The short answer
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are both once-weekly prescription injections for weight loss. Semaglutide acts on one appetite hormone pathway (GLP-1). Tirzepatide acts on two (GLP-1 and GIP). In a head-to-head clinical trial, people taking tirzepatide lost more weight on average than people taking semaglutide. At Cosmetica Med Spa, we offer tirzepatide (Zepbound).
What is semaglutide?
Semaglutide is the active ingredient in Ozempic, which is approved for type 2 diabetes, and Wegovy, which is approved for chronic weight management. It mimics GLP-1, a hormone that signals fullness, slows digestion and helps regulate blood sugar.
What is tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Mounjaro, approved for type 2 diabetes, and Zepbound, approved for chronic weight management. It mimics both GLP-1 and GIP, a second hormone involved in appetite and metabolism.
How they compare
| Semaglutide | Tirzepatide | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand names for weight loss | Wegovy | Zepbound |
| Hormone pathways | GLP-1 | GLP-1 and GIP |
| How often | Once a week | Once a week |
| Common side effects | Nausea, diarrhea, constipation | Nausea, diarrhea, constipation |
Which works better for weight loss?
In a 72-week head-to-head trial in adults with obesity, people on tirzepatide lost an average of about 20% of their body weight, compared with about 14% on semaglutide. Individual results vary with dose, health and lifestyle, and both medications work best alongside healthy eating and activity.
Side effects and safety
Both medications cause similar side effects, most often nausea, diarrhea, constipation and reduced appetite, especially when starting or increasing a dose. Both carry a warning about thyroid C-cell tumors seen in animal studies and aren't recommended for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2, or during pregnancy.
Why Cosmetica offers Zepbound
We chose tirzepatide because of its strong results and dual-hormone action. Our medical weight loss membership is $100 per month for medical supervision and check-ins, with medication and bloodwork billed separately.
Is it right for you?
The right medication depends on your health, goals and history. A consultation with lab work is the first step. Learn more about tirzepatide in Boca Raton.