Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide: What's the Difference?

Obesity is a complex health issue that is affecting millions worldwide. There are several medications on the market to treat obesity in adults. Two emerging and effective medications available are Semaglutide and Tirzepatide.  We are excited to offer both medications for our patients to help reach their weight loss goals. Let’s discuss the main differences between Semaglutide and Tirzepatide.

What type of drugs are Semaglutide & Tirzepatide?  

Semaglutide is in a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs).

Tirazepatide is in a class of medications called dual incretin receptor agonists, like Semaglutide it acts on GLP 1 receptors, but also glucose- dependent insulinotropic polpypeptide (GIP) receptors.

When were they approved by the FDA?

Semaglutide was originally approved by the FDA in 2017 for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes. It was then approved by FDA for weight loss in 2021.

Tirzepatide was approved by FDA for diabetes in May 2022, and then for weight loss in November 2023.

How do these medications work?

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide work by mimicking the action of the hormone GLP-1, which regulates blood sugar levels, promotes insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon release, and induces feelings of satiety. Tirzepatide is a dual action medication, and also targets the GIP receptors. This mimicks another hormone that promotes insulin release after eating foods, especially food high in sugar and fat.

 Therefore, they both help regulate appetite, reduce food intake, and ultimately facilitate weight loss.

How are these medications given?

Both tirzepatide and semaglutide are injectable drugs administered subcutaneously once a week. Most patients can tolerate giving these injections themselves.

*Medication strengths are titrated individually to help reach your weight loss goals.

What are the side effects?

Common side effects of both medications include nausea, constipation, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal discomfort.

Which medication is right for me?

During your comprehensive weight loss evaluation with one of our knowledgeable nurse practitioners, we will discuss your goals of treatment and determine which medication is right for you. Both tirzepatide and semaglutide are revolutionary medications in treating obesity and encouraging weight loss.  Typically on average, our patients are losing 12-17% of their body weight in the first year!

If you are interested in GAB’s medical weight management program please review our pre-screening requirements online before scheduling a consultation!