Interested in using tirzepatide for weight loss research?
Inside, we detail everything researchers must know about using tirzepatide peptide therapy to stimulate weight loss in their test subjects.
You will also find the latest advancements in tirzepatide and weight loss research, including an in-depth exploration of the peptide’s mechanism of action, its associated benefits, and its safety profile.
Moreover, we offer valuable insights into the proper dosing and administration of tirzepatide.
Continue reading to uncover essential knowledge about tirzepatide for weight loss and learn where to acquire 99% pure tirzepatide for your research endeavors.
Tirzepatide is a novel dual-agonist developed by Eli Lilly and Co. with the purpose of harnessing the potential of two naturally occurring incretin hormones: GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) [1].
The digestive tract releases these incretin hormones to stimulate insulin release in response to food intake [2]. Structurally, tirzepatide is composed of 39 amino acids, featuring a modified GIP sequence at the N-terminus and a C-terminus sequence derived from the GLP-1 agonist exenatide.
This unique configuration allows tirzepatide to have an affinity for both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, with a biased affinity towards GIP [3].
To enhance its binding to plasma albumin for extended half-life, tirzepatide is also conjugated to a C20 fatty di-acid moiety via a hydrophilic linker [4].
Tirzepatide has undergone extensive testing to evaluate its efficacy and safety. It has completed five phase-3 trials as part of the SURPASS global clinical development program launched by patent holder Eli Lilly [5, 6, 7, 8, 9].
These trials involved comparing different doses of tirzepatide (5mg, 10mg, and 15mg/weekly) against a placebo, the GLP-1 receptor agonist semaglutide, and two forms of basal insulin.
The results demonstrated that tirzepatide outperformed all comparators regarding glycemic control and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) reduction.
The peptide also caused significant weight reduction in type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients compared to placebo, basal insulin, and even semaglutide [5, 6, 7, 8, 9].
Based on these favorable trial outcomes, tirzepatide received approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2022 as an adjunct treatment of T2D [1].
Based on the significant weight reduction observed in T2D patients, the peptide is also currently under active investigation as a therapy for overweight and obesity [10]. The weight loss potential of tirzepatide is likely due to its potent appetite-suppressing effects.
Studies suggest that the peptide exerts these effects via complex mechanisms involving the activation of GLP-1 and GIP receptors in the hypothalamus, intestines, and white adipose tissue. As a result, the peptide may upregulate various satiety-promoting peptides and hormones while inhibiting orexigenic ones [11, 12, 13].
Benefits of Tirzepatide For Weight Loss
Tirzepatide is currently being studied as a potential treatment for obesity as part of the SURMOUNT development program led by Eli Lilly. The program consists of four global phase-3 trials focusing on individuals with a BMI (body mass index) of over 30 as well as those with a BMI above 27kg/m² and obesity-related comorbidities [10].
The results from the SURMOUNT-1 trial have already been published, with data from over 2500 overweight or obese nondiabetic volunteers. The results demonstrated that tirzepatide at all doses tested (5mg, 10mg, and 15mg/weekly) led to significant weight loss compared to placebo [14].
Over 72 weeks, the tirzepatide 5mg group achieved a mean weight loss of approximately 15%, while the 10mg and 15mg groups showed a weight reduction of 19.5% and 20.9%, respectively.
Notably, the weight loss achieved at the 10mg dose was nearly equivalent to that of the 15mg dose. Interestingly, the 10mg group also had a higher discontinuation rate due to side effects [14].
As mentioned, previous clinical data on tirzepatide’s impact on T2D also revealed significant weight loss benefits associated with the peptide.
For example, a comprehensive meta-analysis published in 2022 pooled data from nine trials involving a total of 7293 patients and highlighted the weight loss effectiveness of tirzepatide at various doses [15].
When compared to placebo, tirzepatide resulted in mean weight losses of approximately 11.66lbs (5.29kg) at 5mg, 16.16lbs (7.33kg) at 10mg, and 18.43lbs (8.36kg) at 15mg.
Further, tirzepatide exhibited superior weight loss compared to potent GLP-1 receptor agonists such as dulaglutide. The reductions on tirzepatide were 6.68lbs (3.03kg), 13.27lbs (6.02kg), and 18.32lbs (8.31kg) greater than the dulaglutide group, at 5mg, 10mg, and 15mg, respectively [15].
Researchers should also note that the weight loss effects of tirzepatide appear to be primarily accounted for by fat loss without any significant effect on lean body mass.
Another recent study evaluated the impact of 10mg/weekly and 15mg/weekly doses of tirzepatide on body weight and body fat mass and revealed significant reductions in these parameters.
