Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide: Which is best for weight loss?
8/14/2023
Both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are generic compounded medications in the GLP-1 family and both have been shown to help with weight loss.
What is Semaglutide?
In case you missed it, we previously took an in-depth look at the med in Semaglutide: science and side effects. Here’s a quick recap:
- Semaglutide belongs to a class of peptides known as GLP-1 antagonists.
- GLP-1s work by increasing insulin production, slowing down stomach emptying, and acting on the brain to reduce appetite and cravings.
- In studies, Semaglutide shows an average change in body weight of -15.2%.
- Common side effects include nausea, constipation, and indigestion.
What is Tirzepatide?
Like Semaglutide, Tirzepatide is a generic compounded medication and is in the same class as other GLP-1s. Tirzepatide’s formula resembles that of Eli Lilly’s, Mounjaro®. It gained FDA approval in 2022 as a once-weekly injectable treatment for adults with type 2 diabetes but has also been prescribed off-label for weight loss. Like other GLP-1s, Tirzepatide works to stimulate insulin secretion and reduce glucagon levels while also delaying gastric emptying, lowering glucose concentration, decreasing food intake, and reducing body weight in patients.
Tirzepatide is prescribed off-label for weight loss. It has the same mechanism of action, risks, and side effects as other GLP-1s.
What makes Tirzepatide different?
While Semaglutide mimics one hormone, GLP-1, Tirzepatide is the first to mimic GLP-1 and a second hormone, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). Along with reducing appetite, GIPs improve how the body breaks down sugar and fat for even greater weight loss results. In clinical trials, patients taking Tirzepatide lost up to 22.5% of their body weight. However, the second hormone comes with a cost. In higher doses, Tirzepatide is roughly double the price of Semaglutide.
Patients lost more body weight with Tirzepatide compared to Semaglutide, but it also costs more.
Which medication is best for me?
At Skintastic, we have seen amazing weight loss results with both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide, and their side effects are similar. The deciding factor when choosing between the medications usually comes down to how much weight loss is desired. Semaglutide may be more cost-effective for clients looking to lose 30 lbs. or less. The good news is that since Tirzepatide and Semaglutide are very similar, clients can switch from one med to the other without adverse reactions. Ultimately, we recommend a consultation with a licensed practitioner to discuss the benefits and limitations before starting any weight loss medication.