Administração Nacional of Medicamentos, Alimentos and Tecnologias Médicas (Anmat) approved the commercialization of tirzepatide in the country. The drug, the first dual agonist of GIP and GLP-1 receptors, will be available in Argentine pharmacies from December. Desenvolvida by Eli Lilly and distributed by Adium in most América Latina and Caribe countries, the substance is indicated for the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Application occurs subcutaneously, once a week, in doses ranging from 2.5 mg to 15 mg. Treatment requires a medical prescription and must be associated with a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
Dual action mechanism explains greater effectiveness
Tirzepatide acts simultaneously on GLP-1 and GIP receptors, two natural incretin hormones. GLP-1 increases the feeling of satiety, delays gastric emptying and stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion. GIP improves insulin sensitivity and regulates lipid metabolism in adipose tissue.
This combination results in an average weight loss of more than 25% in clinical studies, a value that is close to the results obtained with bariatric surgery.
Indications and target audience for treatment
The medicine is intended for adults who are obese (BMI ≥ 30) or overweight (BMI ≥ 27) accompanied by at least one comorbidity. Entre associated conditions are hypertension, dyslipidemia, sleep apnea, prediabetes and established cardiovascular disease. Também serves as an adjuvant in the control of type 2 diabetes when other treatments do not achieve glycemic goals.
Patient selection and dose adjustment are the sole responsibility of the physician.
Method of administration and practical dosage
The commercial presentation takes place in a disposable pre-filled pen (KwikPen) with four doses. The regimen starts with 2.5 mg in the first week, with gradual increases every four weeks until the maintenance dose. Mais 90% of patients tolerate escalation well, according to data presented by experts.
Subcutaneous administration can be done in the abdomen, thigh or arm, without the need for reconstitution.
Price and access to medicine in the country
Each pen with four doses costs between 500,000 and 700,000 Argentine pesos, depending on the concentration. The Adium laboratory offers a 30% discount for patients with a valid medical prescription. Coverage for social works and prepayments is still in the process of individual negotiation.
Epidemiological context in Argentina and region
The last Encuesta Nacional of Factores of Riesgo (2018) showed that 66.1% of Argentine adults are overweight or obese. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes reaches 12.7% of the adult population. Na América Latina, 67.5% of adults are overweight, a percentage that could reach 73.2% by 2030, according to PAHO projections.
These figures place the arrival of tirzepatide as an additional tool in the management of chronic non-communicable diseases.
Additional benefits seen in studies
In addition to weight loss, the medication improves cardiovascular parameters and reduces the risk of progression from prediabetes to overt diabetes. Pacientes with heart failure and hepatic steatosis also show relevant clinical gains. Organização Mundial of Saúde recently included GLP-1 agonists, including tirzepatide, in its global guidelines for obesity management.
The substance represents a therapeutic advance by offering a weekly injectable option with sustained results when associated with lifestyle changes.
