​Semaglutide and Tirzepatide What's the Difference?

​Semaglutide and Tirzepatide belong to different drug classes.

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which stands for glucagon-like peptide-1. It mimics a hormone your gut already produces, which helps regulate appetite and blood sugar levels.  Semaglutide slows food movement through your stomach, makes you feel fuller for longer, helps your liver regulate sugar production, and even impacts the brain to reduce cravings.  Semaglutide you may be able to reduce the side effects by beginning on a lower dose and then slowly increasing the amount you take.

Tirzepatide is a dual agonist acting on both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors. This dual action can make Tirzepatide more effective in lowering blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss. Adding GIP helps enhance the effects of GLP-1, providing a more comprehensive approach to managing diabetes and obesity.

Efficacy in Weight Loss
Both medications are used for weight management, but Tirzepatide has shown slightly higher effectiveness. Studies generally report a weight loss of about 15-16% of initial body weight with Semaglutide, while Tirzepatide can result in a 14-18% reduction. In clinical practice, Tirzepatide often leads to greater weight loss, which can be a deciding factor for individuals focused primarily on losing weight.

Side Effects
Both drugs have common side effects related to the gastrointestinal system. Because both medications slow gastric emptying, they can cause nausea, vomiting, and digestive discomfort.

Semaglutide users might experience more pronounced side effects due to its sole GLP-1 action,  Our It's  important to manage side effects by beginning on a lower dose and then slowly increasing the amount you take.

Typically, Tirzepatide users report fewer severe side effects compared to those on Semaglutide but should also begin on a lower dose slowly increasing the amount every four weeks. 

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You should not use this medication if you have:

History of medullary thyroid cancer
History of gallbladder disease
History of pancreatitis
Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)​

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Our experienced professionals can help you decide which medication is best for you taking into consideration your medical history, potential side effects, cost and weight loss goals. Schedule your appointment to see if Medical weight loss is right for you.