Comparison
Cagrilintide vs. Tirzepatide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Metabolic
Metabolic
CAS no.
1415456-99-3
2023788-19-2
Molecular weight
4253.7 g/mol
4813 g/mol
Half-life
168 h
116 h
Sequence
KCNTATCATQRLANFLVRSSNNLGPVLPPTNVGSNTYYXEGTFTSDYSIYLDKIAQKAFVQWLIAGGPSSGAPPPSMechanism of action
Cagrilintide
Cagrilintide binds amylin receptors (AMY1, AMY3, formed by the calcitonin receptor plus RAMP proteins). Activation delays gastric emptying, inhibits postprandial glucagon secretion and modulates central satiety signalling via area postrema neurons. An acyl modification enables albumin binding and thereby weekly dosing.
Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide is a 39-amino-acid peptide acting as a dual agonist at the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors. Activation of both incretin receptors via G-protein-coupled signalling raises insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, lowers glucagon secretion and delays gastric emptying. Centrally, satiety perception is modulated. A fatty-acid side chain binds to serum albumin and extends the half-life to about five days.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
4
4
of which in humans
3
4
Effects recorded
3
4
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
1
2
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Cagrilintide and Tirzepatide?
- Cagrilintide is classified as "Metabolic", while Tirzepatide is classified as "Metabolic". Cagrilintide: Synthetic long-acting amylin analog being developed in combination with semaglutide (CagriSema). Phase 3 trials for obesity and type 2 diabetes are ongoing. No marketing approval yet. Tirzepatide: Synthetic peptide that simultaneously activates the GLP-1 and GIP receptor (dual agonist). Approved in the US and EU for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro) and obesity (Zepbound). This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Cagrilintide or Tirzepatide?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Cagrilintide and "Human RCT" for Tirzepatide. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Cagrilintide and Tirzepatide in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Cagrilintide — Unapproved, Tirzepatide — Prescription. United States: Cagrilintide — Unapproved, Tirzepatide — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.