The potential effect of Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) on Leptin hormone and some biochemical markers in Obese Iraqi individuals

Abstract

Tirzepatide is a once-weekly injectable medication that acts as a dual incretin receptor agonist, stimulating glucose-dependent insulin release, reducing hepatic glucagon production, slowing gastric emptying, and inducing satiety. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Mounjaro (tirzepatide) injection on May 13, 2022, for improving glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D). It is a very good alternative for the treatment of T2D because of its strong weight-loss benefits and high glycemic-lowering efficacy. The study aimed to assess the impact of the weight loss drug tirzepatide on leptin and some biochemical parameters before and after three months of treatment. Blood samples were collected from 50 people aged 25 to 65 years who had been receiving ‎tirzepatide for at least 3 months as part of their obesity treatment. Participants in the study were placed on a ‎low-calorie diet and tirzepatide treatment plan, starting at 2.5 mg/day in the first month, 5.0 mg/day in ‎the second month, and increasing to the target dose of 10 mg/day in the third month.‎ Leptin levels and some biochemical markers were measured before and after three months of treatment with tirzepatide. Results indicated that none of the participants experienced pancreatic or thyroid disorders during the trial. After three months, significant reductions were observed in weight, body mass index (BMI), Fasting blood glucose (FBG), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and an increase in leptin levels. Additionally, the results revealed an increase in leptin levels and a decrease in TSH levels after treatment with tirzepatide, which may be an indication of a relationship between the drug and leptin. Metabolic measurements, including weight, body mass index, blood sugar, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, also showed improvement.