📑 Contents
What is Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide (marketed as Mounjaro for diabetes and Zepbound for weight loss) is a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist developed by Eli Lilly.
🧬 Dual Mechanism of Action
Unlike Semaglutide, which only activates GLP-1, Tirzepatide activates two receptors:
- GLP-1 — Glucagon-like peptide-1 (same as Semaglutide)
- GIP — Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide
This dual action potentially provides better results than GLP-1 activation alone.
How does Tirzepatide work?
GLP-1 Effects:
- Reduces appetite by acting on the brain
- Slows gastric emptying
- Increases insulin release when blood sugar is high
- Decreases glucagon production
✨ GIP Effects (unique to Tirzepatide)
- Enhances insulin sensitivity
- May contribute to increased energy expenditure
- Potentially reduced side effects compared to GLP-1 alone
- Improved adipose tissue function
Clinical Results
The SURMOUNT studies showed impressive results:
| Dosage | Weight Loss (72 weeks) | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| 5 mg | ~15% | Lowest maintenance dose |
| 10 mg | ~20% | Common effective dose |
| 15 mg | ~22% | Maximum dose |
📊 SURPASS Studies (Diabetes)
- Better blood sugar control than Semaglutide
- More patients achieved normal HbA1c
Tirzepatide Dosage
⚠️ Important
Always follow the titration schedule to minimize side effects. Never start at full dose!
💡 Tips
Not everyone needs to reach the maximum dose. Many achieve excellent results at 10 mg.
Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide
| Feature | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide |
|---|---|---|
| Receptors | GLP-1 + GIP | Only GLP-1 |
| Weight Loss | ~20-22% | ~15-17% |
| Approved Since | 2022-2023 | 2017-2021 |
| Side Effects | Slightly lower frequency | Well-documented |
| Safety Data | Shorter history | Longer history |
Side Effects of Tirzepatide
The side effect profile is similar to Semaglutide but with a slightly lower frequency:
| Side Effect | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Nausea | ~35% |
| Diarrhea | ~25% |
| Constipation | ~20% |
| Vomiting | ~15% |
Less Common:
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
✓ Good News
Most side effects subside after the initial weeks of titration.
Who is Tirzepatide Suitable For?
✓ Good Candidates
- Individuals who have not achieved sufficient results with Semaglutide
- Type 2 diabetics looking to lose weight
- Those seeking a stronger weight loss effect
- Individuals who tolerate GLP-1 treatment well
⚠️ Caution with:
- History of pancreatitis
- Severely impaired kidney function
- Family history of medullary thyroid cancer
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding
Storage of Tirzepatide
| Condition | Temperature | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Unopened | 2-8°C (refrigerator) | As per packaging |
| Reconstituted | 2-8°C (refrigerator) | Max 28 days |
| Room Temperature | Below 25°C | Max 21 days |
🚫 Never Freeze!
Freezing permanently destroys the peptide structure.
Mixing Tirzepatide
The same principles as for Semaglutide:
- Let the peptide reach room temperature — Avoid condensation
- Clean the rubber stopper — With an alcohol wipe
- Add BAC water along the glass wall — Never inject directly onto the powder
- Gently swirl — Never shake!
- Store in the refrigerator — Label with date
📖 Read detailed mixing guide →
Frequently Asked Questions about Tirzepatide
Is Tirzepatide better than Semaglutide?
Tirzepatide shows better weight loss results in studies. However, Semaglutide has longer safety data.
Can I switch from Semaglutide to Tirzepatide?
Yes, you start at the initial dose of Tirzepatide (2.5 mg) and titrate according to the schedule.
How long do you need to take Tirzepatide?
As with all GLP-1-based treatments, long-term use is often necessary to maintain weight loss.
Summary
✓ Tirzepatide in Brief
Tirzepatide represents a significant advancement in the treatment of overweight and obesity. With its dual mechanism of action, it provides:
- Better weight loss results — than Semaglutide
- Potentially lower frequency of side effects
- Improved blood sugar control
For those seeking maximum efficacy among approved treatments, Tirzepatide is often the best choice.
⚠️ Research Disclaimer
All peptides we sell are intended for research purposes only. Always consult a physician before starting any treatment.
