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Tirzepatide in Singapore: Prescription Injectable for Weight loss and Metabolic Health
Tirzepatide is a prescription-only injectable medication designed to support weight management and metabolic health. Tirzepatide (active ingredient: Tirzepatide) is officially available in Singapore for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and medical weight management Singapore.
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It is a weight loss injection suitable for diabetes patients and individuals with a higher body mass index (BMI of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with weight-related health issues). Medical weight management with tirzepatide requires medical support and must be supervised by a certified MOH doctor.
Introduction to Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide is a prescription medication used for individuals seeking weight management and metabolic health improvements. Approved for type 2 diabetes, tirzepatide is also used to support weight management.
Dual Mechanism of Action
As a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, tirzepatide mimics the actions of two key hormones that regulate blood sugar and appetite. By activating both the GIP and GLP-1 pathways, it helps control blood sugar levels, reduce food intake, and support gradual weight reduction.
Medical Supervision Required
Tirzepatide should only be used under the guidance of a certified MOH doctor to ensure safe management of blood sugar and body weight.
How Tirzepatide Works
Tirzepatide is a dual agonist, activating two hormone receptors: glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP).
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GLP-1 receptor activation regulates digestion, hunger signals, and appetite control.
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GIP receptor activation supports insulin secretion and improves insulin sensitivity, contributing to blood sugar control.
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This dual mechanism distinguishes tirzepatide from traditional GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide, which target only the GLP-1 pathway. Clinical studies indicate that this dual action may support more substantial effects on appetite regulation, glucose metabolism, and weight management outcomes.
Role of GLP-1 and GIP
GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone released from the intestines after food intake. It:
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Stimulates insulin secretion
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Suppresses glucagon release
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Slows gastric emptying
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These actions help lower blood glucose and increase satiety, reducing calorie intake. Tirzepatide supports these effects by also activating GIP receptors, which further improves insulin secretion and metabolic health, supporting greater weight management outcomes compared to medications targeting only GLP-1.
Eligibility for Tirzepatide in Singapore
Tirzepatide is generally prescribed for adults who meet the following criteria:
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BMI of 30 or higher (obesity)
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BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related health conditions or comorbidities
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Eligibility must be determined by a Certified MOH Doctor. A comprehensive medical assessment includes:
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Reviewing medical history and family history of conditions such as medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2
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Assessing current health status, including cardiovascular disease and other weight-related health issues
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Treatment is personalized to ensure safety and suitability.
Administration and Dosage
Tirzepatide is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection, typically in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
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Treatment generally starts at a low dose and is gradually increased based on individual response and tolerability.
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Ongoing monitoring and follow-up appointments are essential to assess progress and adjust the treatment plan.
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Patients must be 21 years or older to receive tirzepatide in Singapore.
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Gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal discomfort, are most common during dose escalation and usually improve as the body adjusts.
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Missed dose guidance: Take the missed injection within four days; if more than four days have passed, skip and resume the regular schedule. Consult your doctor if unsure.
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Treatment duration varies depending on individual response, tolerability, and medical goals, and will be regularly reviewed by your healthcare provider.
Weight Management and Metabolic Support
Clinical studies indicate that tirzepatide may support weight reduction when combined with lifestyle modifications, including healthy eating and regular physical activity:
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Average weight loss in trials: 20.2% of body weight, compared to 13.7% with semaglutide
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Initial weight reduction typically occurs within 4 to 8 weeks
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Average weight loss ranges from 15% to 20% over 72 weeks
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Supports improved blood glucose levels, insulin secretion, and overall glucose metabolism
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Tirzepatide is used in chronic weight management, blood sugar control, and long-term weight maintenance. Some weight regain may occur after stopping treatment, but continued lifestyle support may help maintain results.
Side Effects and Safety Considerations
Common side effects of tirzepatide include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. These are usually mild and improve as the body adjusts.
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Rare but serious risks include pancreatitis, severe gastrointestinal problems, severe abdominal pain, and allergic reactions.
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Not recommended for individuals with:
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Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
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Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2
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History of pancreatitis or severe gastrointestinal disease
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Immediate medical attention is required for severe abdominal pain or allergic reactions.
Integrating Tirzepatide into Weight Management
Tirzepatide is typically used as part of a comprehensive weight management program:
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Dietary modifications and healthy eating
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Regular physical activity
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Monitoring body weight, BMI, and blood pressure
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Medical supervision to adjust dosage based on individual response
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It supports weight management rather than replacing lifestyle interventions. Ongoing medical supervision helps ensure safety and appropriate outcomes.
Integrating Tirzepatide into Weight Management
Tirzepatide is typically used as part of a comprehensive weight management program:
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Dietary modifications and healthy eating
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Regular physical activity
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Monitoring body weight, BMI, and blood pressure
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Medical supervision to adjust dosage based on individual response
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It supports weight management rather than replacing lifestyle interventions. Ongoing medical supervision helps ensure safety and appropriate outcomes.
Access and Cost in Singapore
Tirzepatide is available by prescription and can be accessed at our clinic, Fundamental Aesthetic Medical Clinic, as well as other private endocrinology, specialist medical, and select general practitioner clinics with metabolic or weight management programs. It is not available over the counter.
Key Takeaways
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Tirzepatide is a dual agonist injectable medication activating GLP-1 and GIP receptors
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Supports weight management, blood sugar control, and metabolic health
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Prescription-only in Singapore and requires medical consultation
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Clinical studies show average weight reduction of 15–20% of body weight
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Most common side effects are gastrointestinal, usually mild and temporary
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Ongoing medical supervision is important for safety and treatment monitoring
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Tirzepatide Singapore offers an evidence-based option for adults seeking weight management support, metabolic health improvements, and monitoring of weight-related conditions.