Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide
The medical weight loss field has experienced a great deal of excitement with the recent emergence of two new treatments: Semaglutide and Tirzepatide. Originally developed to combat diabetes, both compounds have shown impressive results helping with weight loss. Let’s look at each medication to consider their similarities and differences as it applies to medical weight loss. Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide.
Similarities
- Appetite Suppression: A major feature of both medications is their ability to regulate appetite. By interacting with specific receptors in the body, they slow down gastric motility which creates a sense of fullness, causing individuals to consume fewer calories, which can lead to faster weight loss.
- Impressive Weight Reduction: Clinical trials have shown that both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide can lead to remarkable weight loss. In many cases, they outperform other weight loss medications in terms of the percentage of total weight lost.
- Both medications are administered via injection, ensuring a direct and efficient route into the bloodstream. Semaglutide also comes in an oral version.
- Both weight loss medications share the potential for similar side effects which can range from mild to severe.The potential mild to moderate side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Heart burn and Reflux
- Indigestion
- Abdominal pain.
Less common, but more serious side effects can include:
- Pancreatitis
- Hypoglycemia
- Allergic reactions (rash, facial swelling, trouble breathing, fainting, rapid heartbeat)
- Kidney failure
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Vision changes
- Gallbladder issues (stomach pain, fever, jaundice, discolored stool)
Differences
- Mechanism of Action: Semaglutide predominantly functions as a GLP-1 agonist, targeting specific pathways to facilitate its effects. In contrast, Tirzepatide functions by a dual action, acting both as a GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. This combination might offer a more comprehensive approach to metabolism and weight control.
- Weight Loss Efficacy: recent studies suggest a slight advantage in weight loss potential using Tirzepatide. With its dual action, Tirzepatide appears to offer superior weight loss results for many individuals, though responses can vary.
- Tolerability and Side Effects: Both medications might present with gastrointestinal side effects, like nausea, constipation or an upset stomach. However, the intensity and prevalence of these effects can differ, with some individuals tolerating one drug better than the other. Our experience leads us to believe that Tirzepatide’s side effect profile is gentler for many patients.
Contraindications
You are NOT a good candidate for Semaglutide or Tirzepatide if you have any of the following:
- diabetic retinopathy
- low blood sugar
- decreased kidney function
- pancreatitis
- medullary thyroid cancer (or a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma)
- Family or personal history of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2 (MEN Type 2)
Summary and Cost Concerns
Both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide have changed the medical weight loss landscape. For many, the downside can be the cost. Retail cash prices of both drugs have ranged from $1000 to $1300 PER month according to GoodRx, but fortunately, the maker of Tirzepatide has recently lowered the price of some dosages for cash-pay clients. That doesn’t include medical provider visits or nutritional counseling and support. Some patients are fortunate enough to have their insurance companies foot the bill, or at least some of it.
Learn2Lose has specialized in medical weight loss since 2006. Learn more about Semaglutide and Tirzepatide and get started on your weight loss journey!
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⁜ The information provided on this website is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance. We are not affiliated with, nor endorsed by, Novo Nordisk® or Eli Lilly and Company®.
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