Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus) and Tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro), initially developed to lower blood glucose levels and reduce the risk of heart attacks in diabetes, are groundbreaking weight loss medications that may be ideal for individuals facing challenges with traditional methods of diet and exercise for weight loss.
Semaglutide a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) and is a medication that can help with weight loss by mimicking the action of a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). GLP-1 is realeased by the intestines in response to eating food, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. It is administered as an injectable medication and works by increasing insulin production, inhibiting glucagon, and decreasing appetite.
Patients can expect weight loss of around 10lbs per month, with some experiencing even greater results. The more weight a patient has to lose, the faster semaglutide works. For those with only 10-20lbs to lose, other medications can also be added to assist with removing stubborn abdominal fat.
Tirzepatide is a GLP-1 RA that also targets the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor, another hormone involved in regulating blood sugar levels after eating. By acting on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, tirzepatide is designed to provide stronger blood sugar control and has been shown to significantly reduce glycemic levels, improve insulin sensitivity, improve lipid metabolism, and reduce body weight by more than 20%. In a study comparing Tirzepatide to Semaglutide, a study found that Tirzepatide resulted in a greater weight loss of 17.8% compared to 12.4% for Semaglutide. Essentially, Tirzepatide is a more complex and effective version of Semaglutide.
In summary, both of these weight-loss medications are greatly effective for weight loss, but Tirzepatide is the newest and most effective option. Because of the added complexity, unfortunately Tirzepatide weight loss shots are three times more expensive than Semaglutide to purchase.
We suggest starting with Semaglutide weight loss shots as they are more cost-effective and likely to provide the desired results for the majority of patients. If needed, patients can consider switching to Tirzepatide if they do not achieve their desired weight loss with Semaglutide, reach a plateau in their weight loss, or have side effects to Semaglutide. Our team is available to provide more information and answer any questions about this innovative weight-loss treatment option.
We only prescribe Semaglutide and Tirzepatide for weight loss treatment. However, both are also used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, Semaglutide is undergoing research for off-label use in treating alcohol addiction and inflammatory conditions.
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide both produce remarkable effects on weight loss by affecting your digestive process and cravings. Specifically, they are responsible for the following:
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide have a 70% success rate, which is comparable to receiving bariatric surgery. There is no other weight loss drug available that can match the efficacy or the magnitude of of this class of drug.
Semaglutide was studied in a 68-week long study of 1,961 patients with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) or who were overweight (BMI 27 kg/m2-29.9 kg/m2), were randomized to either Semaglutide or a placebo, both in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet (~500 kcal/day deficit) and increased physical activity (recommended to a minimum of 150 min/week).
The average weight loss sustained at 68 weeks:
Semaglutide: 14.9% (~35 lbs)
Placebo: 2.4% (~6 lbs)
Patients who achieved ≥5% weight loss at 68 weeks:
Semaglutide: 83.5% of patients
Placebo: 31.1% of patients
In the trial, ~1 out of every 2 patients achieved ≥15% weight loss
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide treatments are normally administered through subcutaneous injection, using a short, small, thin needle into the tissue layer between the skin and the muscle.
These injectable weight loss treatments are administered once a week. Patients will be provided training on how to perform the inections. For the first 16 weeks, the medication dose is slowly increased, with week 17 reaching the maximum dosage for maintenance.
For those that do not tolerate injections, oral semaglutide options are available.
As with any medication, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide treatments can cause potential side effects, and also has a few rare contraindications. Overall, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide weight loss injections are very well-tolerated by the large majority of patients after the body has adjusted to either medication for a few weeks.
Common side effects may include:
Some specific conditions in which taking Semaglutide may be unsafe or contraindicated include:
Please talk to your doctor if you are unsure if taking Semaglutide is right for you.
Losing weight can be a complex process as it is influenced by a variety of factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and individual metabolism. Additionally, many people find it challenging to maintain weight loss over the long term, no matter the method used to achieve it, whether through lifestyle changes, medication, or other interventions.
It is important to collaborate with a doctor when contemplating the use of Semaglutide or Tirzepatide for weight loss. Your doctor can offer guidance and support throughout the weight loss journey, helping to design a comprehensive plan that includes medication use alongside lifestyle changes like adopting a balanced diet, increasing physical activity, and establishing healthy habits.
Yes, both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide can cause overdose if taken in excessive amounts. These medications are prescribed at specific doses based on individual needs and medical conditions. Taking more than the prescribed dose can lead to serious health consequences such as:
If you suspect an overdose or experience any concerning symptoms after taking Semaglutide or Tirzepatide, seek immediate medical attention or visit the nearest emergency room.
Yes. Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are generally safe to use in combination with almost all other medications. They can also be combined with other appetite suppressants for maximum effects. Always inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking before starting Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, or any new medication.
They both work extremely quickly! The effects on reducing appetite and digestion will be noticed within hours of receiving the injection. The average amount of weight a patient loses in the first month is around 10lbs. If your appetite is unchanged, you may need a higher dose to get the desired results.
There are no dietary restrictions but we encourage a healthy, well-balanced diet while being on Semaglutide and Tirzepatide. While you do not need to regulate which types of food you eat on these drugs, there are some considerations for how you eat. We would recommend the following:
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
It’s essential for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their condition safely. During pregnancy, blood sugar control is crucial for both the health of the mother and for the developing baby and thus it is not recommended, since both drugs affect blood sugar levels.
The duration of and dosage of treatment with Semaglutide and Tirzepatide may vary based on individual health factors as well as the response to the medication. You can work closely with Dr. Kim to ensure you have a tailored treatment plan for your specific health needs and goals.