What You Need to Know Before Considering Weight-Loss Medications

2024-06-27

ShedRx

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are two weight-loss medications that have gained attention for their efficacy in aiding weight loss. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) that was initially developed for managing type 2 diabetes but has since been approved for weight loss. Tirzepatide, on the other hand, is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and GLP-1 receptor agonist that also supports weight loss.

Ever since Semaglutide and Tirzepatide were introduced as weight-loss drugs, their popularity has skyrocketed. You may have seen all those news stories touting these drugs as the cure for obesity and weight-related complications or perhaps you’ve been awed by the sight of your favorite celebrities shedding pounds and becoming lean and chiseled due to the influence of these medications. Weight-loss medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide can certainly help you lose considerable weight, but there are various factors to consider before undergoing treatment.

How Weight-Loss Medications Work

Weight-loss medications such as Semaglutide and Tirzepatide exert their effects through various mechanisms. Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, regulates appetite and food intake by mimicking the action of GLP-1 in the brain. This leads to reduced hunger and increased feelings of fullness, ultimately promoting weight loss. Tirzepatide, a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, targets multiple pathways involved in appetite regulation and glucose metabolism. By modulating these pathways, Tirzepatide helps individuals achieve significant weight loss.

How Semaglutide Works for Weight Loss

Semaglutide operates by engaging with glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors in the brain, imitating the actions of natural GLP-1. GLP-1 is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and food intake. When Semaglutide activates GLP-1 receptors, it triggers signaling pathways that reduce hunger and increase satiety, leading to decreased food consumption.

Additionally, Semaglutide influences gastric motility by delaying gastric emptying. This means that food stays in the stomach longer, prolonging the feeling of fullness and reducing the frequency of hunger pangs. By modulating gastric emptying, Semaglutide contributes to a sense of satiety, making it easier for individuals to control their portion sizes and make healthier food choices.

How Tirzepatide Works for Weight Loss

Tirzepatide, a novel weight-loss medication, operates through a unique dual mechanism of action targeting both the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors. By activating these receptors, Tirzepatide modulates multiple pathways involved in appetite regulation and glucose metabolism. 

Firstly, Tirzepatide stimulates the GLP-1 receptor, leading to decreased appetite and increased feelings of fullness. This is similar to Semaglutide, but Tirzepatide offers the added benefit of simultaneously activating the GIP receptor. GIP plays a role in regulating energy metabolism and promoting insulin secretion, contributing to improved glycemic control. By targeting both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, Tirzepatide offers a comprehensive approach to weight management, addressing both appetite control and metabolic regulation.

Comparing Semaglutide and Tirzepatide

Both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are incredibly powerful weight-loss medications that can curb appetite, delay gastric emptying, and help you stick to a low-calorie diet. However, their potential results are slightly different, because Tirzepatide also works on the GIP receptors. Below, we discuss the effectiveness of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide in weight management.

Weight-loss medication can be a great tool to help you reach your weight-loss goals, along with healthy lifestyle habits.

Semaglutide Effectiveness in Weight Management

Semaglutide has been available on the market longer than Tirzepatide and has undergone more extensive clinical studies. Studies have shown that Semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss, with participants experiencing an average weight reduction ranging from 10% to 15% of their initial body weight. This substantial weight loss makes Semaglutide a compelling option for individuals struggling with obesity and related health conditions.

Tirzepatide Effectiveness in Weight Management

Tirzepatide, with its dual action on both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors, holds promise as a potentially more effective weight-loss medication. Clinical trials have demonstrated that Tirzepatide can lead to even greater weight loss compared to Semaglutide, with participants experiencing weight reductions of up to 20% of their initial body weight. This enhanced efficacy may make Tirzepatide an attractive option for individuals who have not achieved significant weight loss with other medications or lifestyle modifications.

Side Effects of Weight-Loss Medications

Like any medication, weight-loss drugs can cause side effects. Common side effects of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. These symptoms typically diminish over time as the body adjusts to these medications. Most providers start patients off with low doses of these medications to give the body the time to adjust before gradually increasing the dose. It’s essential to report any adverse reactions to your provider.

