There has been a lot of buzz in the weight loss space with the emergence of medications like tirzepatide and semaglutide. But what’s the deal with tirzepatide vs. semaglutide? Let’s dive into the details.
At a basic level, tirzepatide, also known as Mounjaro and Zepbound, is approved by the FDA to treat type 2 diabetes and for weight loss. On the other hand, semaglutide, the generic name for Ozempic and Wegovy, is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes treatment and weight loss.
Dr. Dina Peralta-Reich, director of New York Weight Wellness Medicine, explains that while semaglutide and tirzepatide are similar medications, there are some important differences. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider to determine which medication is ideal for individual needs.
Experts including Dr. Kunal Shah, Dr. Dina Peralta-Reich, Dr. Mir Ali, and Dr. Steven Batash emphasize that while one medication has shown better weight loss results in studies, it may not be the most suitable solution for everyone.
What is semaglutide?
Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, belongs to a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists. These drugs aid in improving blood sugar levels and can lead to weight loss, as explained by Dr. Kunal Shah, an assistant professor in the division of endocrinology at the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center.
