Weight Management
Tirzepatide
Dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist producing the strongest weight loss seen in an approved incretin therapy.
- Half-life
- ~5 days
- Route
- Subcutaneous, once weekly
Overview
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) is a synthetic 39-amino-acid peptide that engages both the GIP and GLP-1 receptors, approved by the FDA in 2022 for diabetes and 2023 for chronic weight management.
Mechanism of action
Balanced agonism of GIP and GLP-1 receptors amplifies glucose-dependent insulin release, improves insulin sensitivity, delays gastric emptying and reduces appetite. GIP is thought to contribute to nausea tolerance and adipose tissue effects.
Evidence base
SURMOUNT-1 achieved 20.9% mean weight reduction at 72 weeks on 15 mg weekly. SURPASS diabetes programme showed HbA1c reductions of 1.9–2.6% and superiority to semaglutide 1 mg in head-to-head comparison.
Typical dosing
Start 2.5 mg weekly, escalate by 2.5 mg every 4 weeks to a maximum of 15 mg. Some patients maintain response at 5–10 mg. Open the dose calculator →
Safety & contraindications
Adverse-event profile parallels semaglutide with slightly higher GI symptom incidence at top doses. Same MTC/MEN 2 contraindication; monitor for pancreatitis and gallbladder disease.
Related peptides
Educational reference only. Nothing on this page is medical advice, a prescription, or an offer to sell. Discuss any peptide therapy with a qualified clinician who can evaluate your history and monitoring needs.