WeightControl.com Interview with:
Dr Thomas Karagiannis MD
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki, Greece
WeightControl.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?
Response: Previous individual studies have shown that both subcutaneous semaglutide and tirzepatide are very effective in managing blood sugar and reducing body weight in people with type 2 diabetes. However, direct comparisons between these medications have been limited.
In our study, we used a technique called a network meta-analysis to indirectly compare the two. This method allowed us to derive results by examining other trials that compared either of the drugs with placebo or another treatment.
Our findings indicated that tirzepatide had a stronger effect than semaglutide in controlling blood sugar and aiding weight loss. For example, those on the highest dose of tirzepatide lost, on average, 5.7 kg more than those on the highest dose of semaglutide. But, it’s worth mentioning that some side effects, especially related to the digestive system, were slightly more common with the high dose of tirzepatide.
WeightControl.com: What should readers take away from your report?
Response: Tirzepatide appears to outperform subcutaneous semaglutide in terms of reducing blood sugar control and weight among people with type 2 diabetes. Our analysis can help healthcare professionals make informed choices for managing type 2 diabetes, especially for those patients for whom weight loss is an important goal. However, like any medication, it’s crucial to consider the entire profile of tirzepatide, including side effects.
WeightControl.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this work?
Response: It’s important to have research results on the long-term impact of tirzepatide, especially regarding cardiovascular outcomes. It’s worth noting that such a long-term cardiovascular trial is already underway comparing tirzepatide with dulaglutide, a glucose-lowering medication belonging to the GLP-1 RA class that has shown positive cardiovascular effects. Also, the effectiveness of tirzepatide should be validated in everyday clinical settings through well-designed observational studies.
WeightControl.com: Is there anything else you would like to add? Any disclosures?
Response: It is vital to approach findings with a balanced view. While our research suggests superiority of tirzepatide over semaglutide in the context of randomized controlled trials, it is prudent to accurately evaluate the drug holistically based on its long-term safety profile, effect on cardiovascular outcomes, and cost-effectiveness.
As for disclosures, I would like to mention that our Clinical Research and Evidence-Based Medicine Unit at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (Greece) conducted this research independently, without external funding.
Citation:
EASD presentation:
https://www.easd.org/annual-meeting/easd-2023.html
Tirzepatide compared to subcutaneous semaglutide for type 2 diabetes: a
network meta-analysis
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Last Updated on October 16, 2023 by weightcontrol