Tirzepatide is a synthetic peptide engineered to act as a dual agonist of the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors. This novel incretin mimetic is under investigation for its role in modulating glucose metabolism and energy balance, making it a focal point in current metabolic disease research. Structurally based on a 39-amino-acid sequence, tirzepatide incorporates both non-natural amino acids and fatty acid side chains to enhance stability and pharmacokinetic profile. This allows for once-weekly administration in clinical contexts. Its unique dual-receptor activity distinguishes it from mono-agonists such as semaglutide or liraglutide.

Semaglutide is a derivative of the naturally occurring GLP-1, a peptide known to lower blood sugar levels and enhance insulin secretion. Research shows that Semaglutide may also improve heart, liver, and lung function while helping to slow or prevent the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. Semaglutide has been shown to significantly decrease appetite by delaying gastric emptying and reducing intestinal motility. Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Analog Shown to Stimulate Insulin and Suppress Glucagon Secretion in a Glucose-Dependent Manner.