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Semaglutide and Tirzepatide Weight Loss Medications: A Closer Look

Writer's picture: Tracy MatrosTracy Matros

Updated: Jan 23

In recent years, the quest for effective and sustainable weight loss solutions has led to the development of several medications aimed at helping individuals shed excess pounds. Among these, semaglutide and tirzepatide have gained significant attention for their potential to provide substantial weight loss benefits. In this blog post, we will explore how these medications work, their associated risks and benefits, contraindications, and the controversial use of compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide at Lakes Area IV Wellness Clinic, which is NOT FDA approved.


Understanding Semaglutide and Tirzepatide

  1. Semaglutide:

    • Semaglutide is a medication originally designed to treat type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It works by mimicking the actions of GLP-1, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels, appetite, and metabolism.

    • When used for weight loss, semaglutide is administered as a once-weekly injection. At Lakes Area IV Wellness Clinic we use the lowest effective dose for weight loss.

    • It is believed to reduce appetite, increase feelings of fullness, and slow down gastric emptying, all of which contribute to weight loss.


  1. Tirzepatide:

    • Tirzepatide is another GLP-1 receptor agonist that has shown promise in aiding weight loss. Like semaglutide, it was initially developed for diabetes treatment.

    • Tirzepatide is administered as a once-weekly injection or a daily subcutaneous injection.

    • It works by regulating blood sugar levels, enhancing insulin sensitivity, and influencing appetite control mechanisms in the brain.


Risks and Benefits

Both semaglutide and tirzepatide have shown impressive weight loss results. However, like any medication, they come with potential risks and benefits:

Benefits:

  • Significant weight loss: Both medications have demonstrated the ability to help individuals achieve substantial weight loss, which can improve overall health and reduce the risk of obesity-related conditions.

  • Improved metabolic health: Weight loss often leads to better blood sugar control, reduced insulin resistance, and lowered blood pressure.

  • Increased satiety: These medications may reduce feelings of hunger, making it easier for individuals to adhere to a calorie-restricted diet.

Risks:

  • Gastrointestinal side effects: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common side effects of both medications. In some instances adverse reactions can occur such as pancreatitis, cholecystitis, stomach paralysis, and more.

  • Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Especially when used in combination with other diabetes medications, these drugs may lead to hypoglycemia.

  • Thyroid Abnormalities: These medications may affect thyroid function, leading to thyroid abnormalities. Regular thyroid function monitoring is typically recommended for individuals on this medication.

  • Injection Site Reactions: Some individuals may experience redness, itching, or pain at the injection site.

  • Increased Heart Rate: Some individuals may experience a slight increase in heart rate while taking these medications. Monitoring for heart-related symptoms is essential.

  • Potential long-term risks: The long-term effects of using semaglutide and tirzepatide for weight loss are still being studied, and there may be unknown risks associated with extended use.

  • The risks associated with conditions like pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and related health concerns cannot be overstated. Pre-diabetes is often a precursor to type 2 diabetes, both of which can lead to a host of serious health complications, including heart disease, kidney problems, and neuropathy. Obesity, on its own, increases the risk of numerous health issues, including hypertension, sleep apnea, and joint problems. These conditions collectively pose a significant threat to one's overall health and well-being

Contraindications

While semaglutide and tirzepatide offer promising results for some individuals, they are not suitable for everyone. Contraindications and considerations include:

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: These medications are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to potential risks to the fetus or infant.

  • History of pancreatitis: Individuals with a history of pancreatitis should exercise caution when using these drugs, as they may increase the risk of pancreatitis.

  • Gastrointestinal disorders: People with certain gastrointestinal disorders may experience more severe gastrointestinal side effects, making these medications less suitable for them.

  • Allergies or sensitivities: Anyone with known allergies or sensitivities to these medications should avoid them.

  • Anyone with personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma and/or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2 should not use these medications.


Lakes Area IV Wellness Clinic and Compounded Medications

It's important to note that the use of compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide at Lakes Area IV Wellness Clinic is not FDA approved. Compounded medications are created by compounding pharmacies and are not subject to the same rigorous testing and quality control standards as FDA-approved medications. The compounded version also is not the exact same formula's.


Semaglutide and tirzepatide represent exciting developments in the field of weight loss medications. They have shown promise in helping individuals achieve significant weight loss and improved metabolic health. However, these medications are not without risks, and their use should be carefully considered in consultation with a healthcare provider.


At Lakes Area IV Wellness Clinic, our commitment goes beyond medical treatment; it's about providing compassionate care and promoting holistic well-being. We take the time to listen attentively to our patients, understanding their unique needs and concerns. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals believes that patient education is the cornerstone of better health. We are here to empower our patients with knowledge, guide them on their wellness journey, and assist them in achieving their best possible state of health. Your wellness matters to us, and we're dedicated to helping you thrive, not just in managing illness but in pursuing a life of vitality and wellness.


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