If you’ve ever tried to lose a significant amount of weight, you know it’s never quite as simple as the antiquated “calories in, calories out” advice. In reality, your energy level, appetite, stressors, hormones, metabolism, and other factors influence how easy or difficult it is to lose excess body fat. When diet and exercise alone aren’t enough, semaglutide/tirzepatide injections overseen by a medical professional could help you achieve a healthy weight.
What Is Semaglutide?
Sold under the brand names Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Rybelsus®, semaglutide is a prescription medication for type 2 diabetes and long-term weight management. Available in injectable and tablet form, this drug works by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) which the body naturally produces to regulate hunger and blood sugar levels.
Semaglutide helps your body produce more insulin when your blood sugar levels are too high. It also works in the GI tract by slowing gastric motility, which means food stays in your stomach longer and prolongs the feeling of fullness. For that reason, it can be a great weight loss aid.
What is Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide is a medication designed to assist with weight management and glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, but it’s unique because it also targets another receptor called GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). This dual-action mechanism enhances insulin secretion, slows digestion, and reduces appetite, making it highly effective for managing blood sugar levels and supporting significant weight loss.
By mimicking natural hormones involved in glucose regulation and appetite control, Tirzepatide helps improve metabolic health. Its benefits extend beyond blood sugar stabilization—it has shown promise in reducing body fat, improving cardiovascular markers, and supporting overall wellness. Administered as a once-weekly injection, Tirzepatide offers a convenient and effective solution for those looking to achieve better health and sustainable weight loss.
Can I Take Semaglutide/Tirzepatide if I Am Not Diabetic?
Semaglutide and tirzepatide were developed as an antidiabetic medication, but you don’t need to have type 2 diabetes to experience the benefits. A randomized controlled trial from 2021 found semaglutide was an effective weight loss drug for overweight and obese non-diabetic adults. It may also lower your risk of obesity-related conditions like heart attack and stroke.
How Do I Use Semaglutide/Tirzepatide for Weight Loss?
Semaglutide can be administered subcutaneously or orally. The dose will vary depending on the brand and the individual. Typically, adults taking Wegovy for chronic weight management inject 2.4 mg once weekly. However, adjustments can be made as needed under medical guidance.
What Should I Do if I Forget a Dose of Semaglutide/Tirzepatide?
While the following recommendations may be helpful, you should ask your provider for specific instructions. If you miss an Ozempic injection, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, you should skip the dose if it’s been more than five days since you missed the injection. If you’re using Wegovy, you can take the missed dose as soon as possible as long as your next dose is more than two days away. Otherwise, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. You shouldn’t double your injections to make up for a missed one.
Missing a dose of Rybelsus works differently. Rather than taking the missed dose as soon as possible, you should skip it and take the next tablet when you usually would. If you’re consistently missing oral doses of semaglutide, it could help to switch to an injectable form.
What Side Effects Can This Medication Cause?
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are safe and effective medication for many people struggling with weight loss or type 2 diabetes management. However, potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heartburn, constipation, or burping.
In rare cases, semaglutide and tirzepatide can cause serious side effects, some of which may require medical attention. That said, adverse reactions are usually limited to mild gastrointestinal upset.
Contact Us About Semaglutide and Tirzepatide
If you’re interested in semaglutide or tirzepatide to help with weight loss, contact our office. Our provider can determine if it’s a good match for you.