Tips to Manage Side Effects of Weight-Loss Medications:

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help alleviate symptoms like nausea.
  • Eat small, frequent meals to help mitigate gastrointestinal discomfort.
  • Include high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.
  • Monitor blood sugar levels, as weight-loss medications can affect glucose metabolism.
  • Start with low-intensity exercises and gradually increase intensity to minimize fatigue.
  • Report any adverse reactions or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly.
  • Take medications with meals or at specific times of the day to reduce side effecs.
  • Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues and avoid overeating or rapid consumption of food.

Who Should Consider Semaglutide and Tirzepatide

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are typically recommended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher or a BMI of 27 or higher with comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes. However, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are extremely versatile medications which can also be used by individuals who have struggled to lose weight through traditional lifestyle changes alone. Furthermore, these medications can also be used by individuals who want to maintain a healthy weight and avoid overeating and weight gain.

You May Be a Candidate for Semaglutide and Tirzepatide If:

  • Your body mass index (BMI) is 30 or higher
  • Your BMI is 27 or higher and you have comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes
  • You have struggled to achieve significant weight loss with lifestyle modifications alone
  • You are committed to making lifestyle changes to support weight-loss efforts
  • Your provider determines that the benefits outweigh the risks for your individual case
  • You are at risk of weight gain due to hormonal imbalances or lifestyle changes
  • You have a history of yo-yo dieting and are seeking a long-term solution for weight management
  • You are motivated to take proactive steps to prevent future weight gain

You May NOT Be a Candidate for Semaglutide and Tirzepatide If:

  • You have a history of pancreatitis or severe gastrointestinal disorders
  • You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
  • You have a history of thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
  • You have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Semaglutide or Tirzepatide
  • You have a history of severe renal impairment or end-stage renal disease
  • You are currently using other weight-loss medications or undergoing treatments for obesity
  • You have a history of eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa
  • You are unable or unwilling to comply with the necessary lifestyle changes
While weight-loss medication can help you lose a great deal of weight, it’s also important to eat a nutritious diet, stay hydrated, and be active.

Lifestyle Changes with Weight-Loss Drugs

While weight-loss medications can help shed pounds, they should be complemented by healthy lifestyle changes. That’s because Semaglutide and Tirzepatide don’t cause weight loss directly. Instead, they allow you to stick to low-calorie diets more comfortably and address the factors that usually lead to weight regain, such as hunger pangs and cravings. The only way to lose weight is by maintaining a calorie deficit, which can be done through physical activities and a balanced diet. As such, weight-loss medications must be a part of a comprehensive weight-loss plan.

Lifestyle Changes to Boost Weight-Loss Results:

  • Incorporate at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
  • Consume nutrient-dense foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
  • Use smaller plates and measure serving sizes to manage portion sizes.
  • Minimize consumption of processed and high-calorie foods, such as sugary snacks.
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and prevent mistaking thirst for hunger.
  • Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to support weight loss and overall health.
  • Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation and deep breathing exercises.
  • Keep a food diary, monitor physical activity, and track weight-loss progress.
  • Join a weight-loss group and enlist the help of a friend or family member to stay motivated.

Patient Experiences with Weight-Loss Medications

Listening to the experiences of others who have tried Semaglutide or Tirzepatide can provide valuable insights. Sharing experiences and support within a community or with healthcare professionals can be beneficial.

