Comparison
Dulaglutide vs. Tirzepatide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Metabolic
Metabolic
CAS no.
923950-08-7
2023788-19-2
Molecular weight
59670 g/mol
4813 g/mol
Half-life
110 h
116 h
Sequence
GLP-1(7-37)-Variante kovalent verbunden mit modifiziertem humanen IgG4-FcYXEGTFTSDYSIYLDKIAQKAFVQWLIAGGPSSGAPPPSMechanism of action
Dulaglutide
Dulaglutide consists of two modified GLP-1(7-37) sequences covalently linked to a human IgG4-Fc. The Fc fusion increases molecular weight substantially (~60 kDa), reduces renal filtration and extends the half-life to several days. GLP-1 receptor activation glucose-dependently stimulates insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon, delays gastric emptying and modulates central satiety signalling.
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
5
4
of which in humans
5
4
Effects recorded
3
4
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
2
2
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Dulaglutide and Tirzepatide?
- Dulaglutide is classified as "Metabolic", while Tirzepatide is classified as "Metabolic". Dulaglutide: GLP-1 receptor agonist designed as a fusion protein of two modified GLP-1(7-37) sequences covalently linked to a human IgG4-Fc fragment. FDA-approved 2014 (Trulicity) for type 2 diabetes; EMA approval 2014. 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, Dulaglutide or Tirzepatide?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Dulaglutide 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 Dulaglutide and Tirzepatide in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Dulaglutide — Prescription, Tirzepatide — Prescription. United States: Dulaglutide — Prescription, Tirzepatide — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.