Generic name
tirzepatide
tirzepatide
Manufacturer
Eli Lilly
Eli Lilly
Drug class
Dual GIP / GLP-1 receptor agonist
Dual GIP / GLP-1 receptor agonist
FDA approved
May 2022
November 2023
Indication
Type 2 diabetes (adults)
Chronic weight management (adults)
Dose schedule
Subcutaneous injection · Once weekly
Subcutaneous injection · Once weekly
Available doses
2.5 mg · 5 mg · 7.5 mg · 10 mg · 12.5 mg · 15 mg
2.5 mg · 5 mg · 7.5 mg · 10 mg · 12.5 mg · 15 mg
Mechanism
Tirzepatide is a first-in-class single molecule that activates both the GIP and GLP-1 receptors. The dual incretin action augments glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite — producing larger average HbA1c and weight reductions than GLP-1 agonism alone in head-to-head trials.
Tirzepatide is a first-in-class single molecule that activates both the GIP and GLP-1 receptors. The dual incretin action slows gastric emptying and reduces appetite via central nervous system pathways while improving glucose handling — producing larger average weight loss than single GLP-1 agonists in its obesity trials.
Common side effects
Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation — mostly mild, ease after titration
Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation — mostly mild, ease after titration
Cost range
$25 – $1,200 / month depending on coverage
$25 – $1,300 / month depending on coverage
This comparison is for education only and is not medical advice. Mounjaro and Zepbound are prescription medicines with distinct FDA-approved indications. Whether either is appropriate for you — and at what dose — is a decision for a licensed clinician.