A New Weight-Loss Drug Could Be a Complete Game Changer. 'Psychologically, You Don't Want to Eat.'
Mounjaro is a diabetes drug that is used to treat obesity and is forecast to make $50 billion in sales annually.
Recently, the use of diabetes drugs for weight loss has become more popular.
Brand names like Ozempic or Wegovy are so popular among celebrities in Hollywood and TikTokers that they have caused a nationwide shortage of diabetic medications.
Another major development is about to rock the anti-obesity craze. According to Eli Lilly, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration could approve Mounjaro for weight loss by this year. The company has just finished a late stage study on the drug to help with weight loss. Participants lost over 50 pounds in less than 17 months.
CBS News reported that Dr. Nadia Ahmad is Lilly's director of clinical development for obesity.
Analysts predict generic Mounjaro (tizepatide) could become the most popular drug ever. According to Evaluate Pharma, sales could reach $50 billion by 2028. Novo Nordisk (which makes Ozempic, Wegovy and other products) reported sales of $2.4 billion combined in 2022.
What is the Mounjaro system?
FDA approved Mounjaro last year for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. The drug is administered via weekly injections. It works by activating hormones that are naturally produced in the human body. These hormones help reduce appetite and increase feelings fullness. The drug also blocks chemical signals sent from the stomach to the brain that are associated with cravings.
Matthew Barlow, an executive in health technology, told CBS News that "Psychologically you don't feel like eating." "Now I can have two bites and still be satisfied," said Matthew Barlow, a health technology executive.
Although the drug has been shown to be safe in clinical trials, it can cause nausea and constipation.
One monthly dose could cost up to $1,400. If the FDA approves the drug for weight loss, then insurance companies may be more willing to cover the cost of the prescription.