Who is a good candidate for semaglutide and tirzepatide?

In recent years, groundbreaking advancements in medical weight loss treatments have revolutionized the field, offering new hope to those struggling with obesity and weight-related health conditions. Semaglutide, marketed under names like Ozempic and Wegovy, and Tirzepatide (marketed as Zepbound or Mounjaro), a newer addition to the market, are two injectable medications that have shown exceptional promise in helping patients achieve sustainable weight loss. If you’re considering medical weight loss options in Austin, understanding who qualifies for these treatments can help you make an informed decision.

At Levesque Plastic Surgery, we are proud to offer comprehensive medical weight loss programs featuring Semaglutide and Tirzepatide. Read on to learn whether these cutting-edge treatments might be right for you.

Disclaimer: This information is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise or fitness program, particularly when using medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide.

Understanding Semaglutide and Tirzepatide

Semaglutide and tirzepatide are medications designed to support weight loss by regulating appetite and metabolism. Here’s a quick overview of how they work:

Semaglutide: Semaglutide mimics a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. By slowing gastric emptying and signaling fullness to the brain, it can significantly reduce food intake and promote weight loss. Brand names include Ozempic (used for type 2 diabetes) and Wegovy (specifically for weight loss).

Tirzepatide: Tirzepatide is a dual agonist that targets both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors. This dual action enhances weight loss by improving blood sugar control and amplifying satiety signals, resulting in reduced calorie consumption and increased fat burning. It is marketed under the brand name Mounjaro or Zepbound

Why Are These Medications Administered Subcutaneously?

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are administered via subcutaneous injection for several reasons:  

• Bioavailability: The medications are peptides, which are broken down by the digestive system if taken orally, rendering them ineffective. Subcutaneous administration ensures that the medication enters the bloodstream intact.  
• Sustained Release: Injectable formulations allow for a slow and steady release of the medication over time. This is particularly important for maintaining consistent levels of GLP-1 and GIP receptor activation throughout the week.  
• Patient Convenience: A weekly injection reduces the need for daily dosing, improving compliance and making the treatment more manageable for patients.
  

Who Is a Good Candidate for Semaglutide or Tirzepatide?

Body Mass Index (BMI) Considerations

A key criterion for determining eligibility for Semaglutide or Tirzepatide is your body mass index (BMI).   

• BMI of 30 or Higher: Individuals with a BMI of 30 or greater are typically classified as obese and may benefit from these medications.  
• BMI of 27 or Higher with Weight-Related Conditions: If your BMI is between 27 and 29.9 and you have weight-related health issues such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea, you may also qualify.  
• If your BMI is less than 25 you may still be a candidate but will need to be assessed on a case by case basis.  We do not advise using these medications for BMI's less than 22.

Struggles with Traditional Weight Loss Methods  

• Candidates often include those who have tried diet and exercise programs without achieving significant or lasting results. Semaglutide and Tirzepatide provide an effective alternative for individuals who need additional support to reach their weight loss goals.  
• Most successful patients on Semaglutide or Tirzepatide with long lasting weight loss are those patients that already are in an active fitness program but have struggled to get the results they are used to at an earlier age.  Lifestyle and habit change is ultimately what is necessary to keep the weight off and eventually stop taking these medications.

Health Conditions Related to Obesity

People with weight-related health issues such as the following may benefit significantly from these treatments:  

• Type 2 diabetes  
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)  
• Dyslipidemia (abnormal cholesterol levels)  
• Cardiovascular disease  
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)  
• Obstructive sleep apnea

Both medications can improve these conditions by promoting weight loss and improving overall metabolic health.  Exciting new research is being performed to determine if there are benefits on inflammation, dementia, impulse control, and addiction.  

Commitment to a Healthy Lifestyle

While Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are powerful tools for weight loss, they work best when combined with a commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Ideal candidates are prepared to:  

• Follow a balanced, calorie-controlled diet  
• Engage in regular physical activity with an emphasis on strength-building exercises such as resistance training, weight lifting, or bodyweight exercises. These activities help preserve muscle mass and improve overall metabolic rate during weight loss. Research from The Journal of Obesity (2021) highlights the importance of maintaining lean muscle tissue to enhance long-term weight management.  
• Supplement their diet with adequate protein to prevent muscle loss. According to a study published in Nutrients (2020), a high-protein diet combined with resistance training can mitigate muscle loss and improve body composition during weight loss programs. Learn more about our post-surgical nutrition guidelines.  
• Attend follow-up appointments and adhere to prescribed treatment plans

Absence of Certain Medical Conditions

These medications are not suitable for everyone. They may not be recommended for individuals with:  

• A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)  
• A history of pancreatitis  
• Severe gastrointestinal issues such as gastroparesis  
• Known hypersensitivity to the medication’s ingredients

Non-Pregnant and Non-Breastfeeding Individuals

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide have not been studied extensively in pregnant or breastfeeding women, so these medications are not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation.

Differences in Symptom Profiles Between Semaglutide and Tirzepatide

While Semaglutide and Tirzepatide share many similarities, they also differ in their symptom profiles and potential side effects:

Semaglutide:  

• More commonly associated with nausea, particularly during the initial weeks of treatment as the dosage is gradually increased.  
• Gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation are typical but tend to diminish as the body adjusts.  
• Less frequent reports of fatigue or dizziness compared to tirzepatide.

Tirzepatide:  

• Can lead to more pronounced gastrointestinal side effects in some patients due to its dual mechanism of action targeting both GLP-1 and GIP receptors.  
• A slightly higher incidence of appetite suppression, which may lead to rapid weight reduction but requires careful monitoring to ensure adequate nutritional intake.  
• Some patients report mild fatigue, which could be linked to the body adapting to changes in metabolic activity.

These differences highlight the importance of tailoring treatment to the individual. Patients experiencing significant discomfort may benefit from dose adjustments or supportive care to minimize side effects. Both medications are well-tolerated overall, with most side effects being temporary and manageable.

Benefits of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide for Weight Loss

Both semaglutide and tirzepatide offer a range of benefits that go beyond weight loss:  

• Sustained Weight Reduction: Clinical trials have shown that patients using these medications can lose 15-20% of their body weight on average.  
• Improved Blood Sugar Control: Both medications are particularly beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes, as they help stabilize blood sugar levels.  
• Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: By promoting weight loss and improving metabolic markers, these treatments can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.  
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Many patients report improved energy levels, better sleep, and increased confidence.  
• Muscle Preservation: Combined with protein supplementation and strength-building exercises, these treatments can promote fat loss while preserving lean muscle, further supporting metabolic health. Learn about our recommended fitness strategies.

Potential Side Effects and Risks

Like any medication, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide come with potential side effects. Common side effects include:  

• Nausea  
• Diarrhea or constipation  
• Vomiting  
• Abdominal discomfort

These side effects are usually mild and tend to diminish over time as your body adjusts to the medication. Rare but serious risks include:  

• Pancreatitis  
• Gallbladder issues  
• Severe allergic reactions

It’s essential to discuss these risks with your healthcare provider and to report any concerning symptoms immediately.

Not everyone is a good candidate for these medications but for some they can make a meaningful addition into your goals of achieving weight loss.