Semaglutide vs tirzepatide: how the two weight loss medications compare

Semaglutide and tirzepatide are the two medications patients ask about most when they call us about medical weight loss. They are related, but they are not the same. This comparison will help you walk into a consultation with better questions.

How each one works

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It acts on one hormone pathway involved in appetite and fullness.

Tirzepatide is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. It acts on two hormone pathways involved in appetite and blood sugar regulation.

Both are once-weekly injections, and both start at a low dose that is increased gradually.

What the research shows

In large clinical trials, adults taking semaglutide alongside lifestyle changes lost around 15 percent of their body weight on average over about 68 weeks. In trials of tirzepatide, average weight loss at the highest dose was around 20 percent over about 72 weeks. These were separate studies with different participants, and averages do not predict any one person's result. Some people respond well to one medication and not the other.

Side effects

The side effect profiles are similar. The most common are nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and reduced appetite, usually when the dose increases. Slow dose changes and good hydration and protein intake help. Neither medication is appropriate for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN2, and both call for caution with a history of pancreatitis or gallbladder disease.

How we help you choose

There is no universally better option. At your consultation, Tanja Pittman, DNP, APRN, CNP looks at:

• Your health history and current medications

• How much weight you want to lose and your timeline

• How you have tolerated medications in the past

• Budget, since pricing differs between the two
  

Then she monitors your progress and adjusts. If one medication is not a fit, the plan changes.

Getting started in Mustang

We see patients from Mustang, Yukon, Edmond, and across the Oklahoma City metro, in person or by telehealth. Programs start as low as $200 per month. Read more about our medical weight loss program or meet Tanja.

Book a consultation in Mustang

The Aesthetics Place MedSpa is at 543 E State Hwy 152, Suite 105, Mustang, OK 73064. We see patients by appointment, Monday through Friday, 11am to 5pm. Call (405) 256-6060 or book a treatment online.

This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Treatments are provided only after a consultation with a licensed provider. Individual results vary.