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Transformative Weight Loss with Dulaglutide: A Success in Challenging Patient Profile of an Ex-sumo
Background •Dulaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA), a second-line agent used after metformin in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (Type 2 DM) for glycemic control.1 •In diabetic patients, weight loss reduces total mortality by 25% compared to those who do not lose weight, making it crucial in diabetic management. 2 •A meta-analysis showed that dulaglutide significantly reduced waist circumference, body weight, and BMI in Type 2 DM patients compared to placebo.3 •However, the applicability of dulaglutide for weight management is poorly explored for challenging patient profiles like morbidly obese patients with multiple comorbidities and concomitant antipsychotic use. 4
Case presentation •We present a case of a 27-year-old ex-sumo wrestler with bipolar II disorder, morbid obesity, hypertension, and Type 2 DM, and a BMI of 49.66 kg/m². •He was non-compliant with lifestyle modifications and resistant to conventional treatments, including metformin, and was also using multiple antipsychotic drugs. •After six months on dulaglutide, his daily calorie intake significantly decreased from 6924 to 2538, resulting in a 40 kg weight loss (-21%) and a BMI reduction of 10.3 kg/m² with no side effects and improved glycemic control This reduction was primarily due to a notable decreased appetite and an increased satiety even after consuming a smaller amount of food. The subjective quantification of hunger and satiety was done using a visual analog scale.
Discussion •Dulaglutide, a convenient weekly injectable with strong glycemic efficacy and potential for weight loss, emerges as a promising new GLP-1 RA for the treatment of obesity in patients with multiple comorbidities. •The 40 kg weight loss in our patient with dulaglutide is unprecedented and not previously documented. •This case supports the argument for dulaglutide’s FDA approval for weight loss, which could expand insurance coverage, reduce the financial burden, and provide an important new option for patients struggling to manage weight.5
Conclusion This case emphasizes dulaglutide’s efficacy in challenging real-word cases, offering a promising solution for weight management in patients with multifaceted health issues, such as morbid obesity, non-compliance with lifestyle changes, and weight gain associated with antipsychotic use