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Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) lowers blood glucose by several mechanisms, including stimulating insulin secretion and suppressing glucagon secretion during hyperglycemia. Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) also stimulates insulin release during hyperglycemia, but it also stimulates glucagon release during hypoglycemia. Thus, a dual agonist for both GLP-1 and GIP receptors theoretically could enhance glycemic control while minimizing hypoglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes. Tirzepatide, which is not yet U.S. FDA approved, is a dual agonist for both receptors. Researchers have examined its effects in two industry-sponsored randomized trials that involved patients with type 2 diabetes.
In one trial, three doses of tirzep…