What Are Semaglutide & Tirzepatide?
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist; tirzepatide is a dual agonist (GLP-1 plus gastric inhibitory polypeptide, GIP). These medications work by:
- Slowing gastric emptying (you feel fuller longer)
- Reducing appetite
- Modulating blood sugar regulation
Because of these effects, both semaglutide and tirzepatide can lead to significant weight loss in persons with overweight or obesity, with or without type 2 diabetes.
How Much Weight Loss Can You Expect?
Clinical trials and recent comparative studies show that tirzepatide tends to produce greater weight loss than semaglutide. Some key findings:
- A large U.S. clinical cohort study compared people using semaglutide vs tirzepatide. Most achieved at least 5% weight loss; those using tirzepatide were much more likely to achieve 10% or 15% reductions. Weight loss differences at 3, 6, and 12 months were significantly in favor of tirzepatide.
- In a head-to-head trial among participants with obesity but without type 2 diabetes, mean weight loss at about 72 weeks was ~20% for tirzepatide vs ~14% for semaglutide.
- With semaglutide (at its authorized obesity dose), many patients in trials lost around 14-15% of starting body weight over ~68-72 weeks vs placebo.
Individual results vary depending on starting weight, dose, duration, lifestyle, and metabolic factors.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Semaglutide or tirzepatide may be appropriate if you:
- Have a body mass index (BMI) in the range qualifying for medical weight management
- Are committed to lifestyle changes (diet, physical activity, behavior)
- Do not have contraindications such as certain pancreatic or gallbladder disorders
- Have no allergies to the medications or excipients
These drugs are not recommended in pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or in people with certain medical conditions unless cleared by a physician. Off-label use or compounded/unregulated products should be avoided.
Duration of Results & Maintaining Weight Loss
- Many patients using semaglutide or tirzepatide see major weight reduction over ~1 year, especially when combined with lifestyle changes.
- To maintain weight loss, ongoing treatment often continues; stopping abruptly tends to lead to some weight regain.
- Long-term success is supported by a structured plan: nutrition, physical activity, behavior therapy, monitoring, and follow-ups.
Why Choose Modern Dose
- Medical oversight from providers experienced in prescribing semaglutide & tirzepatide
- Personalized plans with dose titration to maximize results & minimize side effects
- Integrated support: nutrition, behavioral counseling, monitoring labs
- Transparent approach: discussing risks, costs, insurance/coverage options
How soon will I see results?
Some weight loss begins in the first few weeks; more substantial results (e.g. >10% of body weight) typically appear over several months, often by 6-12 months depending on dose and adherence.
Are these injections painful?
They are administered via subcutaneous injection (under the skin). Discomfort is usually mild; providers use techniques and tools to make injections as tolerable as possible.
Semaglutide & Tirzepatide in Lindenhurst, New York
If youâre interested in exploring semaglutide or tirzepatide for weight management at Modern Dose:
- Schedule a consultation to evaluate medical history, weight goals, and help choose which medication and dose may be right for you.
- Begin treatment with dose escalation to build tolerance.
- Follow up regularly with your provider for monitoring, support, and adjustment.
Call us at (631) 429-DOSE or book online to begin.