Tirzepatide Argentina: Cost & Anti-Obesity Drug Info

The arrival of the in Tirzepati to Argentina marked a before and after in the approach to type 2 diabetes and the obesity. The drug, recently approved by the National Administration of Medicines, Foods and Medical Technology (ANMAT), is marketed under the name Mounjaro and generated enormous expectations both in the medical field and among patients, due to its unprecedented results in glycemic control y dweight loss.

Developed by the laboratory Eli LillyMounjaro is promoted, marketed and distributed in the country by the Adium’s laboratorywithin the framework of an agreement between both companies. It is a weekly injectable medication, which comes in a prefilled KwikPen, similar to those used by people with diabetes to take insulin.

Dr. Daniel (Dong Hoo) Woo (MN 106085), head of the Nutrition Section of the Italian Hospital and doctor of Health Sciences, explains that Tirzepatide “mimics two natural hormones in the body, known as incretins: GLP-1 and the GIP“This double action is the great novelty of the drug.”Improves insulin secretion, reduces insulin resistance, decreases appetite at the brain level and increases satiety by slowing down gastrointestinal transit,” he details. The result is a better glycemic control and one weight loss significant, “without great suffering.”

Why does it generate so much expectation?

According to Woo, Clinical trials showed weight loss that far exceeds that of other available medications and that, in some cases, “they come close to the results of a bariatric surgerya”. Unlike drugs such as liraglutide or semaglutide, which act only on the GLP-1 receptor, Tirzepatide adds the effect of GIP, which enhances its effectiveness.

Studies indicate that Patients can lose between 15% and 26% of their body weightan unprecedented number for a pharmacological treatment. “It is not the same as surgery, which usually achieves a greater and faster descent, but it is a less invasive alternative and very valuable for those who cannot or do not want to have surgery, or even as a prior step to bariatric surgery,” clarifies the specialist.

It is not to lose “a few extra kilos”

One of the messages that the nutritionist emphasizes most is that Mounjaro does not have an aesthetic purpose. It is indicated for people with obesity (BMI greater than or equal to 30), for those who have overweight (BMI greater than or equal to 27) with comorbidities —such as hypertension, prediabetes, high cholesterol, or sleep apnea—and for patients with type 2 diabetes.

“Tirzepatide is a tool, not a replacement for habit changes“Woo emphasizes. “It should always be accompanied by a healthy eating and physical activity. Without a lifestyle change, the drug loses effectiveness.”

In this sense, he recommends a balanced dietlow glycemic index, rich in fiber and omega 3, with good hydration and regular meals. “Small portions, eating slowly and chewing well are key,” he adds.

Like all medications, Tirzepatide is not harmless. The adverse effectss most frequent are gastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and reflux. For this reason, the treatment is staggered: it starts with 2.5 mg weekly so that the body adapts and then the dose is progressively increased according to the patient’s tolerance and response.

“The use without medical supervision “It can cause problems, frustrations or weight rebound,” warns Woo. “It is not for everyone and can interact with other medications.”

Furthermore, studies show that, If the treatment is suspended without having consolidated profound changes in habits, there is a high probability of regaining the lost weight.. “Obesity is a chronic disease. If treatment is stopped, it can reappear, as happens with hypertension or diabetes,” he explains.

How much does Tirzepatide cost in Argentina

Mounjaro sold by prescription and is currently available in two presentations. The 2.5 milligram version, which contains four 0.6 milliliter doses, is priced at $584.199,20while the presentation of 5 milligrams costs 783.858,40 pesos.

The most frequent adverse effects are digestive and usually appear at the beginning of treatment.

The high price is one of the main obstacles to sustaining treatment over time. “Many people can start it, but end up quitting because they can’t sustain it financially,” Woo admits. Regarding coverage, he points out that “For diabetes there is usually some level of coverage, but for obesity it is a constant struggle, because many social and prepaid insurance plans still do not recognize it as a disease.”

Faced with the boom that his arrival in the country generated, the specialist insists on a key message that runs through the entire debate around the in Tirzepatithe type 2 diabetes and the obesity. The impact of Mounjarowith its results in glycemic control y weight lossraises understandable expectations, but also demands responsibility. “Tirzepatide is not a magic solution, but it is a very powerful tool when it is well indicated and used responsibly,” Woo points out. And he concludes with a warning that seeks to put the focus beyond the medication: “The real change is not just in the injection, but in learning and sustaining healthy habits. Success is not measured only by the number on the scale, but by improving comprehensive metabolic health.”