WHAT IS TIRZEPATIDE?
Tirzepatide is a once-weekly injectable prescription medication that is used along with diet and exercise for both type 2 diabetes and weight management.
HOW DOES TIRZEPATIDE WORK?
Tirzepatide's dual receptor activation stimulates multiple physiological pathways to induce weight loss. By activating GLP-1 receptors, it promotes satiety, reduces food intake, and slows gastric emptying. Additionally, GIP receptor activation enhances insulin secretion and beta-cell function, leading to improved glucose regulation and reduced appetite. The combined effects of these actions result in notable weight reductions, making Tirzepatide a valuable option for weight management.
WHAT ARE THE POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS OF TIRZEPATIDE?
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue or weakness
- Decrease in oral contraceptive effectiveness
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially when used in combination with other diabetes medications
- Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
- Gallbladder problems, including gallstones
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) - a rare but serious side effect
- Kidney problems
- Allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, or swelling
WHO IS NOT A CANDIDATE FOR TIRZEPATIDE?
- < 12 years old. All children 12-17 will need a prescription from their pediatrician.
- Pregnant/breastfeeding/trying to become pregnant
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus
- Hypersensitivity to tirzepatide
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
- History of multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome
- History of pancreatitis
- End stage renal disease (on dialysis)
- BMI < 25
- Type 2 diabetic patients that are on insulin or a sulfonylurea
- Patients with diabetic retinopathy
