalize it as an irreparable health issue, allowing Big Pharma to reap billions off the obesity gold rush.
