Tirzepatide, a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA), significantly improves glycemic control and reduces weight compared with long-acting insulin in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The findings were reported in a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials in Journal of Diabetology.

Three trials including 4,301 participants compared once-weekly tirzepatide at doses of 5, 10, or 15 mg with once-daily long-acting insulin. All tirzepatide doses achieved greater reductions in glycated hemoglobin (mean difference [MD]: −0.89% to −1.23%) and body weight (MD: −8.41 kg to −12.49 kg) versus insulin. The risk of hypoglycemia was reduced (relative risk [RR]: 0.39–0.47).

Tirzepatide was associated with a higher risk of gastrointestinal events, most notably vomiting (RR: 4.02–6.55). The meta-analysis underscores tirzepatide as a potent therapeutic option for T2DM, providing both glucose lowering and weight reduction, with a favorable hypoglycemia profile, while requiring monitoring for gastrointestinal tolerance.