If you’ve ever tried to lose a significant amount of weight, you know it’s never quite as simple as the antiquated “calories in, calories out” advice. In reality, your energy level, appetite, stressors, hormones, metabolism, and other factors influence how easy or difficult it is to lose excess body fat. When diet and exercise alone aren’t enough, semaglutide or tirzepatide injections overseen by a medical professional could help you achieve a healthy weight.
What Is Semaglutide?
Sold under the brand names Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Rybelsus®, semaglutide is a prescription medication for type 2 diabetes and long-term weight management. Available in injectable and tablet form, this drug works by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), which the body naturally produces to regulate hunger and blood sugar levels.
Semaglutide helps your body produce more insulin when your blood sugar levels are too high. It also works in the GI tract by slowing gastric motility, which means food stays in your stomach longer and prolongs the feeling of fullness. For that reason, it can be a great weight loss aid.
What Is Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide is a newer medication also used for managing type 2 diabetes and aiding in weight loss. It is sold under the brand name Mounjaro™. Tirzepatide works by mimicking two hormones, GLP-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), which help regulate appetite, insulin production, and blood sugar levels. By targeting these two pathways, tirzepatide can be highly effective in reducing body weight and improving glycemic control.
Can I Take Semaglutide or Tirzepatide if I Am Not Diabetic?
Both semaglutide and tirzepatide were initially developed as antidiabetic medications, but you don’t need to have type 2 diabetes to experience their benefits. A randomized controlled trial from 2021 found semaglutide was an effective weight loss drug for overweight and obese non-diabetic adults. Similarly, studies have shown tirzepatide to be highly effective for weight loss in non-diabetic individuals as well. These medications may also lower your risk of obesity-related conditions like heart attack and stroke.
How Do I Use Semaglutide or Tirzepatide for Weight Loss?
Semaglutide can be administered subcutaneously or orally, with doses varying depending on the brand and the individual. Typically, adults taking Wegovy for chronic weight management inject 2.4 mg once weekly. Tirzepatide is administered via subcutaneous injection, with dosing and frequency determined by your healthcare provider based on individual needs and treatment response.
What Should I Do if I Forget a Dose?
For semaglutide:
- If you miss an Ozempic injection, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, you should skip the dose if it’s been more than five days since you missed the injection.
- If you’re using Wegovy, you can take the missed dose as soon as possible as long as your next dose is more than two days away. Otherwise, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
- For Rybelsus, skip the missed dose and take the next tablet when you usually would. If you’re consistently missing doses, it could help to switch to an injectable form.
For tirzepatide:
- Consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions if you miss a dose, but generally, you should take the missed dose as soon as possible unless it’s close to your next scheduled dose. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
What Side Effects Can These Medications Cause?
Both semaglutide and tirzepatide are safe and effective for many people struggling with weight loss or type 2 diabetes management. Potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heartburn, constipation, or burping.
In rare cases, these medications can cause serious side effects, some of which may require medical attention. However, adverse reactions are usually limited to mild gastrointestinal upset.
Contact Us About Semaglutide and Tirzepatide
If you’re interested in semaglutide or tirzepatide to help with weight loss, contact our office. Our provider can determine if these medications are a good match for you.
