Tirzepatide is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist — it targets two gut hormones instead of one, which is thought to drive its especially strong appetite and metabolic effects.
Brands that contain tirzepatide
- Mounjaro — weekly injection for type 2 diabetes (up to 15 mg)
- Zepbound — weekly injection for weight management and obstructive sleep apnea in obesity (up to 15 mg)
Weight-loss results
In SURMOUNT-1, tirzepatide produced up to about 20–22% average body-weight loss at the highest dose. In the head-to-head SURMOUNT-5 trial (2025), it beat semaglutide (~20.2% vs ~13.7%). It currently leads the category on average weight loss.
Side effects
Similar to other GLP-1s: mostly GI symptoms (nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting) that ease over time, a boxed thyroid C-cell tumor warning, and cautions for pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and hypoglycemia with certain diabetes drugs.
Cost
Brand-name tirzepatide is costly without insurance; compounded tirzepatide is cheaper but not FDA-approved and more restricted in 2026. See brand vs compounded.
Interested in tirzepatide?
See whether it's an option for you — free eligibility check with a licensed provider.
Check Your Eligibility