Gastric inhibitory polypeptide

Summary

Gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) is an endogenous incretin hormone secreted by K-cells in the duodenum and jejunum in response to nutrient ingestion. It potentiates glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and plays roles in lipid metabolism, bone remodeling, and energy homeostasis. GIP itself is not used therapeutically as a standalone agent, but dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., tirzepatide) exploit its receptor to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Mechanism of Action

Binds to GIP receptors (GIPR) on pancreatic beta cells to stimulate glucose-dependent insulin secretion; also acts on adipose tissue, bone, and brain. Inhibits gastric acid secretion and gastric motility at pharmacological doses. Promotes fat storage in adipocytes and has anabolic effects on bone.

Routes of Administration

Goals & Uses

• Type 2 diabetes managementEndocrine / MetabolicModerate
• Bone anabolismMusculoskeletalModerate
• Obesity / weight managementMetabolicModerate
• Research tool for incretin biologyResearchHigh
• Augment insulin secretionMetabolicHigh

Contraindications

• Known hypersensitivity to GIP or excipientsAllergicHigh
• Insulinoma or conditions predisposing to hypoglycemiaEndocrineModerate

Adverse Effects

• HypoglycemiaMetabolicUncommonAbnormally low blood glucose
• Injection site reactionsLocalCommon
• NauseaGastrointestinalUncommonFeeling of sickness or urge to vomit
• Increased fat depositionMetabolicUnknown

Drug Interactions

• InsulinModerateMay increase risk of low blood sugar
• SulfonylureasModerateMay increase risk of low blood sugar
• DPP-4 inhibitors (e.g., sitagliptin)Low

Population Constraints

• PregnancyReproductive SafetyRelative
• Renal impairmentOrgan ImpairmentRelative
• Pediatric populationsAgeRelative

Regulatory Status

• European UnionUnapprovedNot approved by EMA as a standalone agent. Recognized as an endogenous hormone of physiological importance.
• United StatesUnapprovedGIP as a standalone therapeutic is not FDA-approved. Used as a research tool only.
• United KingdomUnapprovedNot approved by MHRA as a standalone therapeutic agent.

GIP as an isolated peptide is not approved for therapeutic use. It is used as a research tool. Dual GIPR/GLP-1R agonists like tirzepatide are FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Evidence & Sources

No sources recorded yet.