What is Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide is a synthetic peptide composed of 39 amino acids. It is a dual agonist of the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors. This combined activity distinguishes it from other incretin analogues that act only on the GLP-1 receptor.
It was originally developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, but clinical studies have described a pronounced effect on body weight reduction. In research models, improvements in insulin sensitivity, blood sugar control, and beneficial effects on metabolic and cardiovascular parameters have been observed.
Observations for Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide is being studied for its possible effects on:
Blood sugar control – in research models, a decrease in HbA1c and glucose peaks has been observed.
Weight reduction – an effect on body fat loss and improvement in body composition has been described.
Metabolic health – improvement in lipid profile and reduction in hepatic steatosis have been observed.
Cardiovascular function – in research settings, a decrease in blood pressure and triglycerides has been described.
Energy homeostasis – an effect associated with increased fat oxidation and optimization of energy balance has been observed.
Scientific data
Tirzepatide has been studied in large clinical trials, where it has emerged as a potent incretin analog with a broad spectrum of benefits.
In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, the following has been reported:
- Reduction in HbA1c by up to 2%
- Weight loss 10-15%
- Improvement of lipid profile and blood pressure
In obese people without diabetes, the following have been observed:
- Weight loss up to 20% in 72 weeks
- Reduction of visceral fat
- Improvement of cardio-metabolic indicators
Dosage and administration
The scientific literature describes subcutaneous administration once a week.
Standard doses: 2.5 mg - initial dose with gradual titration to 5 mg weekly depending on tolerance and therapeutic effect.
At 5 mg + 2 ml bacteriostatic water:
Concentration = 2.5 mg/ml → 0.4 ml = 1 mg
Example values for 5 mg:
0.1 ml = 250μg
0.2 ml = 500μg
0.3 ml = 750μg
0.4 ml = 1 mg
0.5 ml = 1.25 mg
At 10 mg + 2 ml bacteriostatic water:
Concentration = 5 mg/ml → 0.2 ml = 1 mg
Example values for 10 mg:
0.1 ml = 500μg
0.2 ml = 1 mg
0.3 ml = 1.5 mg
0.4 ml = 2 mg
0.5 ml = 2.5 mg
Possible side effects
The most commonly reported reactions are related to the gastrointestinal tract.
Possible side effects are highly dose-dependent and include:
- nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation
- decreased appetite
- abdominal discomfort
Rarer but more serious risks include:
- pancreatitis
- gallstone disease with rapid weight loss
- hypoglycemia when combined with other antidiabetic agents
