GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) is a hormone released by the gut that, like GLP-1, boosts insulin release after eating. Newer medications such as tirzepatide act on both the GIP and GLP-1 receptors together ("dual agonists"), which appears to produce greater effects on blood sugar and weight than targeting GLP-1 alone. In the SURPASS-2 trial, tirzepatide lowered HbA1c and body weight more than semaglutide 1 mg (Frías et al., NEJM, 2021 (external link)).
GIP
Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide — a second gut hormone, alongside GLP-1, that some newer medications (like tirzepatide) target together.
Updated Sep 26, 2026
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