Understanding Weight Loss Medications: Are They Right for You?

More than half of American adults expressed their desire to lose weight last year alone. 

Weight loss medications aren’t a new concept. Medical providers have been using drugs since the early 20th century, but over the years, these medications have evolved, having fewer side effects and providing superior results. 

Today, semaglutide (commonly known as Wegovy® or Ozempic®) and tirzepatide (sold under names like Mounjaro® or Zepbound®) offer hope to many chronic dieters who need help safely and effectively losing weight. 

Our experts at North Tex MedCare Clinic & Urgent Care, with offices in Allen, Addison, Fort Worth, and San Antonio, Texas, offer semaglutide and tirzepatide to patients with a BMI over 27 who struggle with weight loss. If you want to learn more, read on as our experts explain how these medications work, what results you can expect, and who’s a good candidate for them.

How semaglutide and tirzepatide help you lose weight

Semaglutide and tirzepatide are both GLP-1 receptor agonists, a class of medications that mimic the hormone GLP-1, which regulates appetite and insulin. 

Semaglutide increases insulin production, slows down your digestion, and, as a consequence, reduces appetite. You’ll feel fuller for longer and won’t have the urge to eat as many calories. 

Tirzepatide targets GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors, increasing insulin sensitivity and providing a stronger appetite suppression effect. Tirzepatide is slightly more effective than semaglutide at reducing body weight. 

Weight loss medication safety

You may wonder if these medications are safe, especially in the long run. Studies have repeatedly shown that both semaglutide and tirzepatide are safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects are nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort. 

How much weight can you lose on semaglutide and tirzepatide?

According to research, on average, patients using semaglutide can lose around 14% of their body weight on a long-term treatment plan, while patients using tirzepatide can lose up to 21% of their body weight.

Find out if you are a good candidate for weight loss medications 

Weight gain and weight loss aren’t the same for everyone. Typically, patients who struggle to lose weight also have their hunger hormones and their insulin disrupted. Semaglutide and tirzepatide help with both. 

In other words, stop blaming yourself for not having your body lose weight in a way you would like to. Most people struggle with losing weight, and it’s not always a willpower problem. 

Sometimes, your hormones work against you, and the best way to make them work for you is to seek medical help. 

If you aren’t pregnant or breastfeeding and struggle to lose weight, contact us to schedule an appointment. Our providers will examine you and tell you if you are a good candidate for weight loss medications.