Mounjaro · Zepbound
Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist — superior weight loss to semaglutide.
FDA
Approved
WADA
Not Listed
HALF-LIFE
5 days
ROUTE
SubQ injection (weekly)
SCHEDULE
Once weekly
In Plain English
Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist — superior weight loss to semaglutide.
Status & Legality
NATTY?
No Test ExistsNo established test exists for this compound.
FDA
ApprovedFDA approved for human use.
WADA
Not ListedNot currently on WADA prohibited list.
COMPOUNDING
Rx AvailableAvailable at licensed pharmacies with prescription.
PRESCRIBED
By prescriptionPhysicians can prescribe this compound legally.
ROUTE
SubQ injection (weekly)Administration via subq injection (weekly).
Weight loss
Type 2 diabetes
Metabolic health
Tirzepatide targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, making it the first dual incretin receptor agonist approved for weight management. Clinical trials showed up to 22.5% body weight reduction — the highest of any approved therapeutic — with additional benefits in cardiovascular risk markers and sleep apnea.
Nausea
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Constipation
Decreased appetite
Abdominal pain
Injection site reactions
Jumping dose escalations — tirzepatide is more potent than semaglutide; the same rushed titration causes more severe GI effects
Not tracking protein intake — muscle loss at the weight loss rates tirzepatide achieves is significant without active intervention
Stopping abruptly without a maintenance plan — weight regain is rapid; plan the transition before reaching goal weight
Insulin and sulfonylureas — significant hypoglycemia risk; reduce doses when starting
Oral medications — slowed gastric emptying affects absorption timing and peak blood levels
Warfarin — monitor INR more closely during active weight loss and dose changes
Tirzepatide's 22.5% average weight loss in trials puts it in a different category than semaglutide. The dual GIP/GLP-1 mechanism makes it more potent but GI side effects are more intense at escalating doses. The creatine + high protein rule is more critical here, not less — the faster the weight loss, the more muscle you risk losing.
Stats
Sources & Studies
Jastreboff AM. et al., N Engl J Med, 2022