Tirzepatide reference standard: a research overview for Canadian labs
Tirzepatide is a 39-residue dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist. Sequence, half-life implications, and what to verify on a Canadian COA before research use.
Short answer. Tirzepatide is a 39-amino-acid synthetic dual agonist of the GLP-1 and GIP receptors, supplied lyophilized as a research reference standard. Pure North does not currently stock Tirzepatide, within this class the GLP-1-class reference standard Pure North currently stocks is Retatrutide 20 mg (a GLP-1/GIP/glucagon tri-agonist), supplied for laboratory research. See the product page for current pricing and its published report. See the product page.
Sequence and structure
Tirzepatide carries a γGlu-C20 fatty-diacid side chain at Lys20 that drives albumin binding. The dual GLP-1R/GIPR engagement profile distinguishes it pharmacologically from semaglutide (a GLP-1R mono-agonist) and retatrutide (a GLP-1R/GIPR/glucagon-receptor tri-agonist) in receptor-pharmacology terms.
Reference standard quality criteria
- HPLC purity ≥ 99% by reverse-phase analysis at 220 nm, lot-specific.
- ESI-MS confirmation at the theoretical mass of 4813.45 Da ± 0.5 Da.
- Net peptide content ≥ 80% by amino acid analysis (AAA), excluding counter-ion mass.
- Residual TFA < 1.0% from cleavage chemistry.
- LAL endotoxin < 0.5 EU/mg for cell-based assay compatibility.
Common research applications
Comparative research requires documentation appropriate to the selected material and assay. Tirzepatide COA is temporarily unavailable; do not substitute a Retatrutide report for it.
Reconstitution and storage
Allow the lyophilized vial to equilibrate at room temperature before opening. Use a validated, product-specific reconstitution and stability protocol. The manufacturer certificate covers the sealed material and does not establish a universal 28-day in-solution stability period. Protect from light and avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Why source domestically
US bulk imports of GLP-1 class peptides see CBSA examination rates above 20% according to publicly reported customs data, with seizure outcomes for shipments missing import documentation. Domestic Canadian sourcing eliminates that variable entirely. See our customs guide for the full picture.
Tirzepatide is not currently in the Pure North Peptides catalog. Email purenorthpeptides@proton.me if you would like to be notified if it is added in the future, or browse the current catalog →
Frequently asked questions
What is Tirzepatide's molecular weight?
Theoretical mass 4813.45 Da; ESI-MS confirmation should fall within 0.5 Da of that value on a competent COA.
How does Tirzepatide differ from semaglutide?
Tirzepatide is a dual GLP-1R/GIPR agonist; semaglutide is a GLP-1R mono-agonist. The added GIPR engagement produces a distinct downstream signaling profile.
Where can I buy Tirzepatide reference standard in Canada?
Tirzepatide 20 mg is stocked by Pure North Peptides. The GLP-1-class reference standard Pure North currently stocks is Retatrutide 20 mg, supplied for in-vitro research. Both are supplied for in-vitro research; see the Tirzepatide product page.
How is Tirzepatide stored?
Lyophilized, desiccated, sealed under nitrogen. After reconstitution, 2-8 °C for 28 days or −80 °C aliquots for longer.
Is Tirzepatide approved as a drug?
It is supplied strictly as a laboratory reference standard for research use only. Health Canada has not approved it for therapeutic use.
Disclaimer: All Pure North Peptides products are supplied for laboratory research use only. They are not approved by Health Canada as drugs. See our research-use declaration for full terms.
For laboratory research use only. Reference information, not medical advice or human-use guidance.
