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Mechanism

GIP

Second gut hormone targeted by tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro). Dual GIP/GLP-1 action drives stronger weight loss than single-agonist drugs.

GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) is the second major incretin hormone alongside GLP-1. Released by K-cells in the duodenum after eating, GIP stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion. Tirzepatide is the first marketed drug to activate both GIP and GLP-1 receptors. The combination produces larger glucose-lowering and weight-loss effects than GLP-1 monotherapy alone (per SURPASS-2 head-to-head).

Also known as

glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide

Drugs in this category

Related terms

GLP-1: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist — class of drugs that mimic a gut hormone to reduce appetite and slow stomach emptying.
Tirzepatide: Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist; active ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound.
Incretin: Gut hormone (GLP-1 or GIP) that stimulates insulin secretion in response to oral glucose.

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