What Is Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide is a prescription injection used for managing type 2 diabetes
and for weight
loss in people who are overweight or obese with related health
risks.
It works by triggering two key hormone receptors, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent
insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), which influence appetite,
digestion, and blood sugar control.
Marketed under the brand name Mounjaro®, tirzepatide may be prescribed in
Singapore to eligible individuals with type 2 diabetes or those receiving
medically supervised weight management. It is typically administered once
weekly by subcutaneous injection.
Tirzepatide Mechanism of Action: How Does It Work?
Tirzepatide works by activating both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, which support blood sugar control and weight management. Its main effects include:
- Appetite suppression that helps reduce food intake and supports weight loss.
- Slower gastric emptying, meaning food remains in the stomach longer and prevents sharp rises in blood sugar after meals.
- Enhanced insulin secretion, particularly through the effect of GIP, which improves the body’s ability to lower glucose levels after eating.
- Reduced glucagon production, which limits the release of glucose from the liver during fasting.
When combined with lifestyle changes such as balanced nutrition and regular physical activity, these effects promote better glucose regulation and more sustainable weight management.
Tirzepatide vs Other GLP-1 Medications
Tirzepatide differs from standard GLP-1 medications because it activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, while medicines such as semaglutide, dulaglutide, and liraglutide act only on GLP-1. This dual mechanism may provide additional benefits for blood sugar and appetite control.
| Medication | Receptor Targets | Dosing Frequency and Route | Used For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) | GLP-1 & GIP | Weekly injection (subcutaneous) | Type 2 diabetes, weight management |
| Semaglutide (Ozempic® / Wegovy® / Rybelsus®) | GLP-1 only | Weekly injection (subcutaneous) | Type 2 diabetes (Ozempic), weight management (Wegovy) |
| Dulaglutide (Trulicity®) | GLP-1 only | Weekly injection (subcutaneous) | Type 2 diabetes |
| Liraglutide (Victoza® / Saxenda®) | GLP-1 only | Daily injection (subcutaneous) | Type 2 diabetes (Victoza), weight management (Saxenda) |
Who May Benefit from Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide may be beneficial for people managing type 2 diabetes or excess weight, especially when long-term consistency is important. Key advantages include:
- Once-weekly dosing, which is easier to maintain compared to medications that require daily administration.
- Prefilled injection pens, allowing for self-administration at home without the need for regular clinic visits.
- Gradual dose adjustment, allowing your doctor to increase the dose incrementally based on your comfort and needs.
- Combined blood sugar and weight management, which reduces the need for several different medications to manage both conditions.
Potential Tirzepatide Side Effects
Like other medications, tirzepatide may cause side effects. These effects are usually mild to
moderate and often ease as your body adapts to the treatment.
Common side effects can include:
- Reduced appetite
- Indigestion
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
Less common but more serious side effects can include:
- Pancreatitis
- Severe digestive issues
- Low blood sugar, especially when combined with other diabetes medicines
- Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or dizziness
You should seek urgent medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain,
signs of an allergic reaction, or symptoms that persist or worsen over time.
Disclaimer: This is not a complete list of side effects. Always
consult your doctor if you notice any abnormal or severe symptoms or have
concerns while using tirzepatide.
Who Should Avoid Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide is not suitable for everyone and is generally avoided in people with the following conditions:
- Severe gastrointestinal problems such as gastroparesis, since tirzepatide slows stomach emptying and may worsen symptoms
- History of pancreatitis, due to the risk of recurrence
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), as it may raise the risk of thyroid tumour development
- Type 1 diabetes, as tirzepatide is not approved for this condition
It is advisable to consult a doctor to determine whether tirzepatide is appropriate for your health and weight management goals.
Is Tirzepatide Available in Singapore?
Tirzepatide is available only by prescription in Singapore and
cannot be purchased over the counter. A medical
consultation is required to determine suitability based on your health,
medical history, and treatment goals.
If prescribed, your progress will be monitored through follow-up consultations,
allowing your doctor to adjust the dosage if needed and to ensure the treatment is
used appropriately under professional supervision.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Tirzepatide is available only with a prescription from a licensed healthcare professional. It cannot be purchased over the counter and should be used under medical supervision. A medical consultation is necessary to review your health, medical history, and treatment goals before it can be prescribed for type 2 diabetes or weight management.
Tirzepatide may be considered for individuals with type 2 diabetes, or for those who are overweight or obese with related health conditions such as high blood pressure or abnormal cholesterol levels. Eligibility depends on factors such as body mass index, overall health, and previous treatment responses. It is advisable to consult a doctor to determine whether tirzepatide is appropriate for your health and weigh management goals.
Tirzepatide is not recommended for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). It is also generally avoided in those with a history of pancreatitis, severe gastrointestinal conditions such as gastroparesis, or known allergies to its ingredients. It is advisable to consult a doctor who can determine whether tirzepatide is appropriate for you based on your medical history.
The cost of tirzepatide in Singapore varies depending on the provider, dosage, and whether it is part of a structured medical programme. For the most up-to-date estimate, it is best to check directly with your chosen clinic or healthcare provider.
Yes. Tirzepatide is available in Singapore under the brand name Mounjaro®. It must be prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional and is generally used for the management of type 2 diabetes or as part of a supervised weight management plan. A consultation is required to review your medical history, assess treatment suitability, and determine the most appropriate dosage. Regular follow-up appointments are also important to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment as needed.
Weight loss results with tirzepatide vary between individuals. Factors such as dosage, diet, exercise, and overall health all influence outcomes. Clinical trials have shown meaningful reductions in body weight within the first three months of treatment, but results differ for each person. A doctor can provide guidance on what to expect based on your situation.
Yes, tirzepatide may also be prescribed for weight management in people without diabetes if they are overweight or obese with conditions like high blood pressure, sleep apnoea, or cholesterol problems. Its use in such cases is usually part of a supervised treatment plan. A medication consultation by a doctor is required to assess whether it is appropriate for you.
Treatment with tirzepatide may be continued as long as it remains beneficial and well tolerated. The duration differs for each person depending on treatment goals, response, and any side effects. It requires regular review by your doctor which will help determine whether therapy should be continued, adjusted, or stopped.
Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) is not recommended for people with a history of pancreatitis, severe gastrointestinal conditions such as gastroparesis, or known hypersensitivity to its ingredients. It is also avoided in those with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). As it is a prescription-only treatment, your doctor will review your medical history and assess your suitability during consultation.
Tirzepatide is not directly associated with kidney damage when taken as prescribed. However, side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea may lead to dehydration, which can temporarily affect kidney function. Those with pre-existing kidney conditions may require closer monitoring. It is advisable to discuss your kidney health with your doctor before starting treatment.
Tirzepatide is given as a subcutaneous injection, which means it is injected into the fatty layer just under the skin. Common sites include the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotating the injection site each time helps reduce the risk of irritation or skin changes. Always follow your doctor’s advice regarding where and how to inject, as well as how to use the prefilled pen correctly.
There are no specific foods that must be strictly avoided while taking tirzepatide. However, it is best to avoid greasy, spicy, or high-fat meals, as these may worsen digestive side effects such as nausea. Eating smaller, balanced meals and maintaining a healthy diet can improve tolerability and support your treatment goals. Always follow your doctor’s or dietitian’s guidance on foods to avoid and those that can complement your weight management plan.