Biologic
RCSB PDB 7FIM
Tirzepatide
Mounjaro / Zepbound
- Mechanism of action
- GLP-1 / GIP dual receptor agonist (peptide analog)
- In plain language
- A lab-made hormone that boosts insulin release and appetite control through two gut-hormone pathways at once.
- How it works
- Tirzepatide is a single synthetic peptide that acts as a dual agonist at both the GIP receptor and the GLP-1 receptor, the native targets of the two incretin hormones. Receptor activation is glucose-dependent, enhancing insulin secretion and suppressing glucagon release primarily when blood glucose is elevated. It also slows gastric emptying and acts on hypothalamic appetite centers, reducing food intake and body weight.
- Therapeutic applications
- As Mounjaro, tirzepatide is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults and pediatric patients 10 and older with type 2 diabetes mellitus. As Zepbound, the same molecule is indicated, together with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, to reduce excess body weight and maintain weight reduction long term in adults with obesity or with overweight and at least one weight-related comorbid condition, and to treat moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity.
- Class
- Peptide analog
- Therapeutic area
- Metabolic / Diabetes / Weight Management
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