What is Tirzepatide?
Unlike previous GLP-1 agonists, Tirzepatide produces a synergistic effect that improves
glycemic control , promotes significant and sustained weight loss
, and supports improved energy efficiency.
In obese subjects, treatment with Tirzepatide demonstrated body weight reductions of up to 22.5%
over 72 weeks, as reported in the landmark
SURMOUNT-1 study (NEJM 2022) .
Mechanism of action: synergy between GIP and GLP-1
Tirzepatide – Pre-filled Pen 30mg mimics the combined action of two natural gut hormones, GIP and GLP-1, known as incretins.
These hormones are secreted after meals and contribute to the regulation of glucose and fat metabolism.
By acting on both receptors, tirzepatide amplifies the signals that control insulin secretion,
reduces glucagon levels, and modulates the appetite centers of the brain.
GIP receptor
The GIP receptor stimulates the pancreas to release insulin only when blood sugar levels are high,
minimizing the risk of hypoglycemia. It also participates in fat metabolism, influencing
the use of fatty acids as an energy source. In combination with GLP-1, this pathway promotes
the reduction of visceral fat, the type most closely associated with cardiovascular risk and insulin resistance.
GLP-1 receptor
Activation of GLP-1 reduces hunger, slows gastric emptying, and stimulates
insulin secretion in response to glucose. At the same time, it inhibits the release of glucagon,
thus lowering blood sugar levels. The combined effect improves HbA1c,
stabilizes fasting blood sugar, and facilitates the maintenance of a prolonged calorie deficit.
This dual endocrine action underpins the success of Tirzepatide,
which combines the antidiabetic properties of GLP-1 with a broader metabolic impact mediated by GIP.
Clinical results also suggest a potential role in improving vascular health
by reducing blood pressure and some systemic inflammatory markers.
Main benefits observed
- Optimized glycemic control thanks to increased glucose-dependent insulin secretion.
- Sustained weight loss and reduction of visceral fat mass.
- Improved lipid profile with decreased LDL cholesterol and increased HDL.
- Reduction of appetite and prolonged feeling of satiety after meals.
- Positive effects on energy metabolism and cardiovascular function.
Comparison with other incretin agonists
Tirzepatide – Pre-filled Pen 30mg belongs to the same pharmacological class as semaglutide and the newer
retatrutide , but differs in the number of activated receptors and the intensity of the metabolic effect.
Comparative studies have shown that tirzepatide surpasses semaglutide in improving glycemic control
and promoting more marked weight loss, as evidenced in the
SURPASS-2 study (NEJM 2021) .
| Drug | Activated receptors | Main effects | Average weight loss (clinical data) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide | GLP-1 | Satiety, slower gastric emptying, glycemic control | ≈ 15% in 68 weeks |
| Tirzepatide | GLP-1 + GIP | Dual action on appetite, blood sugar and lipid metabolism | ≈ 22.5% in 72 weeks ( SURMOUNT-1 ) |
| Retatrutide | GLP-1 + GIP + glucagon | Increased energy expenditure and fat oxidation | ≈ 24% in 48 weeks (phase 2, preliminary data) |





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