Peptide weight loss- semaglutide & tirzepatide

Semaglutide and tirzepatide are peptides that mimic important processes in our bodies that regulate insulin production, glucose processing, appetite, and digestion.  These medications suppress your appetite, delay gastric emptying and signal you to feel full faster. When used in conjunction with diet and exercise, they help you achieve significant weight loss.

While both drugs have similar mechanisms of action, there are some key differences such as dosage, side effects and cost to consider before selecting one over the other. 

Semaglutide comes in 5 dosages- 0.25mg, 0.5mg, 1.0mg, 1.7mg, & 2.4mg

Tirzepatide comes in 6 dosages- 2.5mg, 5.0mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 12.5mg, & 15mg

They are both once a week injectable medications that have been shown to significantly promote weight loss. 

*Semaglutide works by  mimicking the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP—1)  that stimulates the release of insulin from the pancreas and inhibits the release of glucagon. This leads to lower blood sugars, reduces the amount of sugar that your liver makes, and slows down digestion which controls your appetite and calorie intake.  

*Tirzepatide takes this a step further by not only mimicking GLP-1 but also another hormone called gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP). This dual action is like having an extra tool in your toolkit. GIP complements the effects of GLP-1, enhancing insulin release and also playing a role in managing how your body stores fat. This combined approach helps improve blood sugar levels more effectively and can promote more significant weight loss compared to drugs that target only the GLP-1 receptor. The addition of GIP action may  offer a broader range of benefits for those struggling with both Type 2 diabetes and weight management.

Another key difference between the two medications is their side effect profiles. While both drugs are generally well-tolerated, semaglutide has been associated with a higher rate of gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. Tirzepatide, on the other hand, has been associated with a higher rate of local injection site reactions.

Patients aged 18+ who have a BMI>/= 30 or BMI >/= 27 with history of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol. These medications are good tools for those who have already tried diet and exercise but are still having difficulty losing weight. 

Contraindications: History of type 1 diabetes, pancreatitis, active gallbladder disease, chronic abdominal pain/ nausea/ vomiting, kidney disease, pregnancy or breastfeeding. Personal or family history of thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2.

First set up a Weight Loss Program consult- I have options for in person at The London Room or virtually, whichever you are more comfortable with. If you do not have any of the above contraindications AND fit BMI criteria, I will need labs to review as the next step. Labs needed include: CMP, TSH, lipid panel, and hemoglobin A1C. Labs done within 6 months by another doctor may be accepted.  

Once I review your labs, if appropriate, I will order your medications—your choice of semaglutide or tirzepatide. You will be able to pick up your meds at the spa OR have them shipped directly to your Florida home for a charge. If you are not comfortable injecting yourself, you can set up injection only visits with me for a $15 charge/visit at The London Room. 

Semaglutide and tirzepatide both need to be titrated from the lowest dose to higher doses slowly to reduce side effects, usually one month at a time. Monthly visits are required in order to check in with you and decide on dosage titration for the subsequent month. You can choose to be an in person patient OR virtual patient.  The price per month varies based on medication dosage and virtual patients will incur $30 shipping charge per month.