The short answer
People interviewed after SURMOUNT-4 described changes in appetite, energy and how clothes fitted, alongside digestive side effects. These were personal experiences, not guaranteed treatment effects.
Who was interviewed?
Researchers spoke with 86 US participants after the trial. Their average age was about 50; 83% were women. The interviews explored both tirzepatide treatment and the injection pen.
Themes, not outcome rates
Appetite
Described in interviews
Energy
Described in interviews
Clothing fit
Described in interviews
Digestive symptoms
Described in interviews
Original visual based on the study.
| Group or measure | Result |
|---|---|
| Appetite | Described in interviews |
| Energy | Described in interviews |
| Clothing fit | Described in interviews |
| Digestive symptoms | Described in interviews |
What did people say?
Every interviewee described at least one perceived benefit during the initial phase when everyone received tirzepatide. Many valued the weight-loss effect and found the single-use pen easy to use. Most said they would be willing to continue treatment.
Digestive symptoms were also part of their experience.
How should we read this?
Interviews reveal what matters in daily life, beyond an average weight-loss number. They cannot tell us how often every new user will experience the same benefits.
People with positive experiences may have been more willing to participate. Almost everyone interviewed completed all treatment doses and visits, so those who struggled or stopped earlier were poorly represented.
Sources
Carmichael and colleagues, The Patient, 2025. Funded by Eli Lilly. Read the study.