Drug Review: Tirzepatide

PTB Reports, 2023, 9, 1, 20-22.
DOI: 10.5530/PTB.2023.9.3
Published: November 2023
Type: Drug Review
Authors: Juman Alsaab

Author(s) affiliations:
Juman Alsaab, Pharm D, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, SAUDI ARABIA.

Abstract

Registrations: Tirzepatide has been registered in the following countries: United States of America (USA), United Kingdom (U.K.), Canada, and Saudi Arabia (S.A.). Trade name (USA): MOUNJARO Registration number (S.A.); Not Available. Insurance Drug Formulary (S.A.); Not covered (28.1.2023). General Information: Registered Company: Lilly USA. Regulatory Status: R.X. Mechanism of Action: Tirzepatide is a Glucose-dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide (GIP) receptor and Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It is a 39-amino acid-modified peptide containing a C20 fatty diacid component that facilitates albumin binding and increases the halflife. Tirzepatide preferentially binds to and activates GIP and GLP- 1 receptors, hence targeting endogenous GIP and GLP. Tirzepatide increases the first and second phases of insulin secretion and decreases glucagon levels in a glucose-dependent manner. Tirzepatide reduces fasting and postprandial glucose levels, food consumption, and body weight in people with type 2 diabetes. Indication: Type 2 diabetes mellitus.