Written By
Monji
| Reviewed By
Justin Allen, M.D.
| Updated at
Nov 14, 2023
| Category
Compound medication
What’s the Difference Between Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are both types of GLP-1 medications, but they have distinct mechanisms that affect how they work:
Semaglutide: This GLP-1 receptor agonist helps manage blood sugar levels, control appetite, and slow digestion, making it effective for both type 2 diabetes and weight loss¹.
Tirzepatide: A dual agonist, Tirzepatide activates both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors, which may lead to more substantial blood sugar control and weight loss².
Effectiveness: How Do They Compare?
Clinical studies suggest that Tirzepatide may result in greater weight loss and improved blood sugar control compared to Semaglutide due to its dual mechanism³. Your response to each medication depends on factors like your medical history, metabolism, and health goals.
Side Effects to Consider
Both medications may cause side effects such as nausea, reduced appetite, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Tirzepatide’s dual action may lead to stronger gastrointestinal effects for some individuals⁴. The Measured team will work with you to manage side effects and ensure you’re comfortable with your treatment plan.
Dosing and Administration
Both medications are administered as once-weekly subcutaneous injections, but dosing schedules may vary based on individual needs⁵. Your Measured provider will tailor the dosage to suit your health profile and treatment objectives.
Choosing the Right GLP-1 for You
At Measured, we carefully evaluate each patient’s medical history, health goals, and response to treatment to determine whether Semaglutide or Tirzepatide is the best fit. Whether you’re focused on weight loss, blood sugar control, or both, we’re here to guide you in selecting a medication that aligns with your unique needs and lifestyle.
Sources
American Diabetes Association. "GLP-1 Receptor Agonists." Available at: diabetes.org.
Harvard Health Publishing. "Dual-acting Weight Loss Medications: What You Need to Know." Available at: health.harvard.edu.
National Library of Medicine. "Tirzepatide: A Novel Dual GIP and GLP-1 Receptor Agonist for Treating Type 2 Diabetes." Available at: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
Mayo Clinic. "GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: Side Effects and Considerations." Available at: mayoclinic.org.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). "Managing Diabetes with GLP-1 Receptor Agonists." Available at: cdc.gov.
