Tirzepatide

Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist · Also known as Mounjaro, Zepbound

What is tirzepatide?

A dual-action peptide targeting both GIP and GLP-1 receptors. Shows even greater weight loss potential than semaglutide in head-to-head trials.

Tirzepatide represents the next generation of metabolic peptides by acting on two incretin receptors simultaneously. Clinical trials have demonstrated average weight reductions of up to 22.5% of body weight, making it the most effective weight loss peptide currently available.

Key takeaway: Tirzepatide's dual mechanism of action appears to produce greater weight loss than GLP-1-only drugs like semaglutide, with up to 22.5% body weight reduction in clinical trials.

Benefits & evidence

Weight loss High confidence
Blood sugar control High confidence
Insulin sensitivity High confidence
Cardiovascular health Moderate confidence
Liver fat reduction Preliminary confidence

How it works

Unlike semaglutide which only targets GLP-1 receptors, tirzepatide activates both GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 receptors. This dual action enhances insulin sensitivity, reduces appetite through complementary pathways, and may also improve fat metabolism more effectively than targeting either receptor alone.

Dosing information

Typical dosing protocol
Starting dose

2.5 mg/week

Weeks 1-4
Maintenance dose

10-15 mg/week

After titration period

Dose is titrated up every 4 weeks. Maximum approved dose is 15 mg weekly. Follow your prescriber's instructions.

Side effects

Most side effects tend to improve as your body adjusts.

Nausea Common
Diarrhea Common
Decreased appetite Common
Vomiting Moderate
Pancreatitis Rare

Research (10 studies)

Early Adoption and Prescribing Patterns of Resmetirom: A Multi-Institutional National Analysis. Liver international : official journal of the International Association for the Study of the Liver · 2026