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Highlights
- Semaglutide and tirzepatide are both GLP-1 receptor agonists, but tirzepatide has a dual mechanism of action because it also stimulates GIP production.
- Some studies show that tirzepatide is more effective than semaglutide, but this can come with more severe side effects in some individuals.
- When switching from semaglutide to tirzepatide, it is important to consult with a medical provider for a gradual transition.
Sometimes, a prescribed weight loss medication just doesn’t click. Regardless of the results proven by clinical studies and the fact that you’ve been following all the instructions, your experience with semaglutide may not be as significant as you expected. But it doesn’t mean your weight loss journey is over.
If deemed suitable in your situation, a medical provider may consider prescribing another weight loss medicine, such as tirzepatide. Let’s learn more about the process of switching from one to the other and what you need to know before considering it.
How Do Semaglutide and Tirzepatide Differ?
While both semaglutide and tirzepatide can promote weight loss, the ways in which they help achieve these results, their side effects, and some other features differ, which may affect the decision. Below is a more detailed comparison.
Mechanism of Action
Tirzepatide (brand names Zepbound and Mounjaro) and semaglutide (Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy) are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It means they mimic the actions of GLP-1—a hormone produced by the small intestine. Its key roles include triggering the release of insulin, blocking blood sugar spikes, slowing stomach emptying, and increasing fullness after eating.
While semaglutide only mimics the action of GLP-1, tirzepatide also stimulates the production of gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) hormones. That is why it is also known as a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist.
Efficacy for Weight Loss
Tirzepatide is believed to be more potent than semaglutide due to its ability to target both GLP-1 and GIP. In a
In a
Semaglutide is still an effective weight loss medication, though, with trials showing that its injections can yield an average body weight decrease of 14.9% over 68 weeks.
Typical Results Timeline
For both injectable medications, you can expect to feel the changes in your appetite within the first week. Then, you may see the changes on the scale within the first four to six weeks of taking the medication. However, the result depends on different factors, such as the particular medication, adherence to a balanced diet and an activity plan, and health history. It’s essential to have regular follow-up appointments with a clinician to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment as needed.
FDA Approval
Both tirzepatide and semaglutide are FDA-approved for blood sugar control in individuals with type 2 diabetes. However, not all their brand-name options are approved for chronic weight management.
For example, Wegovy (semaglutide)
Typical Dosing
Both weight loss medications are given as weekly injectable doses, but their dosage amounts differ. Semaglutide typically begins with a 0.25 mg weekly dose that slowly increases and can reach up to 2.4 mg per week. As for tirzepatide, it generally starts at 2.5 mg per week and gradually increases up to 15 mg per week.
Typical dosages are provided for informational purposes only. Please consult your healthcare provider and follow their instructions.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
Since these medicines belong to similar classes and have similar mechanisms of action, they also share some common side effects. These include nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. These side effects generally dissipate within the first few weeks of treatment. Given the greater potency of tirzepatide, it may also cause
Both medications have been associated with an increased risk of thyroid tumors, and as such, neither medication is recommended for those with a history of thyroid cancer.
Manufacturer
Novo Nordisk produces Wegovy and Ozempic, the most popular brand-name semaglutide medications. Eli Lilly and Co, on the other hand, produces Zepbound and Mounjaro, tirzepatide brand-name medications.
Why Do People Switch From Semaglutide to Tirzepatide
The decision to change a weight loss medication is not a matter of mere preference. Usually, individuals consider this option when they cannot tolerate the medication, for example, because of side effects. Also, it is a possible solution for those who do not see favorable results while on semaglutide, even though they complement the injections with a reduced-calorie diet and physical activity. In this case, switching to tirzepatide may be a conversation worth having with a healthcare professional because trials have shown that tirzepatide has greater weight loss potential.
There is also an issue of medication shortages: if you are unable to obtain semaglutide, it may be worthwhile discussing with your doctor alternative treatment options, including switching to a different weight loss medication. Finally, sometimes, continuing the same medicine becomes impossible because of health changes, such as comorbid conditions.
What to Consider Before a Transition from Semaglutide to Tirzepatide
As the first step, it’s important to talk to a medical provider to create a smooth transition plan and optimize your weight management process. Aside from other details, remember to consider the following:
- Tapering schedule. Ask your clinician about the best way to stop the medication you are currently taking and the most effective way to start a new one. This process may include a few weeks of dose adjustments.
- Cost. Specifically, semaglutide is more cost-effective than tirzepatide. However, insurance plans may differ in coverage for both medications, which may make one more pocket-friendly.
- Side effects. Tirzepatide may produce more severe side effects than semaglutide. However, individual reactions can vary, so some people may find that they can tolerate tirzepatide better than semaglutide.
Steps to Transition from Semaglutide to Tirzepatide for Weight Loss
The process of changing the medication usually involves the following steps:
- Talk to a healthcare professional. Before starting, stopping, or changing a medication, consult with a licensed medical provider. They will evaluate your health status, current and prior medical history, and your response to semaglutide for weight loss. All this information will help them determine the most suitable course of medication management.
- Follow the instructions. For such a switch, it’s common to receive a gradual transition plan in order to minimize side effects.
- Continue with follow-up appointments. The switching process may come with the new adjustment period and unpleasant adverse reactions—it’s best to discuss this with your clinician. During follow-ups, a healthcare provider will also assess if the medication is working as expected and will be open to discuss any questions or concerns.
Note that booking an appointment doesn’t guarantee obtaining a prescription. The decision is at the discretion of your healthcare provider.
Summing Up
Tirzepatide and semaglutide lead to the same outcomes, such as stimulated insulin secretion, inhibited rise in blood glucose levels, and promoted feelings of satiety. However, some individuals may find one medication more suitable than the other, depending on different factors. At MEDvidi, you can see a licensed healthcare professional to discuss the available options for weight loss treatment and find the best way to achieve your goals.
