Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide (the active ingredient in Mounjaro®) has garnered significant attention as a breakthrough in weight management in recent years. At Beaver Medical Group, we provide personalized weight loss plans, including Tirzepatide, for patients looking for sustainable, long-term health improvements.
What is Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. Originally created to manage blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, this medication has shown significant weight loss benefits in clinical trials. Tirzepatide works by stimulating both the GIP and GLP-1 receptors, which are involved in appetite regulation and insulin secretion.
How Does Tirzepatide Promote Weight Loss?
- Reducing appetite
It helps you feel full faster and stay full longer. - Slowing digestion
By delaying how quickly food leaves your stomach, it helps reduce overall calorie intake. - Increasing insulin sensitivity
By improving how your body handles insulin, tirzepatide aids in blood sugar regulation and fat loss.
Is Tirzepatide Safe for Weight Loss?
Tirzepatide has been evaluated in numerous clinical trials, and its safety profile is comparable to other weight loss medications. However, it’s important to note that it may not be suitable for everyone. Here are some groups that should avoid tirzepatide:
- Individuals with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2).
- People with severe gastrointestinal issues, such as gastroparesis.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as weight loss during pregnancy is not recommended.
How Much Weight Can I Expect to Lose on Tirzepatide?
In clinical trials, participants experienced impressive weight loss results. People who used tirzepatide for weight management, alongside diet and exercise, lost an average of 15% to 21% of their body weight over 72 weeks. The exact weight loss varies based on dosage, starting weight, and individual response to the medication.
Example from a Clinical Trial:
Participants lost up to 15.7% of their body weight, which equates to approximately 34 pounds in some cases.
Those without type 2 diabetes showed slightly higher weight loss, up to 21%.
How is Tirzepatide Administered?
Tirzepatide is administered as a once-weekly injection under the skin. The dosage starts low (2.5 mg) and can gradually increase depending on patient results. Our starter dose minimizes side effects and prepares you for doses to come. The most common target doses are 10 mg and 15 mg, depending on how well the patient tolerates the medication.
Who Should Consider Tirzepatide for Weight Loss?
Tirzepatide is recommended for:
- Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher (obesity).
- Adults with a BMI of 27 or higher and at least one weight-related health condition (such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol).
- Individuals who have struggled to lose weight through traditional diet and exercise alone.
Common Side Effects of Tirzepatide
Like all medications, tirzepatide has some side effects. Most are mild to moderate and tend to decrease over time as your body adjusts. Common side effects include:
- Nausea
Especially during the initial weeks of treatment. - Vomiting
Occasional in some patients. - Diarrhea or constipation
Digestive issues may occur but typically improve with time. - Fatigue
Some users may feel more tired than usual in the early weeks. - Headaches
Reported by a small percentage of patients.
Serious but Rare Side Effects
Though rare, some serious side effects are associated with tirzepatide, such as:
- Pancreatitis
Severe abdominal pain may signal this condition. - Gallbladder issues
Rapid weight loss can increase the risk of gallstones. - Thyroid cancer
Animal studies have shown a risk, though it’s unclear if this applies to humans.
If you experience any of these severe symptoms, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Is Tirzepatide Covered by Insurance?
Insurance coverage for Tirzepatide can vary depending on your insurance provider and diagnosis. Generally, Tirzepatide is not covered for non-diabetic patients. We offer compounded Tirzepatide affordable to those who are not covered through insurance to help with accessibility and weight related comorbidities.
Tirzepatide vs. Semaglutide: Which is Better for Weight Loss?
Both tirzepatide and semaglutide are highly effective medications for weight loss, but there are some key differences:
- Mechanism of Action
While both target GLP-1 receptors, tirzepatide also targets GIP receptors, which may explain its greater weight loss efficacy. - Weight Loss Results
In clinical trials, tirzepatide has demonstrated greater average weight loss compared to semaglutide. Some studies show up to a 5% higher reduction in body weight with tirzepatide. - Side Effects
Both medications have similar side effect profiles, although individual experiences may vary.
What Makes Tirzepatide Unique?
Tirzepatide stands out because it targets two hormone receptors (GIP and GLP-1), which work synergistically to control appetite and improve metabolic health. This dual action makes it more effective than other medications that target only GLP-1 receptors. With this dual action, it offers superior weight loss results compared to other treatments. However, as with any medication, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider to determine if it’s the right choice for your weight loss journey. When combined with a healthy lifestyle, tirzepatide can help you achieve lasting results.
Tirzepatide is a promising medication for individuals seeking effective weight loss solutions.
weight loss services
testimonials
common questions
How soon will I see weight loss results with tirzepatide?
Many patients begin seeing weight loss within the first few weeks of treatment, although significant results typically appear after several months. Consistency with the medication, along with diet and exercise, is key.
Can tirzepatide be used alongside other weight loss medications?
Tirzepatide should not be combined with other GLP-1 receptor agonists or medications like semaglutide. Always consult your doctor before combining medications.
What happens if I stop taking tirzepatide?
During treatment with tirzepatide, our goal is to help you achieve a healthy metabolism to prevent regaining the weight. Throughout treatment, we focus on improving your diet and exercise habits to support long-term health. After reaching your weight loss goal, we can develop a maintenance dosing plan to reduce the chances of rebound weight gain.
Are there any dietary restrictions while taking tirzepatide?
There are no specific dietary restrictions, but combining tirzepatide with a balanced, reduced-calorie diet will maximize your weight loss results.
Can I use tirzepatide if I don’t have type 2 diabetes?
Yes, tirzepatide has been shown to be effective for weight loss in people without type 2 diabetes. However, we will assess your medical history to determine if it’s appropriate for you.
