Semaglutide and Tirzepatide
Medication-Assisted Weight Loss Shots
Medication-Assisted Weight Loss Shots
What is Semaglutide?
Originally designed to help lower blood glucose levels in order to reduce the risk of heart attacks in diabetics, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are a revolutionary weight loss drugs that can be perfect for those struggling to lose weight through the traditional routes of diet and exercise.
Semaglutide as a Weight Loss Solution
Semaglutide for weight loss offers rapid weight loss through regular injections of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1), which increases the body’s production of insulin, inhibits glucagon, and decreases appetite. Patients can expect weight loss in the 10lbs. per month range with some losing even more. The more weight a patient has to lose, the faster our Semaglutide weight loss shots work. For those with only 10-20lbs to lose, patients can also add phentermine to assist with removing the last of their stubborn abdominal fat.
Weight loss and mental health are intricately related. One affects the other, which is why at New Pathways we are excited to provide Semaglutide treatments as part of our holistic and comprehensive mental health facility. Our staff is ready to answer your questions about this promising new medication-assisted weight-loss treatment option – reach-out to us for more information.
Watch New Pathways Clinic Discuss Semaglutide Weight Loss Shots!
What is Tirzepatide?
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide produce Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1), but Tirzepatide also produces glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) “that can significantly reduce glycemic levels and improve insulin sensitivity, as well as reducing body weight by more than 20% and improving lipid metabolism.” (Read up on this chemical molecule here). Essentially Tirzepatide is a more complex and effective version of Semaglutide. In a study comparing Tirzepatide and Semaglutide side by side, the following results were found: “Using Tirzepatide resulted in a weight loss of 17.8% (95% CI: 16.3%-19.3%) compared with 12.4% (95% CI: 11.5%-13.4%) for Semaglutide.” (Sackler Faculty of Medicine)
In summary, both of these weight-loss medications are massively effective for weight loss, producing a loss of between 10-25% of body weight, but Tirzepatide is the newest and most effective option. Because of the added complexity in manufacturing, unfortunately Tirzepatide weight loss shots are three times more expensive than Semaglutide to purchase. Until prices of Tirzepatide decrease, it is available at $175 an injection while Semaglutide is $100 an injection.
Our recommendation to our patients who are concerned about cost is to try Semaglutide weight loss shots first, as it will likely give you the results most patients are seeking. Some patients may need to switch to Tirzepatide if they plateau or do not reach their desired results with Semaglutide. Our staff is ready to answer your questions about this promising new medication-assisted weight-loss treatment option – reach-out to us for more information.
You can also read FAQs on Semaglutide and Tirzepatide weight loss shots for deeper understanding.
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide Have The Highest Success Rates of Any Weight Loss Shot or Drug
With a 70% success rate, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide’s results are comparable to receiving bariatric surgery. No other weight loss drug on the market competes with the efficacy of this class of drug or the magnitude of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide’s success.
In a 68-week trial of 1,961 patients with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) or who were overweight (BMI 27 kg/m2-29.9 kg/m2), patients were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to either Semaglutide or a placebo, both in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet (~500 kcal/day deficit) and increased physical activity (recommended to a minimum of 150 min/week).
The average weight loss sustained at 68 weeks:
Semaglutide: 14.9% (~35 lbs)
Placebo: 2.4% (~6 lbs)
Patients who achieved ≥5% weight loss at 68 weeks:
Semaglutide: 83.5% of patients
Placebo: 31.1% of patients
In the trial, ~1 out of every 2 patients achieved ≥15% weight loss
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide Treatment Options at New Pathways Clinic
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide treatments are normally administered through subcutaneous injection, a method of administering the drug with a short, small needle into the tissue layer between the skin and the muscle.
Our injectable weight loss shots are needed every 7 days and are first administered in the clinic and eventually at home if the patient desires and has demonstrated to our medical professionals that they can administer the injections safely on their own. For the first 16 weeks, the drug is introduced slowly into the patient’s system, with week 17 reaching the maximum dosage for maintenance.
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide for Weight Loss – Are They Safe?
As medication-assisted weight loss solutions, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide treatments can produce side effects as well as a few rare contraindications in some individuals. Overall, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide weight loss shots are extremely well-tolerated by the large majority of patients after the body has acclimated to either drug for a few weeks.
