September 8, 2023

expert reaction to NICE recommending tirzepatide as a new treatment option for people with type 2 diabetes

NICE has announced that it will now recommend the medication tirzepatide as a treatment for type 2 diabetes.

Dr Martin Whyte, Associate Professor in Metabolic Medicine, University of Surrey, said:

“The announcement that Tirzepatide has received NICE approval is great news for patients living with diabetes.  Tirzepatide has been shown to be remarkably effective for glucose control, as well as leading to substantial weight loss of, on average, 15% over 70 weeks.  It has a convenient once-weekly dosing regimen and importantly, it carries a low risk of hypoglycemia, making it a safer choice in diabetes management.  It provides a valuable, additional option for treatment for people with diabetes.”

‘NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR HEALTH AND CARE EXCELLENCE Final draft guidance: Tirzepatide for treating type 2 diabetes’ was published by NICE at 00:01 UK time on Friday 8 September 2023.

Declared interests

Dr Martin Whyte: “No conflict of interest.”