Education · American Fit Denver
What Is Tirzepatide?
How the GLP-1/GIP medication works, what the research shows, who it’s for, and what’s in American Fit’s enhanced formula.
Tirzepatide at a glance
Tirzepatide is a once-weekly injectable medication that activates two hormone receptors involved in appetite and blood-sugar control: GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). It is the active ingredient in the FDA-approved brand-name medications Mounjaro® (for type 2 diabetes) and Zepbound® (for chronic weight management).
How it works
- Reduces appetite so you feel full sooner and stay full longer
- Slows digestion, which helps with portion control
- Improves insulin sensitivity and how the body handles blood sugar
- Quiets food cravings, making consistent nutrition more realistic
What the research shows
In the SURMOUNT-1 trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine, adults with obesity taking once-weekly tirzepatide for 72 weeks lost an average of about 15% to 21% of their body weight depending on dose, compared with about 3% on placebo. Participants also received lifestyle counseling.
Individual results vary. Starting weight, dose, consistency, nutrition, activity, and medical history all influence how much weight a person loses.
Who it’s for — and who it isn’t
Tirzepatide is typically considered for adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with a weight-related condition such as high blood pressure or insulin resistance. It may not be appropriate if you:
- Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or MEN 2
- Have a history of pancreatitis or certain gallbladder or digestive conditions
- Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy
- Take certain other diabetes medications (your provider will review this)
Side effects
The most common side effects are digestive: nausea, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, especially when starting or increasing a dose. Smaller meals, staying well hydrated, and careful titration help. Tirzepatide carries a boxed warning about the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. Report any persistent or severe symptoms to your provider promptly.
Compounded tirzepatide vs. Mounjaro and Zepbound
Mounjaro® and Zepbound® are FDA-approved brand-name products made by Eli Lilly and Company. American Fit’s tirzepatide is a compounded medication, prepared by a licensed pharmacy under Sections 503A/503B of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and applicable Colorado law. It contains the same active ingredient, but compounded medications are not FDA-approved and have not been reviewed by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or quality. American Fit is not affiliated with Eli Lilly, and our formulation is not Mounjaro or Zepbound.
Enhanced formula
New & improved tirzepatide formula: glycine + vitamin B12
We’re always looking for ways to improve the treatment experience. Our enhanced tirzepatide formula now includes glycine and vitamin B12, with the same physician-guided GLP-1 therapy you know and trust.
Glycine
Included to support overall wellness and improve treatment tolerability.
Vitamin B12
Supports healthy energy production and overall metabolic function.
Physician-guided care
The same American Fit clinical team, dosing protocol, and ongoing support.
Why is it red? The red color comes from vitamin B12, a natural component of our enhanced formula. It does not affect the safety, quality, or effectiveness of your medication.
What stays the same
- Your prescribed tirzepatide dose stays the same unless your provider instructs otherwise
- Continue using your medication exactly as directed
- Keep prioritizing hydration, protein, physical activity, and follow-ups with your provider
Tirzepatide questions
How is tirzepatide taken?
It’s a once-weekly injection under the skin, usually in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. American Fit patients receive pre-filled syringes, supplies, and a step-by-step injection guide.
Why is my tirzepatide red?
The red color comes from vitamin B12 in our enhanced formula. It does not affect the safety, quality, or effectiveness of your medication.
Will tirzepatide make me lose muscle?
Some lean mass loss can happen with any significant weight loss. Eating enough protein and doing regular resistance training are the best ways to protect muscle, and your provider will guide you on both.
I’ve taken semaglutide before. Can I switch?
Tell us about any prior GLP-1 use in your assessment. Your provider will review your history and decide on the right starting plan.
See if tirzepatide is right for you
New patients can start with the $149 first-month offer. Current patients: your team will guide any transition to the enhanced formula.