Weight loss medication has become popular because it can produce results for patients who haven’t had success with other weight loss treatments. It is becoming increasingly clear that patients who struggle with obesity have several underlying factors that reduce their body’s natural ability to regulate a healthy weight and control hunger cues. While lifestyle adjustments can help patients with long-term weight loss management, tirzepatide may give them the boost they need to kickstart their weight loss and reach their health goals.
While tirzepatide and semaglutide share many similarities, patients may see more weight loss with tirzepatide due to additional components. Tirzepatide triggers the response of two food intake hormones, whereas semaglutide only activates one hormone’s receptors. The brain supplies the body with numerous hormones during daily functions like exercising, sleeping, and eating. The brain triggers two main hormones with food intake: Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependant insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). These hormones control how the brain and body respond to food consumption.
The components of tirzepatide combine with the body’s hormone receptors to produce a cellular response. Tirzepatide mimics GLP-1 and GIP hormones, significantly affecting the body’s response to food. It slows down digestion by producing less stomach acid and, therefore, delaying the breakdown of food. This change in digestive function may help patients experience fewer hunger cues and feel satisfied for more extended periods.
While semaglutide and other first-generation GLP-1 medications focus mainly on one specific hormone, choosing tirzepatide and its additional hormone trigger may produce a broader range of efficacy in weight loss for some patients. Because of tirzepatide’s additional influence on the body’s hormonal system through GLP-1 and GIP hormone receptors, this medication may prove a more balanced, steady, and effective weight loss tool for some patients.
As the popularity of weight loss medication increases, patients will likely see new medications emerge on the market. Semaglutide may be the original weight loss drug, but tirzepatide can hold its own. As the latest version of medication to aid in weight loss, tirzepatide offers similar benefits to semaglutide; however, there are enough differences between the two medications to mean patients may prefer the effects of one over the other. The following table highlights the differences between tirzepatide and semaglutide:
The providers at our Bellevue practice will help patients navigate the benefits and disadvantages of each weight loss medication and other elements of our plans to help them choose the right weight loss program.
The first step in our Bellevue weight loss program is a consultation with one of our skilled and knowledgeable providers. Patients can schedule an in-office or virtual consultation, depending on what works best for them. At this appointment, the provider will determine if the patient is eligible for tirzepatide by asking for information such as the patient’s:
While weight loss medication may be crucial in helping patients reach their target weight, patients must establish and maintain a sustainable and healthy diet and exercise plan. The provider will then recommend a starting dosage for the patient and a health and fitness guide to help them develop healthy habits and improve their overall lifestyle for many years.
Once patients receive their tirzepatide doses and other injection supplies, they must attend a virtual or in-person training session. At this appointment, the provider will show the patient how to self-inject tirzepatide. Once a week, patients will need to administer an injection to their thigh, stomach, or bicep. Rotating the location of the injection will help prevent irritation. Providers will base a patient’s tirzepatide dose on several factors, including previous use of weight loss medication and patient goals.
Patients will benefit from monthly check-in appointments with their provider. These in-person or virtual visits allow providers to assess the patient’s weight loss progress and adjust tirzepatide dosage if needed. However, we initially use the recommended dosage provided.
Weight loss medication can be a beneficial tool in helping patients reach their weight goals; however, medications like tirzepatide work best in partnership with a healthy lifestyle. Patients who want to see the best results from their tirzepatide weight loss program should emphasize changes in habits. Eliminating or significantly reducing the consumption of greasy and fatty foods, foods high in sodium, and overly processed or sugary foods may help patients reduce their weight and increase their overall health. An active lifestyle will also contribute to successful weight loss. Implementing healthy diet and fitness choices may allow patients to see quicker, more satisfactory results.
Monthly follow-up appointments, plus access to 24/7 on-call doctors, will ensure that patients never have to delay asking questions about their weight loss medication or its effects.
Each patient’s weight loss progress will vary when they begin a tirzepatide weight loss program. Most patients should expect to see results between twelve to sixteen weeks after their initial dose of medication, though results may become noticeable before or after this time frame. It is more likely for patients who follow their provider’s recommended diet and fitness plans to see results sooner.
Tirzepatide and semaglutide are both effective medications that can support weight loss. Our providers will look at a patient’s weight loss goals, medical history, and genetic factors before suggesting the medication that may help them see the best results.
Our Bellevue practice offers a tirzepatide weight loss program for $750 per month. This price includes everything the patient needs for an effective weight loss plan: tirzepatide and injection supplies, a nutrition guide, a recommended exercise plan, 24/7 access to on-call doctors, and a monthly appointment (virtual or in-person) to track the patient’s progress.
Like semaglutide, compounded tirzepatide may cause some side effects, including digestive issues. As with semaglutide, these side effects are generally temporary and improve as the patient’s body adjusts to the tirzepatide doses. Side effects may include:
Though rare, some patients have experienced the following:
Tirzepatide is a long-term medication for the treatment of weight loss. However, patients who begin a tirzepatide weight loss program may stop using the medication at any time. The primary goal of our Bellevue practice’s weight loss program is to help patients lose weight while developing a healthy lifestyle. If the patient reaches their desired weight, the provider may be able to reduce the patient’s tirzepatide intake to a lesser maintenance dose. Some patients may need to continue these doses long-term if they struggle with weight management.
Bellevue’s Best Tirzepatide Weight Loss Program
At our Bellevue practice, we offer a comprehensive tirzepatide weight loss program. This plan includes all the supplies necessary for the self-administration of tirzepatide, such as the medication, alcohol pads, and initial injection training session. Patients also benefit from 24/7 access to on-call doctors and an exercise and diet plan. Monthly check-ins allow our providers to adjust the patient’s weight loss plan when necessary and support patients throughout their weight loss journeys.
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