What Are Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide
Both of these are injectable medications that help individuals lose weight, but the biggest difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide is they work a bit differently in your body.
When you eat, your body releases hormones that help keep your digestion process running smoothly and your blood sugar levels balanced. One of these hormones is GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), and it is responsible for sending signals to your brain that you are full and regulating your blood sugar by controlling the release of insulin as well as slowing down the rate of digestion.
Both of these medications copy the GLP-1 hormone in your body, but if you are wondering, “Is tirzepatide the same as semaglutide?” The answer is no; while they are similar, there is a difference between these two medications: tirzepatide targets your GLP-1 hormone and also an additional hormone called GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), and semaglutide only mimics the one GLP-1 hormone. Your GIP-1 hormone works with your GLP-1 to help better optimize your metabolism and help your body burn fat more efficiently instead of storing it.
Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide Side Effects
Every type of medication comes with potential side effects, and prescription weight loss injections are no exception. When comparing tirzepatide side effects vs semaglutide, they share many similarities.
The side effects of these medications include:
- Nausea;
- Vomiting;
- Constipation;
- Diarrhea;
- Some individuals experience low blood sugar when using tirzepatide.
Some rare side effects are also possible, which can include:
- Kidney issues;
- Changes in vision;
- Pancreatitis;
- An allergic reaction;
- Issues with the gallbladder.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Semaglutide And Tirzepatide?
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are not suitable for everyone, and they should not be used by anyone who:
- Is pregnant, breastfeeding, or is planning to become pregnant in the near future;
- Has a family history of MTC (medullary thyroid cancer) MEN2 (multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2);
- Is allergic to any of the ingredients contained in these medications;
- Has chronic GI issues or a history of issues with the kidneys or pancreas.
Is Tirzepatide Better Than Semaglutide For Weight Loss?
When paired with a low-calorie diet, exercise, and other healthy lifestyle changes, both medications can lead to substantial weight loss, but tirzepatide might work better for certain people because it mimics the additional GIP hormone.
The average weight loss experienced by patients using semaglutide is anywhere between 10% and 16% of their starting body weight, while patients using tirzepatide lose an average of between 15% and 21% of their starting body weight.
The best way to decide which medication would work best for you and your situation is to consult with a knowledgeable weight loss expert, like Dr. Angelina Postoev and the team at MySlimMed. They will assess your needs and circumstances and determine the best medication and weight loss plan to help you achieve sustainable weight loss.
Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide Dosage For Weight Loss
Both semaglutide and tirzepatide work through self-administered injections that are taken once a week. Because of the common side effects associated with these medications, they use a specific dosing schedule that starts at the lowest dose, which gradually increases in strength over the course of several months to give your body time to adjust and keep side effects to a minimum.
Tirzepatide vs semaglutide are two different medications, and even though they have a similar staggered dosage schedule, it takes a bit longer to reach the highest dose of tirzepatide. If needed, the experts at MySlimMed can help you determine the tirzepatide semaglutide equivalent dose that will work best if you are switching from one medication to the other.
to see the entire table
| Tirzepatide Dose | Semaglutide Dose | |
|---|---|---|
| Month 1 | 2.5 mg | 0.25 mg |
| Month 2 | 5 mg | 0.5 mg |
| Month 3 | 7.5 mg | 1 mg |
| Month 4 | 10 mg | 1.7 mg |
| Month 5 | 12.5 mg | 2.4 mg |
| Month 6 | 15 mg | – |
One thing that is important for you to know is that you may not need to move up to the highest dose of the medication during your weight loss journey. Your progress will be monitored, and your dose will be escalated until your body begins to respond to the medication. Your doctor may choose to leave you on that dose as long as your weight loss is consistent and then move you to the next level when you hit a weight loss plateau.
What Is The Price Difference Between Semaglutide And Tirzepatide?
The cost of tirzepatide vs semaglutide can vary a great deal or can be minimal or even the same depending on where you live, the pharmacy you are using, and whether you are purchasing a compounded or name-brand version.
The cost of these medications can change in response to market conditions and the dose strength you are purchasing. The average cost for a one-month supply of name-brand tirzepatide and semaglutide ranges from between $1,200 and $1,300 for a one-month supply. At MySlimMed, compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide range from $275 to $499 a month for subscribers.
How To Choose Between Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide
To find the right medication for you, it is important to work with a doctor like Dr. Angelina Postoev and her team at MySlimMed, who have extensive experience in medical weight loss. They will take a close look at your medical history, weight loss goals, and any challenges you have faced in the past. They can determine whether tirzepatide vs semaglutide will be the best choice for you and will create a personalized plan to help you achieve lasting results.
Some individuals might benefit more from tirzepatide because of its extra GIP hormone, and others may wish first to try semaglutide to lessen the risk of possible side effects.
Does Tirzepatide Work Better Than Semaglutide?
Both medications may be a good choice for you, and it depend on many things. If you are one of the people who need a stronger type of medication to trigger weight loss, tirzepatide may work best for you, but if you are prone to side effects, you may find the side effects are more intense. In that case, you may wish to try semaglutide since it only mimics one hormone and not two.
The team of professionals at MySlimMed can help you decide which medication will benefit you the most with the least number of side effects. They will help you figure out if semaglutide or tirzepatide will work best for your specific circumstances.
Contact MySlimMed Today To Learn More
If you are not a good candidate for these medications, Dr. Angelina can discuss other medical interventions that are safe and effective. Some individuals are good candidates for a gastric balloon or endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty, which are two non-surgical options. Both of these procedures reduce the amount of food your stomach can hold and help control your portions without incisions or a hospital stay.
If you are feeling frustrated and tired of struggling to lose weight on your own, MySlimMed is here to help. Their team will work with you to find the best option for your needs and create a personalized treatment plan that gives you the support and tools to take control of your weight and improve your health. We offer the convenience of in-person or virtual consultations, so book yours today and get started on the path to better health.
