Weight Loss & Metabolic
Tirzepatide
Also known as: Mounjaro, Zepbound; sold under the retail label GLP-T
An FDA-approved once-weekly injection that activates two gut-hormone receptors (GIP and GLP-1), used for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management.
Overview
Tirzepatide is a 39-amino-acid peptide that activates two receptors for gut hormones, GIP and GLP-1. These hormones influence appetite, blood sugar and how the stomach empties. It is given as a once-weekly injection.
What the research has looked at
Large randomized trials in adults with obesity found substantial average weight loss compared with placebo, and trials in type 2 diabetes showed improved blood sugar control. It has since been approved for type 2 diabetes, for chronic weight management and for obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. Research continues on heart, kidney and liver outcomes.
Safety and limits
- Common side effects are gastrointestinal, such as nausea, diarrhea and vomiting.
- The label carries a boxed warning about thyroid C-cell tumors seen in rodents, and it also warns about pancreatitis and gallbladder problems.
- Weight is often regained after stopping treatment.
- It is intended for use under medical supervision. Products from unregulated sources can differ in content and purity.
Regulatory context
Tirzepatide is an approved prescription medicine. Approval applies to the branded products, not to compounded or research-chemical copies.
Related pages
See also Retatrutide and Cagrilintide, which target related pathways.
References & further reading
- Jastreboff AM, et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity. N Engl J Med. 2022;387(3):205-216.
Educational reference only. Not medical advice. This page does not recommend or describe human use, dosing or sourcing.