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Anti-inflammatory effects of tirzepatide: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Rev Endocr Metab Disord · 2026

Last updated 2026-05-28

A review of clinical studies found that tirzepatide, a drug that targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, significantly reduced two markers of inflammation: high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) by about 33% and interleukin-6 (IL-6) by about 18%, compared to a placebo. The reductions were seen across different doses of tirzepatide (5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg) and in various study populations.

AI summary of the abstract below.

JournalRev Endocr Metab Disord, 2026
Citations1
Molecules tirzepatide
Conditions studied Type 2 Diabetes, Obesity, Cardiovascular Risk Reduction, Mash, Chronic Kidney Disease

Abstract

Tirzepatide, a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, has shown significant metabolic benefits and weight reduction, but its anti-inflammatory effects have been less studied. This study was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, including observational (cohort) studies and randomized clinical trials that evaluated tirzepatide use and reported percentage changes in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). A random-effects model was used. Seven randomized clinical trials and one observational study were included (six studies were eligible for meta-analysis). Compared to placebo, tirzepatide reduced hsCRP (mean difference [MD]: -32.9; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -33.6 to - 32.2; I²=15.3%) and IL-6 (MD: -17.8; 95% CI: -24.3 to - 11.3; I² = 1.6%). Levels of hsCRP were significantly reduced with tirzepatide at 15 mg (MD: -32.9; 95% CI: -33.6 to - 32.2; I²=4.4%), 10 mg (MD: -33.9; 95% CI: -50.3 to - 17.6; I²=41.8%), and 5 mg (MD: -20.3; 95% CI: -35.2 to - 5.3; I²=0%). Similarly, IL-6 levels were significantly reduced with tirzepatide at 5 mg (MD: -18.8; 95% CI: -32.9 to - 4.6; I²=17.2%), 10 mg (MD: -17.9; 95% CI: -28.2 to - 7.7; I²=2.1%), and 15 mg (MD: -16.8; 95% CI: -31.1 to - 2.6; I²=47.4%). This study demonstrated that tirzepatide use is associated with a significant reduction in inflammatory markers, regardless of the population studied or treatment regimen.

Verbatim abstract via PubMed 41032183 ↗

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