Tirzapetide (Zepbound/Mounjaro)
Tirzepatide is FDA-approved for weight loss in adults with obesity or those who are overweight and have weight-related health conditions.
Tirzepatide is the first dual-action medication that works by mimicking the body’s natural GLP-1 and GIP hormones to help regulate metabolism, blood sugar, and appetite. By promoting a feeling of fullness more quickly and for longer periods, it effectively supports weight loss.
Effectiveness: Clinical trials show that tirzapetide significantly improves blood sugar control and supports substantial weight loss—averaging 15–21% of body weight over 72 weeks in individuals with obesity.
Side Effects:The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite, and they usually improve over time. Rare but serious risks include pancreatitis, thyroid tumors, gallbladder disease, severe allergic reactions, low blood sugar, kidney injury, vision changes, and mood changes. Tirzepatide may also reduce the effectiveness of birth control.
Semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic)
Semaglutide is a prescription GLP-1 medication approved for treating type 2 diabetes and supporting long-term weight management in eligible individuals.
Administration: Semaglutide is administered once weekly using a very small insulin needle. The injection is placed under the skin in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, providing a quick, comfortable, and easy experience.The dosage starts low and increases gradually to minimize side effects.
Effectiveness: It is highly effective for weight loss, with studies showing average reductions of 12–15% of body weight in a year, and many individuals achieving over 20%—far greater than placebo.
Safety and Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.
These side effects are often temporary and tend to diminish as the body adjusts to the medication. Rare but serious side effects include pancreatitis and potential thyroid tumors. Semaglutide may also reduce the effectiveness of birth control.
Contraindications: It is contraindicated in patients with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), and generally not recommended during pregnancy