Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are medications used for weight loss and glycemic control. Both are highly effective in helping individuals lose significant amounts of weight by targeting specific hormones in the body.

• Semaglutide: A GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics the natural hormone GLP-1. This hormone regulates appetite and insulin secretion, making it easier to reduce calorie intake and improve blood sugar control.
• Tirzepatide: A dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. By targeting both receptors, Tirzepatide provides superior appetite control and helps improve how the body processes insulin, leading to enhanced weight loss and better metabolic health.

These medications make it easier to stick to a healthy diet and help manage blood sugar levels, which is especially beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.

Both drugs work by regulating appetite and glucose metabolism. They help individuals feel fuller faster and for longer periods by slowing the rate at which food leaves the stomach. Additionally, they influence certain hormones to help regulate food intake and body weight.

• Semaglutide can reduce body weight by up to 15% in clinical trials.
• Tirzepatide has shown even greater results, with some studies reporting up to 20% weight loss.

Ideal candidates for these medications include:

• Adults with a BMI of 30 or greater (obese).
• Adults with a BMI of 27 or greater (overweight) who have at least one weight-related medical condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.
• People struggling with type 2 diabetes who need to better control their blood sugar levels.
• Individuals who have tried diet and exercise alone but have not achieved significant, sustained weight loss.

However, these medications are not suitable for:

• People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma.
• Those with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2).
• Individuals with a history of severe gastrointestinal conditions, such as gastroparesis.

• Significant weight loss: Both medications have demonstrated impressive results in clinical trials, often outperforming traditional weight loss methods.
• Improved blood sugar control: Especially for individuals with type 2 diabetes, these medications help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
• Reduced appetite: Patients often report feeling fuller with smaller meals, leading to a reduced overall caloric intake.
• Improved cardiovascular health: Weight loss and better glycemic control can lead to reductions in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall cardiovascular risk.
• Convenience: Both medications are administered once weekly via subcutaneous injection, making them easy to incorporate into a routine.

• Nausea: This is the most commonly reported side effect, especially when starting treatment or increasing dosage. The good news is that it typically subsides over time.
• Vomiting and diarrhea: These gastrointestinal issues can occur but usually decrease with continued use.
• Constipation.
• Injection site reactions: Mild redness or discomfort at the injection site is possible.

Serious side effects are rare but include:

• Pancreatitis: Watch for symptoms like severe stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Kidney issues: Dehydration from side effects like vomiting or diarrhea can affect kidney function, especially in those with preexisting conditions.
• Thyroid tumors: In rare cases, GLP-1 medications have been linked to thyroid cancer, hence why those with a family history of certain thyroid conditions are not good candidates.

Weight loss with Semaglutide or Tirzepatide is generally gradual. Most patients start noticing changes within 4 to 8 weeks, with more significant results over 12 to 24 weeks. Blood sugar control may improve within the first few weeks.

Yes! Both medications are FDA-approved for weight loss in individuals without type 2 diabetes but who meet the weight or BMI requirements. Semaglutide (Wegovy) is specifically approved for weight management, while Tirzepatide, though currently only approved for diabetes, is commonly prescribed off-label for weight loss.

You’ll likely notice the medication working if you:

• Experience reduced hunger or an earlier sense of fullness.
• Begin losing weight consistently over time.
• See improvements in blood sugar levels if you have diabetes.

Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress through weight measurements, blood sugar levels, and possibly lab tests to ensure you’re responding well to the treatment.