01 / OVERVIEW
What it is
Tirzepatide is a single molecule that activates both the GIP and GLP-1 receptors — two hormones your body releases after meals. It is the first medication of its kind approved for weight management.
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Tirzepatide
A once-weekly dual GIP/GLP-1 medication for weight management and blood-sugar control.
- STATUS
- FDA-approved (brand-name) for type 2 diabetes, chronic weight management, and obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. Compounded versions are not FDA-approved.
- FORMS
- Weekly injection
- ACCESS
- Prescription only · Telehealth in all 50 states
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Acts on two gut-hormone pathways: GIP and GLP-1
- Produced some of the largest average weight reductions seen in medication trials
- Prescribed alongside nutrition and activity support
02 / MECHANISM
How it works
Like GLP-1 medications, tirzepatide reduces appetite, slows stomach emptying, and improves insulin response. Adding GIP activity appears to further improve how the body handles blood sugar and fat, which may contribute to its effect on weight.
03 / EVIDENCE
What the research shows
In the SURMOUNT-1 trial, adults with obesity or overweight (without diabetes) lost an average of about 15% to 21% of their body weight over 72 weeks depending on dose, compared with about 3% on placebo. As with other medications in this class, weight tends to return after stopping.
04 / FIT
Who it may help
- Adults with obesity, or overweight with a weight-related condition
- People who have not reached their goals with lifestyle changes alone
- Patients who may not have responded well to a GLP-1-only medication
05 / CAUTION
Who should avoid it
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN2
- Pregnancy, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding
- History of pancreatitis (discuss with your provider)
- Type 1 diabetes
06 / SAFETY
Possible side effects
- Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, or indigestion — usually mild to moderate and most common as doses increase
- Decreased appetite and injection-site reactions
- Less common but serious: pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, low blood sugar (with some diabetes medicines), kidney problems from dehydration
- May reduce the effectiveness of oral birth control for a period after starting or dose changes — ask your provider
This is not a complete list. Your provider will review risks, benefits, and alternatives with you before starting any treatment.
QUESTIONS
Good to know.
Is tirzepatide better than semaglutide? +
In trials, average weight loss was higher with tirzepatide, but the right choice depends on your health history, how you tolerate the medication, and cost. Your provider will help you compare.
Can I switch from semaglutide? +
Often, yes. Your provider will review your current response and side effects before making a change.
Will I need follow-up visits? +
Yes. Regular check-ins let your provider adjust the plan, manage side effects, and track progress safely.
How do I get started? +
Complete a short Get Started form. A licensed provider in your state will review your goals and history by telehealth, order labs if needed, and decide whether Tirzepatide or another option is appropriate.
KEEP LEARNING
Related therapies.
WEIGHT MANAGEMENTHEALTHY AGING & ENERGYHEALTHY AGING & ENERGY
Semaglutide
A once-weekly GLP-1 medication that helps regulate appetite and blood sugar, used as part of a medical weight-management plan.
NAD+
A coenzyme found in every cell that supports energy production and cellular repair, and declines with age.
Glutathione
Your body's main antioxidant — a small three–amino acid peptide that helps protect cells from oxidative stress.
EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION
This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Tirzepatide requires a prescription and is provided only after evaluation by a licensed provider when appropriate. When a compounded formulation is prescribed, it is prepared by a licensed U.S. pharmacy for you specifically. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved and have not been reviewed by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or quality.