Available as once-a-week injectable form or daily rapid dissolved tablets.
Tirzepatide is the first dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist which means it works on the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors and the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors. According to a press release published by Eli Lilly, “GIP is a hormone that may complement the effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists. In preclinical models, GIP has been shown to decrease food intake and increase energy expenditure therefore resulting in weight reductions, and when combined with GLP-1 receptor agonist, may result in greater effects on markers of metabolic dysregulation such as body weight, glucose and lipids.”
Currently, it is indicated for use in patients with type 2 diabetes, but it shows promise as a weight-loss medication as well.
Clinical trials found doses of tirzepatide effective in reducing hemaglobin A1C levels and assisting with weight loss. Early data suggests that it may even reduce the likelihood of cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke.