Semaglutide or Tirzepatide are medications that are a modified molecule our bodies make called CLP-1 analog. It works by increasing insulin production and lowers glucagon secretion, as well as targeting areas in the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. A small change in the molecule allows the drug to last weeks in our bodies rather than the natural version our bodies make, which lasts minutes.
Benefits:
Most patients experience decreased appetite and cravings, weight loss, and improved blood glucose control.
Weight Loss with Medications FAQ
What is a GLP-1?
GLP-1’s works by increasing insulin production and lowers glucagon production. They mimic the body’s natural GLP-1 hormone, which the gut releases after eating, causing the pancreas to produce more insulin. This helps keep blood sugar levels within a normal range. They also target areas in the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. A small change in the molecule allows the drug to last weeks in our bodies rather than the natural version our bodies make, which lasts only minutes.
What are the benefits?
- Decreased appetite and cravings
- Weight Loss (Works best with a healthy diet and regular exercise)
- Improved blood glucose control
Is it painful?
We use a very small needle, most patients do not find it painful.
How do they work?
- Delays how quickly our stomachs digest food, leading to a feeling of fullness and satisfaction with smaller
- meal sizes.
- Slows intestinal motility so you will feel fuller for longer after meals.
- Lowers blood sugars, in part by reducing the production of sugar in the liver.
- Stimulates insulin secretion by the pancreas.
Side effects/Contraindications:
- Most common side effects include nausea and constipation. (We recommend starting MiraLAX with first doses, take every other day for the first 2 weeks)
- Patients have also reported acid reflux, stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Serious side effects increase in patients with hypoglycemia, kidney problems, and risk of allergic reactions.
- This medication in NOT insulin and should not be used if you have type 1 diabetes OR if you develop
- diabetic ketoacidosis. This medication should not be used with any other GLP-1 medication.
- Risk of Thyroid C-Cell tumors: If you or any family members have been diagnosed with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome Type 2 or Medullary thyroid cancer you should NOT take GLP-1’s If you have ever had pancreatitis consult your primary care doctor prior to starting GLP-1’s because it can increase the risk of developing pancreatitis.
- Warning/Contradiction for Females: There are limited data from the use of GLP-1’s in pregnant women. Therefore, GLP-1’s should not be used during pregnancy or nursing. If a patient wishes to become pregnant, or pregnancy occurs, GLP-1’s should be discontinued.
Which one is best for me?
Semaglutide: Semaglutide is the best option if you are wanting to lose 10-30 pounds, you can lose 15-16% body fat loss.
Tirzepatide: Tirzepatide is a dual action and targets GLP-1 & GIP receptors, it is best if you are needing to lose over 30 pounds, have a sensitivity to Semaglutide, require less gastro side effects, if you hit a plateau on Semaglutide, and for better glycemic control (PCOS, insulin resistant) You can lose 14-18% body fat.
Cost of Program:
Charged in 4–6-week increments (depending on medication) you do not have to do the full
program or continue to increase your dose if you are losing on a lower dose.
Semaglutide/B12 5mg/1mg/ml | Tirzepatide/B12 25mg/1mg/ml |
$300 for 6 weeks Week 1-4 Inject 5 units one time a week. Week 5-6 Inject 10 units one time a week. | $250 for 4 weeks Week 1-4 Inject 10 units one time a week. |
$350 for 6 weeks Week 7-8 Inject 10 units one time a week. Week 9-12 Inject 20 units one time a week. | $300 for 4 weeks Week 5-8 Inject 20 units one time a week. |
$400 for 6 weeks Week 13-16 Inject 30 units one time a week. Week 17-18 Inject 40 units one time a week. | $350 for 4 weeks Week 9-12 Inject 30 units one time a week. |
$425 Maintenance for 8 weeks 50 units one time a week for 8 weeks. | $400 for 4 weeks Week 13-16 Inject 40 units one time a week. |
$450 for 4 weeks Maintenance 50 units one time a week for 6 weeks. |