Tirzepatide in Singapore: Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Medically Reviewed By: Dr Jana Lim | MBChB, MMed | Board-Accredited Family Physician

MBChB, MMed | Board-Accredited Family Physician

Last updated: Dec 24, 2025

Woman in workout clothes measuring her waist, showing the metabolic health benefits of tirzepatide

What Is Tirzepatide?

Tirzepatide is a prescription injection that works by acting on natural hormones in your body that help regulate appetite, digestion, and how your body processes sugar. It is usually started at a low dose and adjusted gradually based on individual response.

It may be considered for individuals who require medical support in managing metabolic health, including those with conditions related to insulin control or adults with a higher body mass index (BMI), as assessed by a doctor.

How Does Tirzepatide Work?

Tirzepatide works by stimulating the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), which together contribute to more stable post-meal glucose responses.

This dual activity influences several processes related to glucose handling:

Delayed gastric emptying – Slows how quickly food moves through the stomach, supporting steadier post-meal glucose levels.
Enhanced insulin release after meals – Helps the body utilise glucose more effectively in a glucose-dependent manner.
Reduced glucagon levels – May help limit the amount of glucose released from the liver.

Unlike semaglutide, liraglutide, and dulaglutide, which act on GLP-1 receptors alone, tirzepatide targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors.

Who Is Tirzepatide Suitable For?

Tirzepatide may be suitable for adults who require further medical support with metabolic regulation, based on a doctor's assessment of their overall health needs and treatment goals.

This can include situations where:

Additional metabolic support is needed to help the body regulate appetite, digestion, or sugar processing alongside existing treatments
Commonly used first-line medicines are not suitable because they cause side effects or cannot be used safely for the specific individual
There are clinical indicators such as a high BMI and related health conditions (for example, hypertension or dyslipidaemia) that suggest further metabolic intervention could be appropriate

Tirzepatide is generally used together with lifestyle measures such as balanced nutrition and increased physical activity, and it is prescribed only after your doctor evaluates whether it is appropriate for your specific circumstances.

"Tirzepatide may help reduce long-term health risks for patients with elevated BMI and related conditions such as hypertension. For those who experience significant weight loss, regular follow-ups allow your doctor to monitor your condition and adjust the care plan as needed." "Tirzepatide may help reduce long-term health risks for patients with elevated BMI and related conditions such as hypertension. For those who experience significant weight loss, regular follow-ups allow your doctor to monitor your condition and adjust the care plan as needed."

Dr Jana Lim | MBChB, MMed, Family Physician

Dr Jana Lim
MBChB, MMed, Family Physician

What Are the Benefits of Tirzepatide?

Doctor holding a sign about tirzepatide benefits for metabolic regulation and weekly dosing support

Tirzepatide offers several practical benefits that can support long-term metabolic regulation and treatment adherence. Some key benefits include:

Once-weekly dosing – May be easier to integrate into a regular routine
A prefilled injection pen – Allows individuals to administer the medication at home after receiving appropriate instruction
Gradual dose adjustments – Enables the dosage to be matched to individual needs and tolerability
A hormone-based mechanism that works gradually – Supports multiple metabolic functions, compared to some other medicines that primarily work through a single main action in the body

What Are Potential Side Effects of Tirzepatide?

Tirzepatide may cause side effects, and these can vary between individuals. The effects most commonly reported involve the digestive system and may include:

Nausea
Diarrhoea
Reduced appetite
Vomiting
Constipation
Indigestion

More serious but less common side effects may occur, such as pancreatitis, significant gastrointestinal discomfort, or low blood sugar, especially when used alongside other glucose-lowering medicines. Allergic reactions may also occur and may present with swelling, breathing difficulty, or widespread rashes.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain, symptoms of an allergic reaction, or any adverse effects that persist or worsen.

Disclaimer: This is not a complete list of all possible side effects, and you should always discuss any concerns or unusual symptoms with your doctor.

Who Might Tirzepatide Not Be Suitable For?

Diagnosis form for pancreatitis with pills, indicating health history making tirzepatide unsuitable

Tirzepatide may not be appropriate for certain individuals. Your doctor may advise against its use if you have:

A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
A previous episode of pancreatitis
Significant digestive conditions such as severe gastroparesis
Type 1 diabetes, for which this medicine is not indicated

Where Can I Get Tirzepatide in Singapore?

In Singapore, tirzepatide is classified as a prescription-only medicine. You will need a consultation with a doctor, who will review your medical history, evaluate your current health status, and determine whether this treatment is suitable for your condition.

If tirzepatide is prescribed, it will be provided as part of a supervised care plan, which may include follow-up appointments, ongoing monitoring, and dose adjustments where medically appropriate.

What Is the Price of Tirzepatide in Singapore?

The price of tirzepatide in Singapore ranges from $400 onwards for a monthly dose. The actual cost depends on the prescribed dosage, as tirzepatide is typically started at a lower dose and gradually increased based on individual response and tolerability.

Since tirzepatide requires a prescription, the total expense will also include an initial consultation fee and any follow-up appointments needed to monitor your progress. Your doctor can provide a clearer estimate during your consultation based on your specific treatment plan.