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Eli Lilly warns against use of tirzepatide for ‘cosmetic’ weight loss
In a letter dated January 4, 2024, Eli Lilly said that “Mounjaro and Zepbound are indicated for the treatment of serious diseases [diabetes and obesity/overweight, respectively] and that they are not approved for – and should not be used for – cosmetic weight loss.” The letter outlined the following recommendations and clinical considerations when prescribing tirzepatide:
- The company doesn’t promote or encourage use of Mounjaro, Zepbound, or any Lilly medicines outside of a its FDA-approved indication. Mounjaro is indicated along with diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 DM. Zepbound is indicated for adults with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m^2) or those who are overweight (BMI ≥27 kg/m^2) with at least 1 weight-related additional condition, such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, T2DM, obstructive sleep apnea, or CV disease. It should be used with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
- Mounjaro and Zepbound should only be used when prescribed by a licensed HCP. Patients should discuss with their HCPs to determine whether Mounjaro or Zepbound is appropriate for them. Mounjaro and Zepbound haven’t been studied in patients with severe GI disease, including severe gastroparesis, and are therefore not recommended in such patients.
- HCPs should review the Instructions for Use that accompany Mounjaro and Zepbound and the information about Mounjaro’s and Zepbound’s risks contained in the Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide for both medications.
- If an HCP has questions about the use of Lilly’s tirzepatide medicines, they're encouraged to contact the manufacturer at 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979).
Note: The letter also outlines the safety risks of using compounded tirzepatide.
Source:
Eli Lilly, Inc. (2024, January 2). Open Letter Regarding the Use of Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide). [Press Release]. https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/open-letter-regarding-use-mounjaror-tirzepatide-and-zepboundtm