Testimonials from Real Patients:

  • “ShedRx was easy and pocket-friendly. I got my compounded medication almost immediately after my appointment. I took my first shot Monday, and as of Friday, I’m 6lbs down! I have normal energy, no shakes or jitters, and feel perfectly fine, just not hungry. This is awesome!” — Trina
  • “I highly recommend ShedRx. The customer service has been amazing. I have been taking Semaglutide for five weeks and have already lost 13 pounds. I am excited to continue the journey!” — Shanna
  • “I’ve been using the medication for almost three weeks and have lost 9 pounds!” — Linda

Weight-loss medications such as Semaglutide and Tirzepatide can be valuable tools in managing obesity and excess weight. It’s important to understand their mechanisms of action, potential risks and benefits, and the importance of lifestyle modifications. By working closely with healthcare providers and making informed decisions, you can achieve successful and sustainable weight loss with these medications. If you’re prepared to initiate your weight-loss journey, submit your application to get started!

Semaglutide helps to curb appetite and gain control over cravings to aid weight loss.

ShedRx

Related Topics

At ShedRx, we are wholly focused on Health for Every Body—this is our North Star when making any and all decisions. Our priority is always your health, experience, and outcomes. We’re committed to providing the most effective solutions at affordable prices.

As many of you know, recent updates from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the drug shortage list have impacted the availability of certain compounded medications, primarily Tirzepatide. Because of these changes, some compounded forms of injectable Tirzepatide may soon no longer be available from pharmacies.

What Does This Mean for You?
At ShedRx, we are working closely with our pharmacy partners to ensure you continue to receive the care you need. For current customers, your Tirzepatide subscription remains unchanged at this time and we will continue to fulfill your orders. However, given these FDA updates, we recommend exploring alternative options now for a seamless transition as injectable Tirzepatide formulations become unavailable in the near future.

We are excited to offer new formulations of Tirzepatide, such as sublingual lozenges and oral liquid drops, which are effective and provide convenient alternatives to injections. Additionally, we encourage you to consider transitioning to one of our Semaglutide programs, which has been a proven option for weight loss. If you elect to change to a Semaglutide program, you’ll receive a 5% monthly discount and a free bottle of GLP-1 Boost!

What If I Want to Switch Programs Now?

If you’re interested in transitioning to a different program now, our team is here to help. To begin the process, please contact our Care Team who will work with your ShedRx provider to review your health history and assist you in finding the best alternative treatment option for your individual needs. Whether this means switching to one of our sublingual Tirzepatide lozenges, oral liquid drops, or transitioning to a Semaglutide program, we’ll make sure you have the support you need to make the right decision for your health and weight-loss goals.

Why Choose Our Options?

  • Affordability: We recognize the importance of affordability in your healthcare decisions. That’s why our alternative formulations are priced competitively to help you continue receiving effective treatments without added financial strain.
  • Effectiveness: Both our new Tirzepatide offerings and Semaglutide programs have track records of success. Additionally, our new GLP-1 Boost supplement has been shown in clinical trials to naturally increase GLP-1 levels by over 15%, supporting your weight-loss journey alongside these medications. Whether you choose to remain with Tirzepatide or switch to Semaglutide, you can feel confident knowing that you are using solutions proven to work.
  • Convenience: Our alternative Tirzepatide formulations, including easy-to-use sublingual lozenges and oral drops, provide flexibility and convenience while maintaining the effectiveness. These options make it simple to continue your treatment routine with minimal disruption.

About Compounded Tirzepatide Access
We understand that some of you may be concerned about accessing compounded Tirzepatide elsewhere. It’s important to note that these FDA regulations affect all companies and pharmacies nationwide. While you might encounter offers from other sources, filling prescriptions for compounded Tirzepatide outside FDA guidelines may not comply with current regulations. We want to keep you informed so you have the most up-to-date information regarding your healthcare options.

ShedRx’s Approach

At ShedRx, our mission is to help you reach your weight-loss goals through the best available products. That’s why we consistently strive to pair impactful medications with supplements like GLP-1 Boost and comprehensive coaching programs. We are committed to providing the tools and support you need to succeed on your journey.

Please reach out to our Care Team if you’d like to explore any of these options or if you have questions. We’re here to make your experience with ShedRx feel seamless, supported, and focused on your success.

For more information, visit our Help Center or contact our support team directly.

GLP-1 Boost is officially available through ShedRx! We’re here to go over the ins and outs of this weight-loss supplement, so you feel confident and ready to take advantage of this beneficial tool for your weight-loss journey.

