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PeptideHormone

Tirzepatide vs Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide

A dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist — the first of the co-agonists. The second incretin, with distinct adipose and CNS biology. Side by side: type, evidence tier, receptor, molecular weight, and half-life — the same fields as each monograph, rearranged so the engineering difference is visible.

Tirzepatide
Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide
GIP
Also known asMounjaro, Zepbound
TypeAnalogEndogenous
EvidenceEstablishedEstablished
FamilyIncretins & metabolicIncretins & metabolic
ClassDual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist (39 aa, acylated)Incretin peptide (42 aa)
ReceptorGIP receptor + GLP-1 receptorGIP receptor (GIPR), a class B GPCR
Molecular weight~4,813.5 Da~4,983.6 Da
Half-life
~5 days (~120 h)
Model dosing
~5–7 min (native; DPP-4)
Model dosing
Based onGlucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptideNative hormone

Half-life bars are on a logarithmic scale across the molecules shown. Reference values for the native or representative form — educational only, not medical or dosing advice.

Common questions

What is the difference between Tirzepatide and Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide?
Tirzepatide is an engineered analog based on Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide; Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide is an endogenous hormone. Tirzepatide signals at GIP receptor + GLP-1 receptor; Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide signals at GIP receptor (GIPR), a class B GPCR.
How do the half-lives of Tirzepatide and GIP compare?
The reported circulating half-life of Tirzepatide is ~5 days (~120 h); Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide is ~5–7 min (native; DPP-4). These are reference values for the native or representative form — educational only, not dosing advice.
Is Tirzepatide the same as Mounjaro?
Mounjaro, Zepbound are brand names of Tirzepatide. This comparison describes the molecules, not branded products.

Prefer the other order? Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide vs Tirzepatide. Or open the interactive comparison tool to add more molecules.