The takeaway
Tirzepatide produced more weight loss than placebo in adults with type 1 diabetes and obesity. This was early research, with close clinical support.
The study
Researchers in Sydney randomized 24 adults for 12 weeks; 22 completed follow-up. Insulin continued, with clinician-supported adjustments. The estimated extra weight loss with tirzepatide was 8.7 kg after accounting for starting weight; the 95% confidence interval ranged from 5.5 to 12.0 kg more loss.
Adjusted for starting weight; 24 adults randomized
Tirzepatide versus placebo
8.7 kg more weight loss
Insulin
Continued with clinical support
Original visual based on the study.
| Group or measure | Result |
|---|---|
| Tirzepatide versus placebo | 8.7 kg more weight loss |
| Insulin | Continued with clinical support |
The trade-offs
Nausea affected half the tirzepatide group. Nonserious adverse events occurred in 75% versus 8.3%. No severe hypoglycemia, ketoacidosis or serious adverse events were reported. One tirzepatide participant withdrew with anxiety and difficulty attending visits.
What it means
A small, short trial cannot establish long-term safety or lasting weight loss. Most participants were White, and recent serious diabetes complications were excluded.
The project received foundation, research-award and private-donor funding. Funders had no role in interpreting the findings.