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Tirzepatide and Ozempic as Medications for Weight Loss

The media has shed light on people using various medications for weight loss that were previously only used for patients with type 2 diabetes. Several of these types of medications have also been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for weight reduction in adults with obesity.


Several celebrities have also promoted their use for weight loss on social media, causing a stir among those who seemingly have not much weight to lose.


The shortage resulting from the increasing use for weight loss is causing concern for some patients with type 2 diabetes. Those who cannot obtain their medications have to switch to alternative treatments.


Here, we take a look at medications approved for both weight loss and diabetes, how they work, and more.


Diabetes Medications for Weight Reduction

Despite the chatter on the internet, obesity is a legitimate medical diagnosis. Under proper medical supervision, medications may potentially help individuals with this diagnosis lose weight.


Here are three things you should know about the types of medications and their use.


1. Semaglutide (also known as Ozempic )

Studies have shown sustained, clinically relevant weight reduction with semaglutide, a medication classified as a GLP1 receptor agonist (Glucagon-like peptide-1). An agonist is a chemical that activates a receptor to elicit a biological response.


FDA-approved Ozempic for diabetes

FDA-approved Ozempic for weight reduction

Both Ozempic and Wegovy are administered through injection

There are differences in the type of injection pen, inactive ingredients, and maximum labeled dosages

2. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro)

Tirzepatide combines the activation of GLP1 and GIP receptors (gastric inhibitory polypeptide, also known as a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). Studies show significant and sustained weight reduction when using tirzepatide.


FDA-approved Tirzepatide for diabetes

Published studies have examined tirzepatide for weight loss in people without diabetes. It is currently under FDA review but has not yet been FDA-approved for weight loss.

Tirzepatide and Ozempic are relatively new medications

Tirzepatide just received FDA approval for diabetes in 2022

All three are once-weekly injections

Tirzepatide and Ozempic are FDA-approved for treating diabetes, but obesity medicine experts and primary care providers prescribe them off-label to help people lose weight

How do Tirzepatide and Ozempic work for weight loss?

GLP1 receptors are found in various areas of the body, including the brain, and are involved in appetite regulation. When these receptors are activated, they can help reduce appetite, make people feel fuller faster, and ultimately reduce calorie intake.


Additional effects of GLP1 receptor agonists aid in blood sugar control in diabetes.


Studies show that these medications can help people lose significantly more weight than other FDA-approved weight loss medications.


Data shows that tirzepatide can reduce body weight by an average of over 20% and Ozempic can reduce body weight by an average of over 14%. However, it is important to note that in clinical practice, we may observe significantly less or more weight loss in an individual patient compared to the averages from clinical trials.


Ozempic and Tirzepatide - Side Effects

Be sure to consult with your doctor to determine if these medications are suitable for you.


Side effects can vary from person to person and from one medication to another. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal and include:


  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Abdominal pain

Gastrointestinal symptoms may improve over time. If your doctor prescribes one of these medications, they can work with you to adjust your diet to minimize potential side effects.


Are Ozempic and Tirzepatide suitable for me?

In general, you can use these products if:


You have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater

You have a BMI of 27 or greater with weight-related conditions

You do not have any condition that would prevent safe use

You are trying to achieve a healthier weight

Those who do not meet the criteria include those with:


  • A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
  • A personal history of multiple endocrine neoplasia
  • Pancreatitis (relative contraindication)
  • Costs of weight loss medications
  • Unfortunately, purchasing these products can be difficult. Without insurance, these medications can be very expensive, costing around $1,200 per month.


Fortunately, our shop offers Tirzepatide at an affordable price. This product is a stronger alternative to Ozempic. Tirzepatide from Endogenic has all the necessary certificates and approvals, so you can be confident that you are purchasing the highest quality product.