Tirzepatide users in SURMOUNT-J maintained eating habits but struggled with exercise post-trial
Background
Managing obesity disease effectively often requires long-term strategies, yet understanding patient experiences and adherence after clinical trials is crucial. The phase 3 SURMOUNT-J trial demonstrated that tirzepatide, a dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist, achieved significant weight loss in Japanese adults. However, the patient perspective on maintaining these changes and the desire for continued therapy post-trial remained underexplored. This qualitative study aimed to bridge that gap, providing insights into the lived experience of weight management during and after tirzepatide treatment.
Study Design
This was a cross-sectional, non-interventional, semi-structured, qualitative exit interview study conducted in Japan. Twenty-nine Japanese adults with obesity disease who had completed the 72-week SURMOUNT-J trial on tirzepatide were recruited. Participants completed a web-based semi-structured interview exploring their experiences with tirzepatide during the trial, body weight changes, and management strategies after the trial, as well as needs for healthcare provider support related to obesity disease treatment.
Results
During the SURMOUNT-J trial, 75.9% of participants reported experiencing appetite loss, and 72.4% consciously changed their eating habits. Positive feelings associated with body weight loss were reported by 62.1% of participants, with 58.6% experiencing joy from being able to choose new clothes and 51.7% noting lighter body movements. A significant 75.9% of participants expressed a strong willingness to continue drug therapy for their obesity disease.
After SURMOUNT-J concluded, 51.7% of participants successfully maintained their positive changes in eating behavior. However, 44.8% were unable to sustain their changes in exercise or physical activity, and 65.5% reported experiencing poor appetite control. The interviews also revealed a potential unmet need for providing comprehensive information and connecting individuals with obesity disease to appropriate medical interventions.
Key Findings
- 75.9% of participants experienced appetite loss during tirzepatide treatment.
- 72.4% reported conscious eating habit changes while on tirzepatide.
- 75.9% expressed a strong desire to continue drug therapy for obesity disease.
- Post-trial, 51.7% maintained eating behavior changes, but 44.8% could not maintain exercise habits.
- After the trial, 65.5% experienced poor appetite control.
Why It Matters
This study highlights the critical need for sustained support and therapeutic options for individuals managing obesity disease beyond the duration of a clinical trial. The strong desire of 75.9% of participants to continue tirzepatide therapy underscores the perceived benefit and the challenge of weight regain post-treatment. Clinicians and policymakers should consider long-term access to effective pharmacotherapy and integrated care plans that include behavioral support for exercise and appetite control. This suggests that current protocols, while effective for initial weight loss, may need to evolve to address the long-term maintenance phase, potentially through extended drug access or enhanced post-trial support programs.
tirzepatide
obesity
weight management
qualitative study
patient experience
japan