Britain is set to launch a significant study to explore whether Eli Lilly's weight loss drug, tirzepatide (marketed as Mounjaro in the UK), can facilitate the return to work for individuals with obesity and alleviate the economic strain caused by long-term sickness. The initiative follows Lilly's £279 million ($365.4 million) investment in Britain, announced during a summit hosted by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
The study, coordinated by the University of Manchester, will involve up to 3,000 participants. Researchers will collect data on health-related quality of life, changes in employment status, and sick days taken from work. Health Minister Wes Streeting emphasized the potential of these drugs to transform the nation's health, noting that obesity costs the NHS £11 billion annually and contributes to increased sick leave and workforce attrition.
Clinical and Economic Implications
Streeting highlighted the potential long-term benefits of weight loss drugs in tackling obesity, stating, "For many people, these weight-loss jabs will be life-changing, help them get back to work, and ease the demands on our NHS." The NHS plans to provide Mounjaro to nearly a quarter of a million people over three years.
NHS Chief Executive Amanda Pritchard added that the study would provide valuable insights for the health service, stating, "Obesity is one of the biggest public health issues we face, and we know weight loss drugs will be a game-changer."
Mounjaro's Efficacy and Usage
Tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Mounjaro, has demonstrated significant weight loss benefits in clinical trials. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine indicated that patients taking Mounjaro achieved greater weight loss compared to those on semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy). The drug is administered via injection and mimics the hormone GLP-1, promoting feelings of fullness and reducing hunger.
Addressing Unhealthy Lifestyles
Streeting cautioned that while Mounjaro can be a valuable tool, it is not a standalone solution. He emphasized the need for individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles to prevent further strain on the NHS. "The NHS can't be expected to always pick up the tab for unhealthy lifestyles," he stated.
Expert Perspectives
Former health minister Lord Bethell stressed the importance of shifting towards preventative measures to avoid medicalizing the national obesity problem. Obesity policy specialist Dr Dolly van Tulleken raised concerns about the feasibility of the plan, given the large eligible population and limited specialist weight management services. She also criticized the focus on economic value rather than individual needs.
