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Dual GLP-1/GIP agonist

Tirzepatide Complete Guide 2026

Tirzepatide is the first dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist, used for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro) and chronic weight management (Zepbound). Mean weight loss in SURMOUNT-1 was 22.5% at 72 weeks — approximately 47% more than semaglutide alone in head-to-head trials. Compounded tirzepatide is available via select telehealth providers.

Dr. Parmis - Medical Researcher
Researched By
Dr. Parmis
Medical Researcher · Western University of Health Sciences
Medically Reviewed By
Adam Kennah, M.D.
Board-Certified Physician
Last clinically reviewed: April 28, 2026 · This page is informational and does not constitute medical advice.

About Tirzepatide

Class: Dual GLP-1/GIP agonist
Brand/Manufacturer: Generic
Dosing: Weekly subcutaneous
Mean weight loss: 22.5%
Pivotal trial: SURMOUNT-1, NEJM 2022

Tirzepatide is the first dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist, used for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro) and chronic weight management (Zepbound). Mean weight loss in SURMOUNT-1 was 22.5% at 72 weeks — approximately 47% more than semaglutide alone in head-to-head trials. Compounded tirzepatide is available via select telehealth providers.

Mechanism of action

Tirzepatide acts on the GLP-1 receptor (and GIP receptor in the case of tirzepatide), producing four primary effects: central appetite suppression, delayed gastric emptying, glucose-dependent insulin release, and glucagon suppression. The combined effect on body weight averaged across pivotal trials is 22.5% body weight reduction at the trial endpoint.

Clinical evidence

The pivotal trial supporting Tirzepatide's weight management indication is SURMOUNT-1, NEJM 2022. Detailed data including primary and secondary endpoints, population characteristics, and adverse event frequencies is summarized on our clinical research page.

How to access Tirzepatide via telehealth

Tirzepatide is available through several U.S. telehealth providers. Compounded versions (where applicable) are dispensed by 503A licensed compounding pharmacies and 503B FDA-registered outsourcing facilities. NexLife is our editorial #1 pick for Tirzepatide access — see the side panel for details.

Compounded medications: Where Tirzepatide is dispensed in compounded form, the compounded version is not FDA-approved and is not the same as the brand-name product.

FAQ

Is Tirzepatide FDA-approved?

The brand-name versions of Tirzepatide are FDA-approved for the indications listed above. Compounded versions are not FDA-approved.

How much does Tirzepatide cost?

Brand-name Tirzepatide typically costs hundreds to over a thousand dollars per month at retail. Compounded equivalents (where available) cost significantly less. See our cost guide for verified May 2026 pricing.