THE USE OF TIRZEPATIDE AND ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH FEMALE HORMONES

Abstract

Introduction: Tirzepatide is a unique molecule, a long-acting agonist drug, highly selective for human GIP (gastric inhibitory peptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptors, for which it exhibits high affinity. GIP and GLP-1 receptors are present in pancreatic α and β endocrine cells and in other regions such as the brain, heart, leukocytes, and kidneys. GIP and GLP-1 are incretin hormones that stimulate insulin secretion and decrease glucagon secretion. Objective: To conduct a systematic review to evaluate the impact of tirzepatide treatment on female hormones in women, investigating whether the changes are related to metabolic improvements or drug-induced weight loss. Methodology: The study was conducted using online databases such as PubMed, SciELO, and Google Scholar, with articles published in the last 5 years and full text available for free as filters. Systematic reviews and articles whose content was not directly related to the proposed theme were excluded. The keywords used for searches were defined after consulting DeCS (Descriptors in Health Sciences), associated with each other according to combinations using the Boolean operator "AND", namely: tirzepatide, gynecology, and women. Results: Seven studies were analyzed, comprising observational studies, case reports, a randomized study, and a preclinical study conducted with mice. Conclusion: Tirzepatide is effective and safe for women, leading to significant changes in sex hormones due to its action in reducing body weight; however, doubts remain about its direct impacts on female hormones and reproductive function. Studies directly evaluating the relationship between tirzepatide and female hormonal parameters, such as ovarian function, menstrual cycle, fertility, and sexual function, are still scarce, reinforcing the need for larger and more controlled studies.