Paper Key : IRJ************397
Author: Mahima Khandelwal,Dr. Kamal Singh Rathore
Date Published: 01 Mar 2025
Abstract
Tirzepatide is a novel dual incretin receptor agonist that targets both the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors. Approved by the FDA in May 2022 under the brand name Mounjaro, it represents a significant advancement in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Tirzepatide improves glycemic control, enhances insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon release, and contributes to weight loss by modulating appetite and energy balance.The increasing prevalence of T2DM is closely linked to obesity, poor dietary habits, and sedentary lifestyles. Incretin hormones, particularly GLP-1 and GIP, play a critical role in glucose metabolism by stimulating insulin secretion and regulating lipid metabolism. Tirzepatide's dual mechanism amplifies these effects, leading to superior glycemic control and metabolic benefits compared to single-hormone therapies.Chemically, tirzepatide is a 39-amino acid synthetic peptide with a fatty acid modification that prolongs its half-life, allowing for once-weekly administration. It preferentially binds to the GIP receptor while retaining biased signaling at the GLP-1 receptor, contributing to its efficacy in glucose regulation and weight management. The drug also enhances insulin sensitivity, reduces fasting triglyceride levels, and positively impacts lipid metabolism.Furthermore, tirzepatide mitigates -cell dysfunction, which is a hallmark of T2DM, by reducing oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Clinical studies have demonstrated significant reductions in glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and body weight, positioning tirzepatide as a promising therapeutic option for diabetes and obesity management.This review highlights the pharmacological, molecular, and clinical aspects of tirzepatide, emphasizing its unique mechanism of action, potential advantages over existing therapies, and its role in addressing the twin epidemics of obesity and diabetes.
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