Both the 10mg/weekly and 15mg/weekly groups experienced a decrease in body fat percentage by approximately 5%, along with increases in body water (3.7%), protein (2%), and minerals (0.4%) as measured by bioelectric impedance analysis [16].
Tirzepatide Side Effects
Tirzepatide has shown positive safety results in phase 3 clinical trials. Still, researchers need to be aware of potential side effects, particularly gastrointestinal complaints—the most commonly reported adverse events.
A meta-analysis of ten trials involving nearly 7000 participants found that the incidence of these complaints depends on the dosage. Gastrointestinal adverse events were reported in 39%, 46%, and 49% of participants receiving 5mg, 10mg, and 15mg doses, respectively [17].
The most frequently reported GI side effects were nausea and diarrhea, affecting around 24% and 21% of participants taking the highest weekly dose. Other common side effects affecting more than 5% of participants included belching, abdominal distension, abdominal discomfort, vomiting, constipation, dyspepsia, and abdominal pain.
Serious side effects such as cholelithiasis, cholecystitis, and pancreatitis were rare, occurring in less than 1% of subjects, with a lower incidence at higher doses. Hypersensitivity reactions were mostly mild to moderate, affecting 2-4% of participants [17].
In accordance with published guidelines, pregnant and lactating women should avoid tirzepatide. Caution is also advised due to the potential risk of medullary thyroid carcinoma, although this has only been observed in animal studies.
Due to these concerns, researchers should avoid administering tirzepatide to subjects with a history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) [18].
Tirzepatide Dosage For Weight Loss
The SURMOUNT-1 and SURPASS trials have demonstrated the weight loss potential of tirzepatide with proper dosing and provide valuable insights for weight loss research [5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14]
According to the evidence, it is recommended to initiate treatment at a low dosage of 2.5mg/weekly per test subject and gradually increase it by 2.5mg increments every four weeks to minimize potential side effects.
The research to date also suggests that a maximum weekly dose of 15mg is safe and effective for chronic weight management, while significant weight loss can also be achieved at a lower dose of 10mg per week.
Therefore, researchers may consider aiming for a conservative dose of 10mg/weekly and adjusting it based on individual response and tolerance.
How Long is a Tirzepatide Cycle?
The available scientific data suggests that tirzepatide should not be cycled, as it can be administered safely and effectively for extended periods in doses of 10mg/weekly to 15mg/weekly. More specifically, the majority of dosing protocols used in scientific research have a duration of 24-72 weeks [19].
Here is a sampling protocol that details the prevalent tirzepatide dosage for weight loss:
Tirzepatide Dose: Initiate at 2.5mg/weekly for the first four weeks of the study period, followed by an increase to 5mg/weekly in weeks 5-8, 7.5mg/weekly in weeks 9-12, and 10mg/weekly in weeks 13-16. Consider increasing further to 12.5mg/weekly in weeks 17-20 and 15mg in weeks 21 and beyond, depending on the individual response and tolerance.
Frequency: Once weekly as subcutaneous injections.
Study Duration: Studies using this protocol have lasted 24-72 weeks.
Notes: Do not exceed the maximum recommended tirzepatide dose of 15mg/weekly.
Where to Buy Tirzepatide Online?
When buying tirzepatide online for research, it is important to thoroughly evaluate different vendors and make a well-informed choice.
For example, factors such as pricing, reliability, customer reviews, peptide quality, accepted payment methods, and level of customer service should be taken into account. Considering these aspects will guarantee a satisfactory purchase experience.
For research-grade tirzepatide, we highly recommend Peptide Sciences because of its exceptional performance in terms of security, shipping, and customer service.
Peptide Sciences outperforms the competition in offering:
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Due to its high-purity peptides and affordable products, Peptide Sciences is an excellent pick for buying tirzepatide online as a reference material.
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How to Reconstitute Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide is typically sold as a lyophilized powder that needs to be reconstituted using a sterile solvent. While sterile water is an option, experts instead recommend the use of bacteriostatic water, which contains benzyl alcohol to prevent microorganism growth.
When refrigerated properly at 36 to 46 degrees F (2 to 8 degrees C), bacteriostatic water extends the shelf life of tirzepatide by four weeks, while sterile water limits it to 24 hours.
For the correct reconstitution of tirzepatide, researchers will also need alcohol swabs, a sterile syringe of at least 3cc, a sterile 1″ 20-gauge needle, and a disposable sharps container.
