A new study published in Hypertension, a journal of the American Heart Association, has found that the weight-loss drug tirzepatide significantly lowers systolic blood pressure in adults with obesity.
The medication was taken for 36 weeks by nearly 500 participants, showing notable results even in people without Type 2 diabetes.
Tirzepatide mimics two hormones: GLP-1 and GIP. These hormones regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and reduce appetite. This dual action leads to weight loss and may contribute to lower blood pressure. Unlike semaglutide, which targets only GLP-1, tirzepatide targets both.
The study included 494 participants from the SURMOUNT-1 trial who had valid 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure data.
Participants wore ambulatory BP monitors that recorded data every 30 minutes during the day and hourly at night. This approach provided more accurate and continuous readings compared to standard clinic visits.
Results showed 7.4 mm Hg drop in systolic BP with 5 mg tirzepatide, 10.6 mm Hg drop with 10 mg, and 8.0 mm Hg drop with 15 mg.
These effects were consistent across day and night readings and in people with and without pre-existing hypertension.
These findings suggest that tirzepatide may treat or prevent high blood pressure in people with obesity. However, researchers note that further studies are needed to assess long-term cardiovascular outcomes and what happens if tirzepatide is discontinued. The study did not account for dietary changes or salt intake.
The study was funded by Eli Lilly and Company, the maker of tirzepatide.
The study is published in Hypertension.
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