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The injectable medications semaglutide and tirzepatide offer new hope if you’re struggling with weight management. Both treatments are approved for weight loss and have shown promising results in clinical trials.
At Yorktown Health in Lombard, Illinois, we offer qualifying patients weight loss treatment with these medications. Read on to learn which one might be the better choice for you.
To adequately compare the medications, you need to understand how each works to help you lose weight.
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, originally approved for diabetes management under the brand names Ozempic® and Rybelsus®, and for weight loss as Wegovy®.
It mimics the hormone GLP-1, which regulates appetite and helps control blood sugar levels. By slowing down digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness, semaglutide reduces food intake, aiding in weight loss.
Tirzepatide, sold under the brand name Mounjaro®, is a dual-action medication that targets both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors. This dual effect helps control blood sugar, reduce appetite, and enhance fat loss.
Research shows that tirzepatide’s innovative approach has great potential in both diabetes and weight loss treatments.
Many factors determine which medication is better for you. These include:
In clinical trials, patients using semaglutide for weight loss achieved an average reduction of 10-15% of their body weight over a year. For many people, this was a significant change, often combined with improved blood sugar control.
Tirzepatide users saw even more impressive results, with average weight loss reaching 15-20% of their body weight in some trials. The dual receptor targeting in tirzepatide appears to enhance its effectiveness for weight reduction.
Typically, we administer semaglutide once a week as a subcutaneous injection, and we offer it in different dosing options based on your specific treatment plan.
Also administered weekly, tirzepatide offers flexibility in its dosage, allowing for gradual adjustments based on your personal responses and goals.
Both medications have similar side effects, as they primarily affect the digestive system. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation. Some patients may experience reduced appetite, which can also lead to decreased food intake and, in turn, gastrointestinal side effects.
Tirzepatide users may experience slightly higher rates of nausea due to its dual-action mechanism, though this varies widely among individuals.
Approved specifically for weight loss as Wegovy®, semaglutide is sometimes covered by insurance if we prescribe it for obesity. But out-of-pocket costs can be high if coverage is unavailable.
Since Tirzepatide was initially approved for diabetes management, insurance coverage may be more accessible for diabetic patients. But for weight loss, coverage may vary, and direct costs are also significant.
Choosing between semaglutide and tirzepatide comes down to your personal goals and health considerations.
Both medications are excellent for managing blood sugar if you have diabetes, but tirzepatide’s dual receptor activation may offer added benefits for glucose control alongside weight loss. Semaglutide is also highly effective, especially for those who may prefer a single receptor-targeted approach.
While both options support significant weight reduction, tirzepatide has shown slightly higher results in trials, making it a strong choice if weight loss is your primary goal.
Both treatments have gastrointestinal side effects, but you may find that one suits you better than the other. Gradually increasing the dose according to our recommendations can help minimize these issues.
Coverage varies widely, so check with your insurance provider about what may be covered under your plan. Often, insurance coverage depends on whether the medication is prescribed for diabetes or weight loss specifically.
These medications work best alongside a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and a sustainable lifestyle plan.
If you’re considering one of these treatments, reach out to us at Yorktown Health by phone or use our online tool to book an appointment and find out which option best aligns with your health profile and weight loss goals.