Compo Beach offers runners a beautiful, relaxed setting - Photo Westport Journal
Compo Beach offers runners a beautiful, relaxed setting – Photo Westport Journal

By, Amy M. Lohman, MD, Metabolic Medicine, Family Medicine, Nuvance Health

It’s no secret that new weight loss medications have exploded in popularity over the last two years, used by everyone from A-list celebrities in Hollywood to your neighbors down the street. Among the six FDA approved weight loss drugs, two, tirzepatide and semaglutide, have risen to the top. Tirzepatide is marketed as Zepbound; semaglutide is marketed as Wegovy. But what makes them so effective, and, are they the long-term weight loss solution you have been looking for?

What are tirzepatide and semaglutide?

Tirzepatide and semaglutide are both medications used to treat type 2 diabetes and weight loss. They belong to a group of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists or GLP-1 RAs for short. Both drugs work by stimulating a naturally occurring hormone in your gut called incretin. The drug’s stimulation effect on incretin slows the rate at which your stomach empties, thus making you feel fuller longer. Additionally, both drugs lower hunger signals in your brain and reduce hunger cravings overall.      

Fresh tomatoes at Westport Farmers Market, August 2024 - Photo Westport Journal
Fresh tomatoes at Westport Farmers Market, August 2024 – Photo Westport Journal

Despite their positive results as stand-alone weight loss drugs, tirzepatide and semaglutide should be used as a tool for weight loss alongside proper nutrition. Westporters can take advantage of healthy and fresh produce options for preparing healthy meals at the Westport Farmers Market.  

Learn more about Nutrition Counseling at Nuvance Health.

Benefits of tirzepatide and semaglutide for weight loss

Both tirzepatide and semaglutide have demonstrated significant weight loss benefits in clinical studies. While both medications offer significant weight loss benefits, tirzepatide appears to have a slight edge in efficacy. 

  • Effectiveness of tirzepatide: As a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, tirzepatide has shown impressive efficacy in clinical trials. It outperformed semaglutide and placebo in reducing body weight and improving glycemic control, with some participants losing up to 20% of their initial body weight.
  • Effectiveness of semaglutide: Semaglutide has also been proven effective in weight reduction. Clinical trials indicate an average weight loss of around 15%, alongside improvements in metabolic parameters such as blood sugar control and blood pressure.

Learn more about the comprehensive weight management program at Nuvance Health.

Who should use tirzepatide and semaglutide?

Tirzepatide and semaglutide offer significant benefits for individuals with type 2 diabetes and those seeking an effective weight management solution. According to the FDA, 70% of American adults have obesity or are overweight and many have weight-related conditions. Losing 5% to 10% of body weight through diet and exercise has been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease in adults with obesity.

  • Diabetes: For people with type 2 diabetes, both medications improve blood sugar control and reduce the risk of complications. They stimulate insulin release, suppress glucagon and slow stomach emptying, resulting in better blood sugar control. For treating type 2 diabetes, semaglutide is marketed as Ozempic and Rybelsus; tirzepatide is marketed as Mounjaro. 
  • Weight management: In terms of weight management, both medications reduce appetite and promote fullness, aiding in weight loss. They are particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with obesity or those unable to lose weight through proper nutrition and exercise alone. 

Stress also plays a big role in weight gain by raising your cortisol levels. Westporters looking to reduce stress and burn calories can join Sunrise Yoga at Compo Beach. This yoga class focuses on traditional yoga movements and even offers an optional meditation class to help you relax.

Learn more about endocrinology and diabetes treatment at Nuvance Health

How are tirzepatide and semaglutide taken?

Tirzepatide and semaglutide, while belonging to the same class of drugs, differ in administration and dosage guidelines.

Tirzepatide: Administered once a week as a subcutaneous injection, tirzepatide is injected just below the skin in the abdomen, thigh or upper arm. 

Semaglutide: Also given as a weekly subcutaneous injection, semaglutide’s dosage increases monthly as tolerated until a maintenance dose is reached. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage based on your individual needs.

Supporting a healthy lifestyle with tirzepatide and semaglutide

It’s important to consider that these new weight loss drugs are helping people achieve healthier lifestyles by reducing their risk of diabetes and obesity-related diseases. However, weight loss drugs alone may not be the answer. Incorporating a healthy lifestyle alongside medication can significantly impact your health in a positive way in the long term. Understanding the importance of nutrition and exercise, making lifestyle changes and maintaining motivation are key factors to consider when using tirzepatide or semaglutide.

Exercising at the Westport Weston Y - Photo Westport Journal
Exercising at the Westport Weston Y – Photo Westport Journal

Balanced nutrition provides essential benefits for your overall health, while regular exercise improves your cardiovascular health. Managing your weight improves insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health. Start small and make gradual adjustments when incorporating lifestyle changes. Westporters looking to enhance their exercise routine can take advantage of the Westport Weston Family YMCA.

Tirzepatide and semaglutide offer promising results for both diabetes management and weight management, each with unique benefits and considerations. By working closely with your doctor to choose the right medication and incorporating a healthy lifestyle, you can achieve improved health outcomes and overall well-being! 

Wesporters looking to begin an exercise routine but don’t quite know where to start can take advantage of the many beautiful parks in town. Check out the full list of Westport parks!

Dr. Amy Lohman is board-certified in family medicine and obesity medicine in Norwalk, Conn. She cares for kids and adults, helping everyone prevent chronic disease and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. She enjoys helping her patients improve their lifestyles and reach their personal health goals. Dr. Lohman offers in-person and telehealth visits, offering high-quality and individually personalized care. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children and being active outside. Learn more about Dr. Amy Lohman and the Nuvance Health comprehensive weight management program.

Note: Nuvance Health has sponsored this content for Westport Journal. Nuvance Health is a system of nonprofit hospitals, medical practices and outpatient healthcare services throughout the Hudson Valley and western Connecticut, including nearby Norwalk Hospital. Visit nuvancehealth.org for more information.

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