Question 1

What is the Meaning of SURMOUNT Trial?

Accepted Answer

The SURMOUNT Trial refers to a comprehensive series of global clinical studies designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tirzepatide, a novel dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, for chronic weight management in adults. These trials specifically focus on individuals living with obesity or those classified as overweight with at least one weight-related comorbidity, excluding type 2 diabetes, which is addressed in separate trials.

Question 2

What is the Context of SURMOUNT Trial?

Accepted Answer

This series of clinical trials operates within the broader context of metabolic health, addressing obesity as a chronic disease that significantly impacts overall well-being and predisposes individuals to numerous health complications. Obesity management represents a critical area in endocrinology and primary care. The SURMOUNT program aims to establish a robust evidence base for new pharmacological approaches to support substantial and sustained weight reduction, contributing to improved health outcomes for affected individuals.

Question 3

What is the Significance of SURMOUNT Trial?

Accepted Answer

The practical importance of these trials is substantial, providing critical evidence for a new therapeutic option in the complex landscape of obesity treatment. Findings from SURMOUNT trials have demonstrated significant reductions in body weight, which directly influences patient symptoms related to obesity, such as joint pain, fatigue, and sleep apnea. Ultimately, the successful outcomes observed have the potential to improve metabolic parameters and reduce the long-term health risks associated with excess weight, thereby enhancing overall patient health.

Question 4

What is the Mechanism of SURMOUNT Trial?

Accepted Answer

Tirzepatide, the investigational agent in the SURMOUNT Trial, exerts its effect through a unique dual agonism of both GIP and GLP-1 receptors. This combined action leads to enhanced glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressed glucagon secretion, and delayed gastric emptying, all contributing to improved glycemic control. Crucially for weight management, tirzepatide also acts centrally to reduce appetite and decrease food intake, facilitating sustained caloric deficit and subsequent body weight loss at a systemic level.

Question 5

What is the Application of SURMOUNT Trial?

Accepted Answer

In clinical practice, the findings from SURMOUNT trials support the application of tirzepatide as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection for chronic weight management. It is prescribed for adults diagnosed with obesity, defined by a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or greater, or for those who are overweight with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or greater and possess at least one weight-related comorbidity. This medication is intended to be used as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to support a person's health journey towards a healthier weight.

Question 6

What is the Metric of SURMOUNT Trial?

Accepted Answer

The effectiveness of interventions studied in the SURMOUNT Trial is primarily measured by the percentage change in body weight from baseline to specific time points. Other key metrics include the proportion of participants achieving specific weight loss thresholds, such as 5%, 10%, or 15% body weight reduction. Additionally, changes in waist circumference, BMI, and various cardiometabolic biomarkers like HbA1c, fasting glucose, lipid profiles, and blood pressure are meticulously monitored to assess broader health improvements.

Question 7

What is the Risk of SURMOUNT Trial?

Accepted Answer

While demonstrating considerable benefit, the use of tirzepatide, as evaluated in the SURMOUNT Trial, carries potential risks and side effects. Common adverse events are primarily gastrointestinal, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Less common but serious risks encompass pancreatitis, gallbladder issues such as cholelithiasis and cholecystitis, and acute kidney injury, often secondary to fluid loss from severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Due to findings in rodent studies, a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 represents a contraindication, necessitating careful patient selection and ongoing medical supervision.

SURMOUNT Trial

Meaning

Context

Significance

Mechanism

Application

Metric

Risk

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