Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide: What’s the Difference?

Mechanism of Action

Semaglutide

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which means it mimics the hormone GLP-1 to help regulate blood sugar by:

• Enhancing insulin secretion (when glucose levels are high)
• Reducing glucagon secretion
• Slowing gastric emptying
• Supporting appetite regulation

Tirzepatide

Tirzepatide is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, meaning it works on two hormone pathways involved in glucose and metabolic regulation. This dual mechanism is under investigation for its potential to impact both glycemic control and weight management outcomes.

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Efficacy in Weight Management

Weight Management Outcomes

Semaglutide (Wegovy®):
In the STEP 1 trial, adults with overweight or obesity taking 2.4 mg weekly of semaglutide experienced a mean weight loss of 14.9% over 68 weeks.

Tirzepatide (Zepbound™):
In the SURMOUNT-1 trial, participants receiving 15 mg weekly of tirzepatide lost up to 22.5% of their body weight over 72 weeks.

Note: These results are averages from large clinical trials. Outcomes vary by individual and are influenced by baseline health, lifestyle, and adherence. Ozempic and Mounjaro are not FDA-approved for weight loss. Wegovy and Zepbound are the approved formulations.

Glycemic Control

Both medications have been shown to reduce HbA1c (a marker of blood sugar control):

• Semaglutide has been associated with average reductions of 1.0–1.5% in HbA1c.
• Tirzepatide showed HbA1c reductions of up to 2.0% in the SURPASS trial program.

Side Effects

The most commonly reported side effects of both medications include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Injection site reactions

Licensed medical providers may recommend dose titration (starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing) to reduce the risk of side effects. It’s important to follow provider guidance for the best outcomes.

Dosing and Administration

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Only a licensed healthcare provider can determine the correct dosing schedule and whether treatment is appropriate.

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Cost and Access

Medication pricing and insurance coverage vary widely depending on:

• The brand prescribed (e.g., Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, Zepbound™)
• Whether the diagnosis qualifies for insurance coverage (e.g., type 2 diabetes vs. weight-related conditions)
• The patient's insurance plan

Eden helps patients connect with independent licensed medical providers who can determine eligibility and, if appropriate, prescribe treatment. Any prescribed medications are fulfilled through state-licensed compounding pharmacies or third-party pharmacy partners.

Conclusion

While semaglutide and tirzepatide share some similarities, they are distinct medications with different mechanisms of action, dosing schedules, and clinical outcomes. If you’re curious about your options, the best next step is to speak with a licensed healthcare provider who can evaluate your individual health goals and determine whether you’re a candidate for treatment.

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Eden does not provide treatment or prescribe medication. Only a licensed medical provider can determine if you qualify for therapy.

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