Tirzepatide
Dosage Protocol
Tirzepatide is a once-weekly dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist — the active compound in Mounjaro and Zepbound (pharmaceutical formulations not referenced here). Its addition of GIP agonism to GLP-1 activity produces complementary and potentially additive metabolic effects compared to GLP-1 monotherapy.
What is Tirzepatide?
GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 are both incretin hormones released after meals. Tirzepatide activates both receptors simultaneously with a unique unimolecular structure. The GIP component may enhance insulin secretion, promote fatty acid storage in adipose tissue (reducing ectopic fat deposition), and reduce GI side effects compared to GLP-1 monotherapy.
Research interest spans metabolic regulation, weight management mechanisms, potential hepatic effects (NAFLD/NASH), and cardiovascular risk reduction. It has demonstrated substantial weight reduction in Phase 3 trials. Dose titration over 4–5 months from 2.5 mg to target dose is the standard research approach.
Dosing Schedule
Parameters documented in published preclinical and clinical research.
| Phase | Dose | Frequency | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Start month 1 | 2.5 mg | Once weekly | 4 weeks | Starting dose. Do not exceed for first month. |
| Increase | 5 mg | Once weekly | Weeks 5–8 | Standard dose for many research protocols. |
| Increase | 7.5–10 mg | Once weekly | Weeks 9–16 | Advance monthly as tolerated. |
| High dose | 12.5–15 mg | Once weekly | Week 20+ | Maximum dose studied in trials. |