Common side effects include:
- Nausea (Most Common)
- Nausea can be reduced with the following:
- Eating smaller meals daily
- Receiving subQ or IM B12 dosed at 500-1000mcg with the weekly Semaglutide injection
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal Cramping
- Constipation
Some specific conditions in which taking Semaglutide may be unsafe include:
- Family or personal history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2
Please talk to your doctor if you are unsure if taking Semaglutide is right for you.
Insurance Coverage and Pricing for Semaglutide and Tirzepatide
A single dose of brand name Semaglutide or Tirzepatide is unaffordable even with insurance coverage. Patients who are pre-diabetic or diabetic are more likely to be covered than those who are not. New Pathways Clinic can help determine if Semaglutide or Tirzepatide would be covered by your insurance.
While the patented injection pen for Semaglutide or Tirzepatide is costly, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide themselves are not nearly as expensive. In addition to being an affordable drug, New Pathways Clinic provides cost-effective access to this treatment by making Semaglutide available for $100 an injection and Tirzepatide $175 an injection, with comprehensive psychiatric and medical support to make this revolutionary treatment accessible.
Choose New Pathways Clinic for Medication-Assisted Weight Loss
Sean Boyd, PMHNP, has experience both in medicine and psychiatry, with a passion for mental health. He is ready to help guide you through this exciting new treatment for weight loss. With his background in Mental Health, Critical Care, Addiction, and Dual Diagnosis, Sean provides comprehensive weight loss solutions to New Pathways patients and members.
Take our True/False quiz to learn if Semaglutide or Tirzepatide weight loss shots can work for your weight-loss needs.
Contact Us
At New Pathways Clinic, we are always sensitive to each patient’s unique history and needs. We will never make you feel uncomfortable or unwelcome in our care. Reach out to us today to find out if Semaglutide or Tirzepatide weight-loss shots are right for you.
Please click the boxes to the right of each question below to learn the answers to these FAQs on Semaglutide and Tirzepatide.
- What are Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?
- What conditions are Semaglutide and Tirzepatide used to treat?
- How does Semaglutide and Tirzepatide work for weight loss?
- What’s the difference between Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?
- Are there side effects to these drugs to be aware of?
- Is Semaglutide or Tirzepatide addictive?
- Once one loses weight with one of these drugs, do they need to remain on them permanently to keep the weight off?
- Can one overdose on Semaglutide or Tirzepatide weight loss shots?
- It’s been said that these drugs were originally designed to help those with Diabetes. Am I taking the drug away from someone with Diabetes by using it at New Pathways Clinic?
- Are Semaglutide and Tirzepatide weight loss shots available over the counter?
- Can Semaglutide or Tirzepatide be used in combination with other medications?
- How long does it take for Semaglutide and Tirzepatide to start working?
- Are there any dietary restrictions or considerations while taking Semaglutide or Tirzepatide?
- Can Semaglutide or Tirzepatide be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
- What is the recommended dosage and duration of treatment for Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) that mimics the action of the natural hormone GLP-1 in the body. GLP-1 is released by the intestines in response to food intake and helps regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin release and reducing glucagon secretion. Semaglutide is administered as an injectable medication.
Tirzepatide is another GLP-1 RA, but it also has a dual action as it simultaneously acts on the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor. GIP is another hormone involved in regulating blood sugar levels after eating. By targeting both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, tirzepatide is designed to provide more potent blood sugar control.
We only prescribe Semaglutide and Tirzepatide for weight loss. However, they both are also used to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Semaglutide is also being studied off-label for alcohol addiction and inflammatory conditions.
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide both produce amazing weight loss results by moderating your digestive process and cravings. Specifically, they are responsible for the following effects:
- Increased sensation of feeling full: Semaglutide acts on the GLP-1 receptors in the brain, specifically the hypothalamus, which regulates appetite and feelings of satiety. By activating these receptors, semaglutide induces a sense of fullness, leading to reduced appetite and decreased food intake.
- Slower Gastric Emptying: GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide also slow down the rate at which the stomach empties its contents into the small intestine. This delay in gastric emptying can contribute to increased feelings of fullness and prolonged satisfaction after eating, further reducing food consumption.
- Reduced Caloric Intake: The combination of increased satiety and slowed gastric emptying results in a decreased desire to eat, and a lower intake of calories overall.
