Brenipatide
LY-3537031
Brenipatide (development code LY-3537031) is an investigational, long-acting dual agonist of the GLP-1 and GIP receptors — the same incretin family as tirzepatide. Developed by Eli Lilly, it is in clinical research both for weight management and, more unusually, for conditions involving craving and addiction (e.g. alcohol cravings), because GLP-1 receptors are also present in the brain's reward circuitry. It is not approved by the FDA or EMA.
Key Facts: Brenipatide
Category
Weight Loss & Metabolic
Evidence
Emerging Research
Availability
Research Only
Profile
Research profile
Research Overview & Mechanisms
Brenipatide simultaneously activates two gut-hormone receptors, GLP-1 and GIP. These receptors are involved in appetite regulation, insulin secretion, gastric emptying and energy expenditure — the same dual mechanism used by tirzepatide. The molecule was engineered to resist the enzymes that break down GLP-1 analogues, giving it a longer duration of action. Because GLP-1 receptors are also found in the brain's reward circuitry, brenipatide is additionally being investigated for behaviours linked to craving and addiction — a direction that sets it apart from molecules optimised purely for metabolism.
Reported Research Benefits
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Clinical Evidence
Early-phase clinical trials or strong preclinical data with ongoing human studies.
Regulatory Status
Brenipatide (LY-3537031) is an Eli Lilly molecule designed as a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist with a modified peptide backbone for an extended duration of action. Beyond weight management, it stands out because it is also being studied for reward- and addiction-related conditions (such as alcohol cravings), leveraging the presence of GLP-1 receptors in the brain. The evidence comes from early clinical research and the molecule remains investigational — there is no approved use and definitive outcomes are still pending.
Scientific Sources & Further Reading
Explore peer-reviewed research about Brenipatide:
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