Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) differs mechanistically from semaglutide in that it is which type of receptor agonist?
- A Selective GLP-1 receptor agonist with longer half-life than semaglutide
- B Dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist (twincretin) ✓
- C Dual GLP-1 and glucagon receptor agonist
- D Triple GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptor agonist
Correct answer: B. Dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist (twincretin)
Explanation
Tirzepatide is a dual incretin agonist — it activates both GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors. GIP normally amplifies insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner; tirzepatide's GIP agonism synergizes with GLP-1 agonism to give greater reductions in HbA1c and body weight than GLP-1 agonists alone. Semaglutide is a selective GLP-1 receptor agonist. Option D (triple agonist with glucagon) describes retatrutide, a newer investigational agent.
Reference: KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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