Semaglutide FAQ
Semaglutide is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and for weight management in certain patients. It is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist that works by increasing insulin secretion, inhibiting glucagon release, and slowing gastric emptying, helping to control blood sugar levels and reduce appetite.
Semaglutide is typically administered as an injection, either once a week (for type 2 diabetes and weight management) or daily in lower doses (for other indications, such as type 2 diabetes). It can be injected under the skin of the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
Semaglutide is the active ingredient in Ozempic®, which is specifically branded for diabetes management. There’s also Wegovy®, which contains semaglutide and is specifically for weight loss.
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. Serious side effects may include pancreatitis, kidney issues, and thyroid tumors, although these are rare.
For blood sugar control, patients may begin to notice an improvement in blood sugar levels within the first week, but it may take several weeks to experience the full effects. For weight loss, patients may see significant changes after several weeks to months.
Semaglutide is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to limited safety data. Consult your healthcare provider for alternative options if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
If you miss a dose, inject it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses to make up for a missed one.
Tirzepatide FAQ
Tirzepatide is a newer medication that is a dual GLP-1 and GIP (gastric inhibitory polypeptide) receptor agonist, used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and weight management. It helps control blood sugar, reduce appetite, and promote weight loss.
Tirzepatide is administered via subcutaneous injection once a week, similar to semaglutide. It can be injected into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
While both drugs are used for managing type 2 diabetes and weight loss, tirzepatide works on two different receptors (GLP-1 and GIP), whereas semaglutide only targets the GLP-1 receptor. This dual action may make tirzepatide more effective in some individuals for both blood sugar control and weight loss.
The side effects are similar to those of semaglutide, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. In rare cases, more serious side effects such as pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, or kidney problems may occur.
Yes, tirzepatide is approved for weight loss in patients with obesity or overweight and at least one weight-related comorbidity. Studies have shown significant weight loss in patients using tirzepatide for this purpose.
Similar to semaglutide, tirzepatide may start showing effects on blood sugar levels within the first week, but full effects can take a few weeks. For weight loss, patients may see noticeable results in a few weeks to months.
Yes, tirzepatide can often be used alongside other diabetes medications, including metformin, SGLT-2 inhibitors, or insulin. However, always check with your healthcare provider before combining medications.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible within 4 days of the missed dose. If more than 4 days have passed, skip the missed dose and take your next dose on the usual day. Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.