Eli Lilly cautions against ‘cosmetic’ use of popular weight loss medication
Eli Lilly Warns Against Misuse of Weight Loss Drugs
The pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly has issued a strong warning regarding the misuse of its popular weight loss drugs. In a press statement released on Thursday, the company emphasized that these drugs should only be used by patients diagnosed with obesity or diabetes.
“Lilly is committed to meeting the needs of people affected by diabetes and obesity with treatment options that change the way healthcare providers can treat these diseases and offer breakthroughs for patients,” the statement read. “Mounjaro and Zepbound are indicated for the treatment of serious diseases; they are not approved for — and should not be used for — cosmetic weight loss.”
The drugs in question, Mounjaro and Zepbound, are brand names for the chemical tirzepatide. The Food and Drug Administration has approved Mounjaro for the treatment of Type II diabetes and Zepbound for obesity. It is worth noting that Zepbound received FDA approval in early November.
These medications, along with similar products like Ozempic and Wegovy made by Novo Nordisk, have gained significant attention in 2023 due to new data showcasing their weight loss and cardiovascular benefits. This has led to a surge in demand for these drugs.
While fourth-quarter earnings reports for 2023 are not yet available for Eli Lilly or Novo Nordisk, sales of Mounjaro have contributed significantly to Lilly’s third-quarter revenue. In fact, Ozempic and Wegovy have generated record-breaking profits for Novo Nordisk in the second and third quarters.
In addition to cautioning against the misuse of their drugs, Eli Lilly also strongly advises against the use of tirzepatide compounds that are mixed by pharmacists instead of being purchased directly from the manufacturer. Although this practice is sometimes necessary for patients with allergies, the limited supply of these popular obesity and diabetes drugs has led to the off-label production of these compounds.
In late December, the FDA announced an investigation into “counterfeit Ozempic,” which refers to compounded versions of the chemical semaglutide. The FDA recommended that retail pharmacies only purchase authentic Ozempic from authorized Novo Nordisk distributors.
It is unclear whether the FDA will expand its investigation to include counterfeit production of Lilly’s products, as the agency did not respond to the Washington Examiner’s request for comment.
“Patient safety is Lilly’s top priority,” the press statement emphasized. “We actively monitor, evaluate, and report safety information for all our medicines. We want to address certain practices related to our tirzepatide medicines publicly to ensure their safe prescription and use.”
A spokesperson for Novo Nordisk echoed Lilly’s commitment to responsible medication use, particularly for Ozempic and Wegovy.
“The products are not interchangeable and should not be used outside of their approved indications,” the spokesperson stated.
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What drug is used off-label for weight loss?
Then in November 2023, the FDA approved a second drug as a treatment for obesity alone. That drug, tirzepatide, is sold under the brand name Zepbound. Tirzepatide is already available under a different name, Mounjaro, which is approved as a diabetes treatment but is prescribed off-label for weight loss. D for these drugs, particularly for non-medical purposes such as cosmetic weight loss.
However, Eli Lilly’s warning serves as a reminder that these drugs should only be used under proper medical supervision and for their intended purposes. Misuse or abuse of these medications can have serious health consequences and may not yield the desired results.
The statement by Eli Lilly highlights the company’s commitment to providing treatment options that address the specific needs of patients with obesity and diabetes. They emphasize that drugs like Mounjaro and Zepbound are designed to treat serious diseases and offer breakthroughs in managing these conditions. They are not intended or approved for cosmetic weight loss.
It is important to note that Mounjaro has FDA approval for the treatment of Type II diabetes, while Zepbound received FDA approval specifically for obesity treatment. These approvals indicate that these drugs have undergone rigorous testing and have shown effectiveness and safety in managing these conditions.
The increasing attention and demand for weight loss drugs like Mounjaro and Zepbound can be attributed to recent data highlighting their potential benefits in weight loss and improving cardiovascular health. However, it is crucial for individuals to understand that these drugs should only be used under the guidance of healthcare professionals and for their prescribed purposes.
The misuse or abuse of weight loss drugs can have serious consequences on an individual’s health. Side effects, drug interactions, and the potential for addiction are just a few of the risks associated with their improper use. Additionally, using these drugs for cosmetic purposes may lead to unrealistic expectations and disappointment.
Eli Lilly’s warning serves as a reminder to prioritize health and safety when considering weight loss options. Instead of seeking quick fixes or cosmetic solutions, it is important to adopt a holistic approach to weight management that includes proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and professional medical guidance.
In conclusion, Eli Lilly’s warning against the misuse of weight loss drugs like Mounjaro and Zepbound highlights the need for responsible and informed use of these medications. Their intended purposes should be respected, and they should only be used under medical supervision for the treatment of obesity and diabetes. It is essential for individuals to prioritize their health and consult healthcare professionals for personalized weight management plans.
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