| Compound | Tirzepatide |
|---|---|
| Category | Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Class | GLP-1 and Incretin Therapies |
| Evidence tier | Approved medicine |
| WADA status | Not individually listed; verify current status if subject to testing |
| Sold on this site | No — this is a reference database |
Overview
This entry covers Tirzepatide, a dual gip/glp-1 receptor agonist, graded "Approved medicine" in this catalog's evidence system. This compound exists as an approved medicine in at least one major jurisdiction. Approval applies to specific, labeled indications and to the regulated product — not to compounded or research-grade copies.
A first-in-class dual agonist of the GIP and GLP-1 receptors, approved as Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes and as Zepbound for chronic weight management. Its dual mechanism delivers some of the largest weight reductions reported in registrational obesity trials.
Mechanism of Action
Tirzepatide activates both the GLP-1 receptor and the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor. The GIP component is thought to contribute additional effects on adipose tissue insulin sensitivity and energy handling beyond GLP-1-driven appetite suppression, though the exact interaction of the two pathways in humans remains an active research question.
Research and Evidence
In the SURMOUNT-1 trial (n=2,539), the highest dose produced a mean weight reduction of about 20.9% over 72 weeks, versus 3.1% for placebo. SURPASS trials in type 2 diabetes showed robust HbA1c reductions.
Safety and Side Effects
As with GLP-1 agonists, gastrointestinal effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) predominate and are dose-related. Labeled warnings cover gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, and hypoglycemia when combined with insulin secretagogues; the same medullary thyroid carcinoma/MEN2 contraindication applies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the evidence tier of Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide is graded "Approved medicine" on this site. This compound exists as an approved medicine in at least one major jurisdiction. Approval applies to specific, labeled indications and to the regulated product — not to compounded or research-grade copies.
Is Tirzepatide an approved medicine?
Tirzepatide exists as an approved medicine in at least one major jurisdiction — but approval covers the regulated product and its labeled indications only. Compounded or research-grade versions of the same molecule are not the approved product.
Where can I read the primary studies for Tirzepatide?
The references section at the end of this entry links the key primary sources — regulator labels, trial registrations, and peer-reviewed papers. Our "How to Read a Peptide Study" guide explains how to evaluate them.
References
- Jastreboff AM, et al. Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity (SURMOUNT-1). N Engl J Med 2022. [source]
- ClinicalTrials.gov — registered tirzepatide studies. [source]
Evidence tier: Approved medicine · Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Sources cited below.