Effect of Tirzepatide in Older Adults

This study is looking at how a medication called tirzepatide (brand names include Zepbound and Mounjaro) affects muscle strength, heart health, and metabolism in older adults with obesity. As people age, especially with obesity, they can lose strength and mobility. The goal of this study is to see whether this medication can help improve physical function and overall heart health, which may lead to better treatment options in the future.

This study evaluates how the treatment affects muscle mass, strength, and walking ability, as well as heart health and overall physical performance. It also examines changes in blood sugar, cholesterol, liver and kidney function, inflammation, aging-related markers, and how the body builds and maintains muscle over time.

• Men and women age ≥ 50 years
• Hispanic ethnicity
• BMI at or above 30 kg/m2
• Hemoglobin A1c <6.5%

• Active diagnosis of diabetes, defined by active use of glucose lowering medications or
• Hemoglobin A1c ≥ 6.5%
• BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2
• Moderate to severe gastro-esophageal reflux disease
• Severe kidney or liver disease
• You have been previous diagnosed with gastroparesis or diabetic retinopathy
• Already taking a medication in the GLP1-receptor agonist class

~ 6 months

• Screening Visit (blood draw)
• Biodex
• Hand grip strength
• Physical function (Walk test)
• DXA
• Oral Glucose tolerance test
• Muscle mass testing
• Muscle biopsy
• Urine sample
• Echocardiogram
• Flow Mediated Dilation
• Distribution of Tirzepatide Injections

You may earn up to $600 for completing all study-related visits.

UT Health San Antonio
Sam and Ann Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies
4939 Charles Katz Dr.
San Antonio, TX 78229

• Thank you for your interest in one of our studies! Please complete this form and we will contact you to let you know more about this study.

Principal Investigator:
Shreya Rao, MD, MPH