GLP-1 treatment options

The current FDA approved medication tirzepatide is the leading weight loss medication in terms of efficacy and marketed as both Zepbound (FDA approved in 2023) and Mounjaro (FDA approved in 2022). Tirzepatide is revolutionary in efficacy with a favorable risk/benefit profile in many individuals. Dosing can be quite variable with a wide therapeutic range and should be tailored as part of a holistic approach to weight loss. Goal of this therapeutic regimen is to find your minimal effective dose and avoid dose escalation. Numerical weight loss on the scale can be deceiving as muscle loss can be significant in men. Goal of the tailored regimen is body recomposition for men with more muscle mass and less fat mass. Adequate muscle mass allows for better weight maintenance as it is more metabolically active with greater caloric demand than adipose tissue. The clinical practice paradox is that with better weight control, it is less likely for insurance companies to cover tailored GLP-1 treatment options.