Short answer: semaglutide and tirzepatide are both once-weekly injections that help with appetite and weight. Semaglutide acts on one hormone pathway (GLP-1). Tirzepatide acts on two (GLP-1 and GIP). In large clinical trials, tirzepatide produced more average weight loss, but either can be the better fit depending on your health, side effects and budget. Your provider decides which suits you after a medical consultation.
Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide at a Glance
| Semaglutide | Tirzepatide | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Mimics GLP-1, a hormone that slows digestion and increases fullness | Mimics both GLP-1 and GIP, two hormones involved in appetite and blood sugar |
| Dosing | Once a week, increased gradually | Once a week, increased gradually |
| Brand names you may know | Wegovy, Ozempic | Zepbound, Mounjaro |
| Common side effects | Nausea, constipation, diarrhea, reduced appetite | Nausea, constipation, diarrhea, reduced appetite |
| Requires a medical consultation | Yes | Yes |
What the Research Shows
In the STEP 1 trial, adults taking weekly semaglutide lost about 15% of their body weight on average over 68 weeks, alongside diet and activity changes. In the SURMOUNT-1 trial, adults on the highest dose of weekly tirzepatide lost about 21% on average over 72 weeks. These are group averages from controlled studies. Individual results vary, and a medication is only one part of a plan that also covers eating, movement and follow-up visits.
How to Decide Between Them
- Your health history matters most. Some conditions rule out one or both medications.
- How you tolerate side effects. Some people do better on one than the other.
- Your goals and timeline. Your provider weighs how much support you need.
- Cost and supply. Pricing and availability can differ between the two.
What to Expect When You Start
Your first visit is a medical consultation and health review. If a GLP-1 medication is right for you, you start on a low weekly dose that increases gradually, with regular check-ins to track progress and side effects. Most people notice their appetite change within the first few weeks.
GLP-1 Weight Loss at Victoria Edward Spa
Our medically supervised GLP-1 weight loss program in Longwood, FL offers semaglutide or tirzepatide, prescribed and supervised by Kennedi Seals, PA-C. Pricing starts from $85 a week ($340 a month). We are at 242 W State Road 434, Longwood, FL 32750. Call (321) 765-7779 or text (407) 537-2355 to book a consultation.
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Talk with a licensed provider before starting any medication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tirzepatide stronger than semaglutide?
In the large clinical trials, people taking tirzepatide lost more weight on average than people taking semaglutide. Averages are not predictions for any one person, and the right choice depends on your health history, side effects and goals.
How much do semaglutide and tirzepatide cost at Victoria Edward Spa?
GLP-1 weight loss at Victoria Edward Spa starts from $85 a week ($340 a month) for weekly semaglutide or tirzepatide injections, after a medical consultation with Kennedi Seals, PA-C.
Are the side effects different?
Both commonly cause stomach-related side effects such as nausea, constipation or diarrhea, especially when the dose goes up. Your provider adjusts the dose gradually and reviews any side effects with you.
Can I switch from semaglutide to tirzepatide?
Sometimes. It is a medical decision your provider makes after reviewing how you have responded, your side effects and your health history.
Who should not take GLP-1 medication?
GLP-1 medications are not right for everyone, including people with certain thyroid cancer histories, some pancreas conditions, or who are pregnant. A medical consultation is required before starting.