Tirzepatide
Mechanism
This one doesn't stop at one receptor. It's a dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist, both pathways firing together, for a metabolic push that goes past what GLP-1 gets you alone.
Key Benefit
Up to 22.5% body weight reduction in SURMOUNT trials. The largest effect seen in any anti-obesity medication to date.
Evidence Base
FDA-approved twice over: Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes in 2022, Zepbound for weight in 2023. The phase III program behind it is not a small one.
Route & Rationale
Subcutaneous injection (weekly). Peptide degraded by GI proteases. Weekly dosing provides sustained dual-receptor activation.
Interactions
Same glucose-lowering interaction profile as semaglutide. GI side effects (nausea) common during titration.
Regulatory Status
FDA-approved. The compounded version had a good run, but that ended mid-2025, same as semaglutide's.
Hard Contraindications
MTC/MEN2 thyroid cancer, Pregnancy/planning
Cautions
Pancreatitis, Diabetes
For information and research purposes only. This is not medical advice and not a recommendation to use this substance. Discuss anything here with your healthcare provider.
