Research

Hormonal

Combination incretin therapies (GLP-1/GIP, GLP-1/Glucagon, or GLP-1/GIP/Glucagon) produce superior weight loss and glycemic control compared to monotherapy GLP-1 receptor agonists by targeting multiple hormonal pathways simultaneously.

If standard GLP-1 drugs (like Ozempic or Saxenda) aren't delivering enough weight loss or metabolic improvement, combination therapies like Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) or Cotadutide target multiple hormones (GLP-1, GIP, Glucagon) to potentially achieve greater weight loss and better blood sugar control. These are typically weekly injections, though oral versions exist. Expect potential gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, which often improve over time. Consult a doctor to see if you qualify for these newer, more potent treatments.

ModerateSupportsMEDIUM confidence
The combination of insulinotropic actions of GIP with the favorable cardiovascular outcomes and weight reduction of GLP-1 may offer superior glycemic control... Compared to a selective GLP-1 receptor agonist, the synergistic action of GIP combined with GLP-1 shows more effective weight loss and reduction in food intake with increased energy expenditure
Agni Kakouri et al. · Pharmaceuticals · 2021

Why this rating

The review summarizes clinical trials (Phase 2/3) for tirzepatide and cotadutide, but notes that many newer triagonists are still in Phase 1 or animal studies, indicating mixed evidence quality across the category.

Source

New Incretin Combination Treatments under Investigation in Obesity and Metabolism: A Systematic Review

Agni Kakouri et al. · Pharmaceuticals · 2021

DOI 10.3390/ph14090869

systematic_reviewCited 12×
Read the paper
DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10

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