What is Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide is a dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist — the active ingredient in Mounjaro (diabetes) and Zepbound (weight loss). Its dual mechanism produces stronger appetite suppression and weight loss than semaglutide in clinical trials. Average weight loss in trials was 20-22% of body weight at maximum dose, vs ~15% for semaglutide.
How it works
Weekly subcutaneous injection, same as semaglutide. Titrated up from 2.5mg to a maintenance dose of 5-15mg over several months. Dual mechanism (GLP-1 + GIP) produces greater metabolic effects than GLP-1 alone.
Clinics that offer tirzepatide online
What does tirzepatide cost online?
Compounded tirzepatide costs $150–$450/mo online — more expensive than compounded semaglutide due to higher API cost. Brand Zepbound retails at $1,000+/mo without insurance. True annual cost online: $1,800–$5,400/yr.
Side effects and safety
Similar to semaglutide: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation (most common during titration). Same contraindications: personal/family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2. Generally slightly higher rate of GI side effects than semaglutide at equivalent efficacy doses.
Frequently asked questions
Is tirzepatide better than semaglutide for weight loss?
In clinical trials, tirzepatide produced greater average weight loss (20-22% body weight) than semaglutide (~15%) at maximum doses. However, individual response varies — some patients do better on semaglutide. Tirzepatide is also more expensive. Most clinics recommend starting with semaglutide and switching if results plateau.
How much does compounded tirzepatide cost?
Compounded tirzepatide from licensed telehealth clinics runs $150-450/mo, depending on dose and clinic. This compares to $1,000+/mo for brand-name Zepbound without insurance. True annual cost on compounded tirzepatide: $1,800-5,400/yr.
Is compounded tirzepatide safe?
Compounded tirzepatide from licensed 503A/503B pharmacies uses the same active pharmaceutical ingredient as Zepbound. The safety concerns specific to tirzepatide (thyroid tumors in animals, GI side effects, pancreatitis) are the same as brand-name. Quality depends on the compounding pharmacy — all clinics on ClinicLayer use state-licensed, inspected pharmacies.
Who qualifies for tirzepatide online?
Eligibility typically requires a BMI of 30+ (or 27+ with a weight-related condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol). A telehealth consultation is required. Tirzepatide is contraindicated with personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2 syndrome.