Semaglutide & Tirzepatide

Recently, a 32-year-old businessman from Agra (105 kg) developed gastroparesis after self-injecting tirzepatide (bought from Dubai) without medical supervision.

• He took the highest dosage (15 mg) within a month, leading to severe complications and bariatric surgery.
• About Gastroparesis & Associated Risks:

o Gastroparesis is the partial paralysis of stomach muscles, leading to delayed digestion.

o Causes include diabetes, tissue disease, neurological disorders, or drug overuse.

o Poses risks during life-saving surgeries due to undigested food in the stomach.

• Semaglutide: Used for weight loss and blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes. It helps reduce major cardiovascular events and chronic kidney disease risks.
• Tirzepatide (Zepbound): Approved for weight loss and weight maintenance.

o Works by reducing appetite and slowing gastric emptying, making one feel full for longer.

• Other Side Effects:Loss of muscle mass in gluteal & facial areas instead of the abdomen →  Mental health issues, including suicidal thoughts in some cases → Rebound weight gain after stopping the medication →  Long-term effects unknown, as these drugs are not yet available in India.