What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is the active ingredient found in both Ozempic and Wegovy. These medications have helped millions of people lose weight with never before seen results. Average weight loss of 10-15% of total body weight is often seen in most people taking Semaglutide over the course of treatment.

How does Semaglutide work?

Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. This once weekly injection mimics the GLP-1 hormone that is released in the gastrointestinal tract in response to eating. After you eat a meal, the hormone GLP-1 begins a chain reaction by increasing insulin and lowering glucagon (the hormone responsible for eating) which in turn reduces blood glucose (sugar level). Semaglutide also slows gastric emptying and interacts with the parts of the brain that reduce appetite, signal a feeling of fullness and reduce cravings. The result is a powerful appetite suppressant.

What is Tirzepatide?

Tirzepatide is the active ingredient found in both Mounjaro and Zepbound. Like Semaglutide these medications have helped millions of people lose weight with never before seen results. Average weight loss of 15-20% of total body weight is often seen in most people taking Tirzepatide over the course of treatment.

How does Tirzepatide differ from Semaglutide?

Although both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are similar and are extremely effective in helping people lose weight. Tirzepatide is the first dual action drug in its class. This once weekly injection acts as both a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist and a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonist. GLP-1 and GIP are incretin hormones, which are released after eating. Tirzepatide works by mimicking their effects causing the pancreas to release insulin after eating and signaling the liver to lower the amount of glucose it’s making, which in turn helps lower blood sugar. Tirzepatide slows gastric emptying, decreases food intake and influences fat utilization which leads to weight loss.

It is important to note that both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are prescription medications and a comprehensive medical evaluation is required to determine eligibility. Ideal candidates are those that have a BMI of 30 or greater (obesity) or those with a BMI of 27 and above with a health condition made worse by obesity.

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide cannot be prescribed to anyone with the following:

BMI under 25, eating disorder, gallbladder disease, recent bariatric surgery, pancreatitis, medullary thyroid cancer or family history of MTC, pregnant/trying for pregnancy/breastfeeding, diabetic retinopathy, MEN type 2, Will not be prescribed to those with Diabetes type 1 without consultation with their endocrinologist**