Tirzepatide and semaglutide are medicines often used to help with weight loss, especially for people with type 2 diabetes. While tirzepatide might be a bit more powerful, we still need more research to be sure.

Using meds to lose weight is getting more popular. Doctors sometimes give out newer type 2 diabetes drugs to help with weight, even though it's not their main job according to the FDA.

Two drugs doctors use for weight loss are tirzepatide and semaglutide. They both help you feel less hungry, but each has its own details to think about with your doctor's advice. We're still figuring out which one is better.

Is tirzepatide better than semaglutide?

Semaglutide has FDA approval to treat type 2 diabetes, but only one version, Wegovy, is approved for weight management. Semaglutide is like a hormone in your body that makes you feel less hungry.

Tirzepatide, sold as Mounjaro, mimics two hormones in your body that help control hunger and insulin. This means tirzepatide might be a bit better at helping you lose weight. But remember, it's only officially approved for diabetes, not weight loss.

One good thing about semaglutide is that you can take it as a pill or an injection. Tirzepatide only comes as an injection.

Do they both help you lose weight?

Some studies found tirzepatide led to more weight loss than semaglutide. But these studies had some issues, like giving different doses of the drugs. It's possible if they used the same doses, semaglutide might have worked better.

Also, these studies only looked at people with type 2 diabetes, so we're not sure if the results apply to everyone. Tirzepatide is only officially approved for diabetes, but some studies suggest semaglutide might help people without diabetes lose weight too.

Side effects of each medicine

The side effects of tirzepatide and semaglutide are pretty similar. They can cause things like stomach issues, headaches, and low blood sugar. But they can also lead to more serious problems like vision changes or pancreatitis. Both drugs have serious warnings about the risk of thyroid tumors.

Takeaway

Tirzepatide and semaglutide are both used to help with weight loss, especially for people with type 2 diabetes. While tirzepatide might be a bit better, we need more research to be sure, especially for people without diabetes. Your doctor can help you decide which option is best for you based on your needs and health.