To simplify your procurement of research supplies, we recommend relying on a trusted online retailer that provides high-quality supply kits containing all the essential items needed for peptide handling:
This trusted firm provides comprehensive kits for every researcher. Their starter research kit consists of the following:
Bacteriostatic Water (30mL) – 3x
Insulin Syringes (0.5 cc/mL x 29g x ½) – 100x
Alcohol Prep Pads – 200x
Sterile Empty Glass Vial (10mL) – 1x
Large Needles + Syringes Combo (3cc x 21g x 1) – 10x
For researchers seeking more extensive provisions, the premium research kit offers the following:
Bacteriostatic Water (30mL) – 5x
Insulin Syringes (0.5 cc/mL x 29g x ½) – 200x
Alcohol Prep Pads – 200x
Sterile Empty Glass Vial (10mL) – 2x
Large Needles + Syringes Combo (3cc x 21g x 1) – 20x
To ensure safety during reconstitution, follow all standard precautions, such as applying alcohol wipes to clean the tops of both the peptide and sterile water vials.
Further, ensure the correct use of sterile needles and syringes to draw in the solvent and inject it into the lyophilized powder.
For example, when reconstituting the peptide solution, it is important to slowly inject the reconstituting liquid down the side of the vial to prevent foaming.
Do not shake or tap the vial after reconstitution, as this can damage the peptide and render it ineffective. Instead, allow the solution to dissolve naturally or use sonication.
Tapping the syringe before injection should be avoided as well. Do not freeze, heat, or expose the peptide to direct sunlight, and always refer to the specific product label for accurate dosage and storage instructions, as these may vary.
FAQ
How is Tirzepatide Delivered
Tirzepatide for research purposes is supplied in vials as a lyophilized powder. Researchers must reconstitute it with a suitable solvent like bacteriostatic or sterile water before administration.
Does Tirzepatide Cause Weight Gain?
No. Tirzepatide is actually investigated as a potential drug for weight loss, and the preliminary results suggest it is highly effective to this end.
Tirzepatide vs. Semaglutide
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for T2D as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection. In addition, the peptide has also been approved for weight loss in overweight/obese adolescents (12-17yo) or adults, and reducing cardiovascular risk in diabetics.
It appears to have similar benefits and side effects to tirzepatide, but its potency in glycemic control and weight reduction may be inferior.
For example, different weekly doses of tirzepatide (5mg, 10mg, and 15mg/weekly) were pitted against the recommended weekly dose of semaglutide for T2D (1mg) in one 40-week, phase 3 trial with 1879 diabetes patients.
The researchers reported the mean reductions in body weight were -16.8lbs (-7.6kg), -20.5lbs (-9.3kg), and -24.7lbs (-11.2kg) for tirzepatide at 5mg, 10mg, and 15mg, respectively, compared to -12.6lbs (-5.7kg) with semaglutide.
The risk of side effects was similar between the two peptides, with a slightly higher incidence of adverse reactions in the 15mg/weekly tirzepatide group [5].
Tirzepatide vs. Liraglutide
Liraglutide is another GLP-1 agonist approved for glycemic control in T2D. It has a shorter half-life and must be dosed as a once-daily subcutaneous injection.
The peptide is approved for reducing cardiovascular risk in T2D, as well as chronic weight management in adults and adolescents (12-17 years) with overweight or obesity.
Unfortunately, no studies have compared the effectiveness or safety of tirzepatide vs liraglutide. Yet, the available research suggests that liraglutide has similar side effects and contraindications as tirzepatide.
Tirzepatide also appears to be significantly more effective than liraglutide in terms of weight loss.
Is Tirzepatide a Steroid?
Tirzepatide is a peptide that lacks structural similarities with anabolic steroids and does not activate androgen receptors. Instead, it mimics the function of incretin hormones, namely GIP and GLP-1, which play a role in blood glucose and appetite regulation.
How to Take Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide should be reconstituted with bacteriostatic water and administered subcutaneously in doses of up to 15mg/weekly.
Tirzepatide and Weight Loss | Overall
Tirzepatide is a first-in-class dual GIP/GLP-1 mimetic that shows superior potency in terms of blood sugar control and weight loss when compared to mainstream GLP-1 agonist weight loss agents.
The peptide’s half-life of five days allows for weekly administration, and a prudent dosing regimen for weight loss is recommended to minimize any potential side effects.
It has received FDA approval for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D), while numerous ongoing studies investigate its impact on weight loss in individuals who are overweight or obese.
Researchers interested in incorporating tirzepatide into their weight loss research can legally obtain it as a reference material.
References
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Seino Y, Fukushima M, Yabe D. GIP and GLP-1, the two incretin hormones: Similarities and differences. J Diabetes Investig. 2010 Apr 22;1(1-2):8-23. doi: 10.1111/j.2040-1124.2010.00022.x. PMID: 24843404; PMCID: PMC4020673.
