Dr. Dawn Ericsson, Chief Medical Officer

Dr. E’s Health Update: Are the New Weight Loss “Miracle” Drugs for Real?

Celebrity endorsements notwithstanding, these new treatments show promise for weight loss.

Hi friends, 

Struggling to attain and maintain a healthy weight is something man of us face, no matter what our age. Obesity at any level can have negative effects on health and wellness. But losing weight is never easy or quick. Which is what makes the introduction of the newest “miracle” weight loss drugs so exciting. Medications like Ozempic™ (semaglutide) and Mounjaro™ (tirzepatide) could be just what you need to lose weight – and keep it off. 

Semaglutide and tirzepatide are both medications used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. They belong to the class of medications know as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which work by increasing insulin secretion, decreasing glucagon secretion, and slowing down gastric emptying. However, they have some differences in the mechanisms of action and specific characteristics. Here are some key points about each medication:

Semaglutide:

Semaglutide is a long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist that is administered once weekly. It helps improve glycemic control by stimulating insulin secretion and reducing glucagon secretion, leading to lower blood sugar levels.
It has shown effectiveness in reducing the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in people with type 2 diabetes who have established cardiovascular disease.
Semaglutide is also used for weight management, as a higher dose of the medication (2.4 mg) has been approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related comorbidity.

Tirzepatide:

Tirzepatide is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and GLP-1 receptor agonist. It has a longer half-life than other GLP-1 receptor agonists, allowing for less frequent dosing.
Tirzepatide has shown promising results in reducing HbA1c levels and body weight in clinical trials, often demonstrating superior efficacy compared to other diabetes medications.
It has also shown potential in promoting weight loss and improving overall cardiometabolic parameters.

While both semaglutide and tirzepatide were developed to treat individuals with type 2 diabetes, they have demonstrated efficacy in improving glycemic control and reducing body weight. The choice between these medications depends on various factors such as the patient’s individual health profile, treatment goals, preferences, and any specific considerations regarding cardiovascular risk or weight management. A consultation with one of our weight loss professionals at AgeRejuvenation can shed some light on whether or not they are right for you.

Let’s talk about it. Click here or call 844.907.2476 to schedule an appointment today.