What is GLP-1 Boost?

GLP-1 Boost is a supplement designed to enhance what your natural GLP-1s (glucagon-like peptide-1s) already do—help regulate blood sugar and appetite. It provides an alternative to injections, while still reaching your weight-loss goals. Each ingredient in Boost has been researched to work together and promote optimal metabolic health and support weight management. These ingredients include:

-Eriomin – A lemon-flavonoid antioxidant which encourages GLP-1 production and supports insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and gut health
-Berberine – Comes from Berberis aristata plant bark and helps enhance glucose metabolism and GLP-1 levels for better blood sugar control and reduced cravings
-Capsaicin – The active compound in chili peppers, boosts metabolism, curbs appetite and supports fat burning
-Vitamin B12 – Essential for energy production and a well-functioning metabolism in its bioavailable form

How does GLP-1 Boost work?

GLP-1 Boost provides production support. It stimulates your body’s own production of GLP-1, the hormone crucial for regulating appetite and glucose metabolism. With an increase in GLP-1s, appetite is then decreased and gastric emptying slows down. Because of these effects, the feeling of fullness lasts longer, which means it becomes more manageable to eat in a caloric deficit and shed pounds.

GLP-1 Boost can have a major impact on weight loss.

Why do I care about GLP-1 Boost?

Along with appetite control, GLP-1s play a major role in regulating glucose and insulin sensitivity. By supporting your body’s natural production of GLP-1s, you allow for sustainable weight loss and better metabolic health. In addition, food noise and cravings decrease, making it easier to control previous poor food habits, with less temptation, and increase weight loss.

From three published human clinical trials over 12 weeks, it was found that GLP-1 pathways and insulin sensitivity improved by 15%, insulin resistance decreased by 7%, and blood glucose levels were reduced by 5%. Another study, conducted by Supresa throughout eight weeks, showed decreased hunger by 69%, decreased appetite by 70%, and decrease in snacking events by 55%. This data shows the impact GLP-1 Boost can have on an individuals weight-loss journey.

Who can benefit from GLP-1 Boost?

Didn’t qualify for weight-loss medication? Wanting to curb cravings? Seeking weight loss at a slower pace? GLP-1 Boost is a great alternative for those who aren’t quite there with taking weight-loss medication, but still seeking for something that can help reach their goals. Whether for weight loss or simply to reduce food chatter, it can provide the kickstart you need to a healthier you.

How can I get GLP-1 Boost?

Now available online through the ShedRx store, GLP-1 Boost can be ordered right to your door! The weight-loss supplement is to be taken three times daily, 30 minutes before meals. We can’t wait to see what GLP-1 Boost can do for your weight-loss journey!

Why is there a temporary order processing delay?

At ShedRx, we’re always working to improve the quality of care and service we provide to you. As part of our commitment to enhancing your experience, we’ve recently upgraded our order management system to increase efficiency and ensure faster processing of every order. While this change will ultimately allow us to process orders in half the time, it has caused a temporary delay in order fulfillment.

How long will this delay last?

We expect this delay to be resolved within the next five business days. Once the transition is complete, you’ll notice a significant improvement in how quickly your orders are processed.

Who can help me?

In the meantime, if your order has been delayed, rest assured that our Care Team will work with you to adjust any future billing dates to account for this. For assistance, feel free to message our Care Team or email us. Our response time is 24-48 hours.

Our Care Team is working hard to respond to messages as quickly as possible. Please note, they work through messages in order of receipt, meaning that consecutive messages may cause further delays in response time. For more information, please reference the Help Center.

Will ShedRx do anything else for me during this time?

To thank you for your patience during this time, we will be crediting your account with $20. This statement credit will automatically apply to future ShedRx orders.

You can use this credit towards a discount on next month’s medication. This is our way of showing appreciation for your understanding and continued trust in ShedRx.

Thank you for your understanding and continued trust in ShedRx.

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