Tirzepatide is a synthetic peptide that functions as a dual agonist of the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor and the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor. It was initially approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the brand name Mounjaro for the treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, as an adjunct to diet and exercise. More recently, it received FDA approval under the brand name Zepbound for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition. Tirzepatide is administered via subcutaneous injection.
The GIP and GLP-1 receptors are both integral to the body's regulation of blood glucose. GIP is a hormone secreted by enteroendocrine K cells in the duodenum and jejunum in response to nutrient intake, primarily fats and carbohydrates. It stimulates insulin secretion and may have effects on fat deposition. GLP-1 is a hormone secreted by L cells in the ileum and colon, also in response to food intake. It stimulates insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, suppresses glucagon secretion, slows gastric emptying, and promotes satiety through central nervous system effects. By activating both these receptors, tirzepatide aims to provide a more comprehensive approach to metabolic control compared to GLP-1 receptor agonists alone, addressing both glycemic control and body weight.
Deep dive
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Known interactions
Category rule: glp1 × supplement
Note
GLP-1 medications slow stomach emptying, changing how/when oral supplements absorb; rapid weight loss raises the importance of protein and micronutrients.
Time oral supplements when nausea is lowest; prioritize protein and micronutrients; discuss with your provider.
Compound-pair rule
Caution
Combining a GLP-1 with rapid insulin increases hypoglycemia risk.
Reduce mealtime insulin at GLP-1 initiation; monitor glucose closely.
Compound-pair rule
Caution
GLP-1 plus basal insulin increases hypoglycemia risk.
Reduce basal insulin dose 10–20% at GLP-1 initiation and titrate.
Frequently asked
Sources referenced
["U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)","National Institutes of Health (NIH)","Mayo Clinic","DrugBank","PubChem","New England Journal of Medicine","ClinicalTrials.gov (Registry for clinical studies)","European Medicines Agency (EMA)"]
Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.
Related compounds
Others in the glp1 category or studied for the same goals.