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Zhao, F., Zhou, Q., Cong, Z., Hang, K., Zou, X., Zhang, C., Chen, Y., Dai, A., Liang, A., Ming, Q., Wang, M., Chen, L. N., Xu, P., Chang, R., Feng, W., Xia, T., Zhang, Y., Wu, B., Yang, D., Zhao, L., … Wang, M. W. (2022). Structural insights into multiplexed pharmacological actions of tirzepatide and peptide 20 at the GIP, GLP-1 or glucagon receptors. Nature communications, 13(1), 1057. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-022-28683-0
Frías, J. P., Davies, M. J., Rosenstock, J., Pérez Manghi, F. C., Fernández Landó, L., Bergman, B. K., Liu, B., Cui, X., Brown, K., & SURPASS-2 Investigators (2021). Tirzepatide versus Semaglutide Once Weekly in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes. The New England journal of medicine, 385(6), 503–515. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2107519
Ludvik, B., Giorgino, F., Jódar, E., Frias, J. P., Fernández Landó, L., Brown, K., Bray, R., & Rodríguez, Á. (2021). Once-weekly tirzepatide versus once-daily insulin degludec as add-on to metformin with or without SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes (SURPASS-3): a randomised, open-label, parallel-group, phase 3 trial. Lancet (London, England), 398(10300), 583–598. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(21)01443-4
Del Prato, S., Kahn, S. E., Pavo, I., Weerakkody, G. J., Yang, Z., Doupis, J., Aizenberg, D., Wynne, A. G., Riesmeyer, J. S., Heine, R. J., Wiese, R. J., & SURPASS-4 Investigators (2021). Tirzepatide versus insulin glargine in type 2 diabetes and increased cardiovascular risk (SURPASS-4): a randomised, open-label, parallel-group, multicentre, phase 3 trial. Lancet (London, England), 398(10313), 1811–1824. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(21)02188-7
Dahl, D., Onishi, Y., Norwood, P., Huh, R., Bray, R., Patel, H., & Rodríguez, Á. (2022). Effect of Subcutaneous Tirzepatide vs Placebo Added to Titrated Insulin Glargine on Glycemic Control in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: The SURPASS-5 Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA, 327(6), 534–545. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2022.0078
Rosenstock, J., Wysham, C., Frías, J. P., Kaneko, S., Lee, C. J., Fernández Landó, L., Mao, H., Cui, X., Karanikas, C. A., & Thieu, V. T. (2021). Efficacy and safety of a novel dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist tirzepatide in patients with type 2 diabetes (SURPASS-1): a double-blind, randomised, phase 3 trial. Lancet (London, England), 398(10295), 143–155. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(21)01324-6
le Roux, C. W., Zhang, S., Aronne, L. J., Kushner, R. F., Chao, A. M., Machineni, S., Dunn, J., Chigutsa, F. B., Ahmad, N. N., & Bunck, M. C. (2023). Tirzepatide for the treatment of obesity: Rationale and design of the SURMOUNT clinical development program. Obesity (Silver Spring, Md.), 31(1), 96–110. https://doi.org/10.1002/oby.23612
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Jastreboff, A. M., Aronne, L. J., Ahmad, N. N., Wharton, S., Connery, L., Alves, B., Kiyosue, A., Zhang, S., Liu, B., Bunck, M. C., Stefanski, A., & SURMOUNT-1 Investigators (2022). Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. The New England journal of medicine, 387(3), 205–216. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038
Permana, H., Yanto, T. A., & Hariyanto, T. I. (2022). Efficacy and safety of tirzepatide as novel treatment for type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Diabetes & metabolic syndrome, 16(11), 102640. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dsx.2022.102640
Yabe, D., Kawamori, D., Seino, Y., Oura, T., & Takeuchi, M. (2023). Change in pharmacodynamic variables following once-weekly tirzepatide treatment versus dulaglutide in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes (SURPASS J-mono substudy). Diabetes, obesity & metabolism, 25(2), 398–406. https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.14882
Mishra, R., Raj, R., Elshimy, G., Zapata, I., Kannan, L., Majety, P., Edem, D., & Correa, R. (2023). Adverse Events Related to Tirzepatide. Journal of the Endocrine Society, 7(4), bvad016. https://doi.org/10.1210/jendso/bvad016
Farzam K, Patel P. Tirzepatide. [Updated 2023 May 26]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK585056/
Lin, F., Yu, B., Ling, B., Lv, G., Shang, H., Zhao, X., Jie, X., Chen, J., & Li, Y. (2023). Weight loss efficiency and safety of tirzepatide: A Systematic review. PloS one, 18(5), e0285197. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0285197
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