- Weight Set Point Regulation: Semaglutide may also have an impact on the body’s weight set point—the weight range that the body tends to maintain. By influencing the body’s regulatory systems, semaglutide helps shift the weight set point to a lower level, making it easier for some individuals to lose weight and maintain the new lower weight.
They are very similar drugs, used for the same conditions. Tirzepatide is a newer and slightly more effective GLP-1 for weight loss. However, it is also more expensive. We generally recommend patients start on Semaglutide to save money. If Patients max-out on their Semaglutide dosing and have not yet reached their target weight, we will recommend switching to Tirzepatide.
Semaglutide, like any medication, may cause side effects in some individuals. The side effects can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience them. These side effects are usually mild and may improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. We also can provide additional medications to treat them.
Common side effects of semaglutide may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Constipation
No, there is no evidence to suggest that Semaglutide or Tirzepatide are addictive. Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are not classified as addictive substances, nor do they have any known properties that would lead to addiction or dependence.
Weight loss is a complex process influenced by various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and individual metabolism. For many people, maintaining weight loss over the long term can be challenging, regardless of the method used to achieve it – whether through lifestyle changes, medication, or other interventions.
When considering the use of Semaglutide for weight loss, it’s essential to work closely with a healthcare professional who can provide guidance and support throughout the weight loss journey. They can help design a comprehensive plan that includes not only the use of medication but also lifestyle changes, such as adopting a balanced diet, increasing physical activity, and establishing healthy habits.
Yes, both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide can cause overdose if taken in excessive amounts. These medications are prescribed at specific doses based on individual needs and medical conditions. Taking more than the prescribed dose can lead to serious health consequences such as:
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Severe diarrhea
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Dehydration
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
- Severe abdominal pain
If you suspect an overdose or experience any concerning symptoms after taking Semaglutide or Tirzepatide, seek immediate medical attention or visit the nearest emergency room.
No, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are used off-label for weight loss and are provided by a special pharmacy that distributes from a separate supply than what is prescribed to patients with diabetes. The brand name version of Semaglutide – Ozempic – is prescribed for people with diabetes.
No, neither semaglutide nor tirzepatide was available over the counter. Both medications are prescription drugs, meaning you cannot obtain them without a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
Yes. Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are generally safe to use in combination with almost all other medications. They can also be combined with other appetite suppressants for maximum effects. Always inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking before starting Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, or any new medication.
They both work extremely quickly! The effects on the moderation of appetite and digestion will be noticed within hours of receiving the injection. The average amount of weight a patient loses in the first month is around 10lbs. If your appetite is unchanged, you may need a higher dose to get the desired results.
There are no dietary restrictions but we encourage a healthy, well-balanced diet while being on Semaglutide and Tirzepatide. While you do not need to regulate which types of food you eat on these drugs, there are some considerations for how you eat. We would recommend the following:
- Consistent Meal Timing: Both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are GLP-1 receptor agonists, which can affect how the body responds to food. It’s important to have regular meal times and not skip meals, as this can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and minimize the risk of hypoglycemia.
- Balanced Meals: Aim for balanced meals that include a variety of nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. A balanced diet can help support overall health and provide essential nutrients.
- Carbohydrate Intake: Carbohydrates can significantly impact blood sugar levels. Work with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to determine an appropriate carbohydrate intake that matches your individual needs and medication regimen.
- Avoid Skipping Medications: Take Semaglutide or Tirzepatide as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Skipping doses may lead to fluctuating blood sugar levels.
- Alcohol Intake: Be cautious with alcohol consumption, as it can affect blood sugar levels and may interact with certain diabetes medications. Discuss alcohol consumption with your healthcare provider to determine what is safe and appropriate for you.
- Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels as advised by your healthcare provider. This can help you and your doctor make necessary adjustments to your medication and dietary plan as needed.
- Hydration: Stay adequately hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can affect blood sugar levels, so it’s important to drink fluids regularly.
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Both medications are pregnancy category B, which means there may be some animal studies showing no risk to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
It’s essential for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their condition safely. During pregnancy, blood sugar control is crucial for both the health of the mother and for the developing baby and thus it is not recommended, since both drugs affect blood sugar levels.
The duration of and dosage of treatment with Semaglutide and Tirzepatide may vary based on individual health factors as well as the response to the medication. You can work closely with our medical staff to ensure that the treatment plan is tailored to your specific health needs and goals.