Tirzepatide
Also known as Zepbound, Mounjaro
What it is
Tirzepatide is a dual agonist acting at both GIP and GLP-1 receptors. It is available as an FDA-approved branded product for chronic weight management in eligible patients.
How it is used
Given as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection with a stepwise titration. As with semaglutide, the escalation schedule exists to manage tolerability and is set by the prescriber.
What a provider evaluates first
- BMI and weight-related comorbidities
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN2 — a contraindication
- History of pancreatitis or significant gastrointestinal disease
- Concurrent diabetes medications and hypoglycaemia risk
- Baseline metabolic panel and HbA1c
Considerations and monitoring
- Gastrointestinal effects are common during dose escalation
- Carries the same boxed warning regarding thyroid C-cell tumours
- Supply and formulary availability vary; your provider will discuss current options
- Ongoing monitoring and periodic review are part of the therapy
Questions about tirzepatide
What is the difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide?
Semaglutide acts at the GLP-1 receptor. Tirzepatide is a dual agonist acting at both GIP and GLP-1 receptors. Both are given as weekly injections with a stepwise titration and both carry the same boxed warning regarding thyroid C-cell tumours. Which is appropriate depends on your history, tolerability, contraindications and availability — that is a clinical judgement, not a preference.
What happens if I stop GLP-1 therapy?
Appetite regulation generally returns toward its previous state once the medication is cleared, and weight regain is commonly observed. This is a recognised feature of the therapy rather than a failure, and it is why providers discuss the longer-term plan at the outset rather than treating it as a short course. Any decision to stop should be made with your provider.
Part of Weight Management.