Rising global rates of obesity and chronic illnesses demand rapid solutions. While many suffer from such conditions, relying only on a healthy diet and regular exercise may not necessarily yield results for some individuals. Undoubtedly, wholesome food intake and physical activity are game changers. The results are long-lasting if you follow the pattern for months or years. Such challenging times call for rapid and effective weight loss therapies.
Two well-known drugs, Tirzepatide and Semaglutide, have come into the spotlight. Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide: who wins? Research has shown that both medications have demonstrated great potential in supporting weight loss in obese individuals who have type 2 diabetes. However, can other overweight individuals use these medicines? SlimNow MD explains the facts on Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide. You will learn their individualized advantages and considerable aspects.
How Does Semaglutide Work?
Semaglutide is an agonist of the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor. It imitates a natural hormone that controls appetite and blood sugar, resulting in:
- Appetite suppression
- Controlled blood glucose levels
How Does Tirzepatide Work?
Tirzepatide acts as a dual agonist to target:
- Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor
- Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor
This dual action improves appetite suppression and insulin responsiveness, significantly reducing weight.
Clinical Performance
According to recent clinical research, Tirzepatide injections consistently result in more weight loss than Semaglutide. During a 72-week experiment, Semaglutide users lost an average of 13.7% of their body weight. However, Tirzepatide users lost up to 20.2%. Additionally, more Tirzepatide users achieved weight loss milestones of 5%, 10%, and 15% reduction in body weight.
Adverse Reactions
Both drugs frequently result in gastrointestinal side effects, such as:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
The overall rate of adverse effects is often greater for Tirzepatide users. Fortunately, these side effects are often controllable and diminish with time.
Price and Availability
Without insurance coverage, both medications might be expensive.
Tirzepatide is cheaper than Semaglutide injections. We recommend you to speak with your insurance and healthcare providers about financial concerns.
Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide
Features |
Semaglutide |
Tirzepatide |
Type of medication |
GLP-1 receptor agonist |
Dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist |
Average weight loss in 72 weeks |
~13.7% |
~20.2% |
Adverse effects |
Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting |
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation |
Incidence of adverse effects |
~48.6% |
~81% |
Efficiency of mechanism |
Single-hormone targeting |
Dual-hormone targeting |
Monthly cost (approx.) without insurance |
$1,350 |
$1,060 |
The Bottom Line
Tirzepatide has a higher potential for weight loss. However, its effectiveness is accompanied by more adverse effects. Concerns regarding its cost, tolerance, and your personal health objectives can help you make the best decision. Speak with your healthcare professional about weight loss injections.