Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist approved by the FDA for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro) and obesity (Zepbound). It simultaneously activates glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors, producing additive effects on insulin secretion, glucagon suppression, and appetite regulation. Phase 3 SURMOUNT trials reported mean body weight reductions of 15-22% over 72 weeks.
Appetite suppression often within the first days; weight loss accrues over weeks to months alongside titration.
Refrigerate at 2 to 8 C and protect from light; do not freeze. Per the product label an in-use pen may be kept at controlled room temperature for a limited period. Compounded vials should be refrigerated and used within the pharmacy's stated beyond-use date.
Forms & Availability
Branded and compounded regulatory status
Branded (FDA-approved)
Available by prescription as Mounjaro (type 2 diabetes) and Zepbound (chronic weight management) from Eli Lilly.
Compounded (currently restricted)
Compounded tirzepatide from 503A/503B pharmacies was widely available 2023 through Feb 18, 2025. FDA ended enforcement discretion on that date following shortage resolution; only brand-name product is now legally available in the US.
Clinical Evidence
What the literature says
Scientific Overview
A once-weekly injectable dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist.
Pharmacokinetics
- Half-life (t½)
- 5.0 d
- Approximate plasma half-life
- Routes
- Subcutaneous
t½ 5.0 d · ~3% remaining at 25 d
Citations (8)
- Tirzepatide vs. semaglutide for obesity, glycemic control, and cardiovascular outcomes: a narrative review of clinical trialsPubMed 2026
- Efficacy and safety of a novel dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist tirzepatide in patients with type 2 diabetes (SURPASS-1): a double-blind, randomised, phase 3 trialPubMed
- Tirzepatide, a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor co-agonist for the treatment of type 2 diabetes with unmatched effectiveness regrading glycaemic control and body weight reductionPubMed
- Tirzepatide: A novel, first-in-class, dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonistPubMed
- The Role of Tirzepatide, Dual GIP and GLP-1 Receptor Agonist, in the Management of Type 2 Diabetes: The SURPASS Clinical TrialsPubMed
- Tirzepatide versus Semaglutide Once Weekly in Patients with Type 2 DiabetesPubMed
- Compounded Semaglutide and Tirzepatide Products Use During the Drug ShortagePubMed
- Frequently asked questions to the 2023 obesity medicine association position statement on compounded peptides: A call for actionReview
Last reviewed: 2026-05-09
Research Guide
How users approach this compound
The following reflects patterns observed in research literature and community protocols. This is not medical advice and does not constitute a clinical recommendation.
Typical Dose Range Observed
Research Protocols
Common DosagesMetabolic Titration
“Start at 2.5mg for 4 weeks; titrate up as needed”
Dosages listed are common research protocols found in peer-reviewed literature and clinical trials. Individual results and requirements may vary significantly in a research context.
Reported Uses
- FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes management (Mounjaro) and chronic weight management (Zepbound)
- Studied for cardiovascular risk reduction in obese individuals
- Investigated for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in clinical trials
Key Research Benefits
- Weight loss
- Appetite suppression
- Blood sugar control
Potential Side Effects
Considerations and Cautions
- Contraindicated with personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN2
- Contraindicated with prior serious hypersensitivity to tirzepatide
- Not recommended during pregnancy
Labs to monitor
Educational context only, not a testing mandate. Any bloodwork decisions belong with your clinician.
- HbA1c: Primary glycemic efficacy marker for incretin therapy.
- Fasting glucose: Tracks glycemic response and hypoglycemia risk when combined with other agents.
- Lipid panel / ApoB: Incretin therapy commonly improves atherogenic lipids alongside weight loss.
Dose Calculator
Peptide Reconstitution Calculator
Total amount of peptide in the vial.
Volume of water used to mix.
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or 0.10 mL on a U-100 syringe
Quick Explainer
Tirzepatide by goal
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Not medical advice
Information on DoseVault is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider.