Tirzepatide
What is Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide is a medication that activates two natural gut-hormone pathways at once — GIP and GLP-1 (a "dual receptor agonist"). Both hormones help regulate blood sugar, digestion, and appetite. At RxSpan MD, tirzepatide is offered as a compounded medication in injectable and oral (capsule) forms.
How does it work?
Tirzepatide mimics two hormones the body naturally makes (GIP and GLP-1). It helps the pancreas release insulin in response to food, slows stomach emptying, and reduces appetite while promoting fullness.
How is it taken?
Injectable form: a subcutaneous injection, typically once weekly.
Oral (capsule) form: taken by mouth as directed by your provider.
Your provider determines the right form, dose, and schedule, and dosing is typically increased gradually over time. (Note: there is currently no FDA-approved oral tirzepatide product; the oral form is compounded.)
Possible side effects
The most common side effects are digestive: nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting — usually most noticeable when starting or increasing the dose. More serious reported risks in this class include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, kidney problems from dehydration, low blood sugar (particularly with other diabetes medicines), and allergic reactions. This is not a complete list — discuss full prescribing information with your provider.
Important safety information — possible thyroid tumors
In animal studies, this class of medication caused thyroid C-cell tumors. It is not known whether it causes thyroid tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in people. Do not use this medication if you or a family member has a history of MTC or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Tell your provider about all your medical conditions before starting.
About compounded medications
About compounded medications. Compounded tirzepatide is not FDA-approved. The FDA does not review compounded medications for safety, effectiveness, or quality. Compounded medications are prepared by a state-licensed pharmacy based on an individual prescription, and are provided only when a licensed provider determines they are appropriate for you.
This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not complete prescribing information. Whether any medication is appropriate for you is determined by a licensed provider based on your individual health history. Always talk to your RxSpan MD provider about the risks, benefits, and full prescribing information before starting or changing any treatment.