It’s the new year, and that means resolutions. But we know that if you have tried and tried again to manage your weight successfully, making that resolution once again can seem hopeless.

It doesn’t have to be! With new weight loss drugs, you can finally get the help you’ve been waiting for. In the first part of our two-part series on weight loss peptides, you can find out all about these amazing new drugs, including how they work and what you can expect from treatment.

Of course, you may have some burning questions before you consider whether GLP-1 peptides like semaglutide and tirzepatide are the right choice for you. And we are here to answer them in part 2.

What are Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?

If you’ve heard of Ozemptic, then you’ve heard of semaglutide. Ozempic is a brand name, and semaglutide is the medication (the same way “Advil” is a brand of ibuprofen). Similarly, tirzepatide is another weight loss peptide that can be found under the brand name Mounjaro.

Semaglutide and tirzepatide are what we call GLP-1 receptor agonists. This class of drugs has been gaining serious attention due to their potential in weight management and diabetes treatment. They are designed to mimic the effects of naturally occurring hormones in your body that regulate blood sugar levels and appetite.

Clinical trials have demonstrated that both compounds can help individuals shed significant pounds when used as part of a comprehensive weight loss program. Additionally, they can improve glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes.

How Semaglutide Works

Semaglutide works by stimulating the GLP-1 receptors in the body. As a result, it slows stomach emptying, and so reduces appetite and increases the feeling of fullness after meals. It also slows down the absorption of glucose from the intestines and increases the natural production of insulin, which lowers blood sugar.

How Tirzepatide Works

Tirzepatide works similarly to semaglutide in that it is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, but it also works as a GIP receptor agonist. As a result, in addition to the effects we just discussed, tirzepatide decreases stomach acid production to further slow digestion. It also increases insulin sensitivity. These combined effects make it an effective tool for weight reduction.

Who Can Benefit from Weight Loss Peptides?

Semaglutide is prescribed to individuals who have been struggling with obesity or with type 2 diabetes, while tirzepatide has been marketed primarily as a weight loss drug but can also have positive effects on those suffering from insulin resistance, pre-diabetes, and type 2 diabetes.

However, you do not need to have type 2 diabetes to benefit from these drugs. They can be extraordinarily helpful for weight loss when traditional weight loss methods haven’t been successful. Most people who are overweight or obese can be considered for candidacy for weight loss peptides.

What to Expect

Sound promising? It is. So, let’s dive into some more detail about Semaglutide and tirzepatide and what treatment looks like.

Treatment and Dosing

These two peptides are typically administered as a subcutaneous injection once a week. The injection can be given with a small insulin needle or with an injection pen (this will depend on your provider’s protocol).

You begin treatment with a very low dose, which is slowly increased over time to minimize side effects. Once you reach your maximum dose (and this can differ between patients), you will typically remain on that dose until you reach your goal weight. At that point, a maintenance dose may be prescribed.

Side Effects of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide

Like any medication, weight loss peptides may have side effects, although not every patient will experience them. Common side effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. These symptoms often subside as your body adjusts to the medication.

As we mentioned, your dosage will be increased slowly so that, if you experience them, side effects can be more easily tolerated. You should communicate any serious side effects with your healthcare provider to ensure proper management.

Is it Time for You to Lose Weight?

We want to be here to help you achieve and maintain your body goals. If you have more questions or are interested in exploring these amazing drugs more, stay tuned. In part 2 of this article we will answer some FAQs about these popular weight loss peptides.

Or, even better, book an appointment with our experienced healthcare professionals. We are so excited to help you finally reach those resolutions for good!