Tirzepatide
Also known as: Tirzepatide, Mounjaro, Zepbound
A dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro) and weight management (Zepbound), with weight-loss results that often exceed GLP-1-only agents.
Last updated
Mechanism of Action
Tirzepatide is a single peptide that activates both the GIP and GLP-1 incretin receptors. GLP-1 agonism enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite, while GIP agonism is thought to further improve insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism. This dual incretin action produces robust glycemic and weight effects, with fatty-acid acylation enabling once-weekly dosing.
- Half-life
- Approximately 5 days (once-weekly dosing)
- Administration Routes
- subcutaneous
- Research Status
- Clinical
Reported Benefits
- Substantial weight loss, often exceeding GLP-1-only agents
- Strong improvement in glycemic control
- Dual incretin action (GIP + GLP-1)
- Improves lipid and metabolic markers
- Once-weekly subcutaneous dosing
Potential Side Effects
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (especially during titration)
- Decreased appetite and constipation
- Risk of pancreatitis (uncommon)
- Gallbladder issues with rapid weight loss
- Potential lean-mass loss without resistance training
Common Dosing
Clinical regimens titrate from 2.5 mg weekly up to 15 mg weekly over several months to manage GI tolerability. Stated as labeled clinical dosing.
The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.
Contraindications
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- Pregnancy
- History of pancreatitis (caution)
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