Tirzepatide
Also known as: Mounjaro, Zepbound
Molecular Identifiers
Overview
Dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist, composed of 39 amino acids with a molecular weight of approximately 4,813.45 Da. Developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity, promoting glycemic control and significant weight loss.
Approved by the FDA as Mounjaro (2022) for type 2 diabetes and as Zepbound (2023) for chronic weight management in adults. Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist with weight loss of up to 22% in clinical trials.
Modified peptide — 39 amino acids with Aib substitution and conjugated C20 diacid fatty acid
Half-life
~5 days
Administration Route
Subcutaneous
Category
Metabolic & Fat Loss
Mechanism of Action
- GLP-1 receptor agonism (increased glucose-dependent insulin secretion and satiety)
- GIP receptor agonism (potentiation of the incretin effect and lipid metabolism)
- Delayed gastric emptying
- Reduced caloric intake via hypothalamic signaling
- Improved insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues
Dosage Protocol
Data compiled from the literature. This does not constitute medical advice.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose | 2.5-15 mg per week (subcutaneous) |
| Frequency | Once per week |
| Timing | Same day and time each week, regardless of meals |
| Duration | 12+ weeks (continuous use with gradual escalation) |
Reported Side Effects
Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Decreased appetite
Presentations & Preparation
Vials of Tirzepatide found in the research market:
Reconstitution
- Diluent: Bacteriostatic water
- Volume: 1 ml per vial
- Inject the diluent slowly against the vial wall
- Gently swirl until completely dissolved — never shake
- Dose escalation every 4 weeks (2.5 → 5 → 7.5 → 10 → 12.5 → 15 mg)
Storage
- Lyophilized: Refrigerated 2-8°C
- Reconstituted: Refrigerated 2-8°C (up to 30 days)
- Protect from direct light
- Do not freeze after reconstitution
- Pre-filled pens must be refrigerated
Scientific Studies
Published studies on Tirzepatide.
Tirzepatide versus Semaglutide Once Weekly in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Frias JP, Davies MJ, Rosenstock J, Perez Manghi FC, Fernandez Lando L, Bergman BK, et al.
Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity
Jastreboff AM, Aronne LJ, Ahmad NN, Wharton S, Connery L, Alves B, et al.
Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity in people with type 2 diabetes (SURMOUNT-2)
Garvey WT, Frias JP, Jastreboff AM, le Roux CW, Sattar N, Aizenberg D, et al.
Related Peptides
5-Amino-1MQ
50 mg per capsule · 1-2 times daily
Adipotide
0.5-1 mg/kg per injection (subcutaneous) · Once daily
AICAR
50-150 mg per injection · 2-3 times per week
AOD 9604
300-600 mcg per injection · Once daily
Cagrilintide
1.2-4.5 mg per week (subcutaneous) · Once weekly
Dulaglutide
0.75-4.5 mg per week (subcutaneous) · Once weekly