Hong Kong's Department of Health has approved Eli Lilly's Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes in adults. The drug is expected to be available in December. This approval comes amidst growing global interest in weight-loss medications, fueled in part by celebrity endorsements, but experts are urging caution against using such drugs solely for cosmetic purposes.
Tirzepatide distinguishes itself from other approved medications like Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic (semaglutide) by targeting two hormones involved in slowing down food digestion, whereas semaglutide targets only one. This dual-hormone action may offer a different or enhanced therapeutic effect for some patients.
The approval specifies that Mounjaro is intended for use in adults with obesity or those who are overweight and also have weight-related medical problems. These conditions include hypertension, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obstructive sleep apnea, or cardiovascular disease. A spokesman for Eli Lilly emphasized that the drug is not intended for cosmetic weight loss.
The rise in popularity of weight-loss drugs, partly driven by endorsements from celebrities like Elon Musk and Oprah Winfrey, has led to increased demand and, in some cases, global shortages. Healthcare professionals have cautioned against the unsupervised use of these medications, highlighting the importance of a doctor's prescription and medical supervision.
While these drugs have demonstrated efficacy in weight management and glycemic control, experts emphasize that they should be used responsibly and under medical guidance to ensure patient safety and appropriate utilization.
