Tirzepatide

Also known as Mounjaro, Zepbound

A dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist producing the largest weight reduction of any currently approved incretin therapy.

Regulatory status: FDA approved (T2D, obesity, OSA)
Half-life: ~5 days
Route: Subcutaneous, once weekly
Evidence: Multiple randomized controlled trials in humans

Mechanism of action

Simultaneous GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonism improves insulin sensitivity and satiety signaling, with GIP activity thought to blunt nausea relative to GLP-1 alone.

Studied and reported uses

Obesity
Type 2 diabetes
Obstructive sleep apnea with obesity

Dosing information

Start2.5 mg weekly for 4 weeks

Titration+2.5 mg every 4 weeks

Maintenance5–15 mg weekly

Ranges are reported from literature and clinical labeling for reference only. They are not a dosing recommendation.

Side effects

Nausea
Vomiting
Decreased appetite
Fatigue

Research evidence

SURMOUNT-1

20.9% mean weight loss at 72 weeks on 15 mg.

SURPASS-2

Superior HbA1c reduction vs a weekly GLP-1 comparator.