Medical weight loss has grown in popularity because of highly discussed medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. Numerous drugs have entered the arena of treating the management of weight, obesity, and diabetes. Many of these share a common active ingredient: Semaglutide.
With new options popping up every year, ongoing studies are exploring the efficacy of various active ingredients, determining which ones work faster and better and why some appear more effective for some patients than others.
Here is a comparison of the ingredients that comprise each of these medical weight-loss solutions.
Semaglutide – Found in Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus
Semaglutide, a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1) agonist, was initially developed for type 2 diabetes treatment in 2017. Its variants, Ozempic and Wegovy, serve different purposes: Ozempic is intended for diabetes management with a maximum dose of 2 mg, while Wegovy targets obesity with a full dose of 2.4 mg. Rybelsus is available in daily pill form for diabetes management.
The action of Semaglutide revolves around activating GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas. This activation reduces appetite and delayed glucose absorption due to slower gastric emptying. Simply, it mimics a hormone (GLP-1) that helps your body process food, lowering blood sugar levels and slowing digestion to make you feel full longer, consequently aiding weight loss.
Liraglutide – Found in Saxenda and Victoza
Liraglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist akin to Semaglutide, requires daily injections vs weekly. Saxenda is marketed for obesity treatment, while Victoza, the brand name for liraglutide, is intended for diabetes management.
Tirzepatide – Found in Mounjaro
Tirzepatide is a dual agonist, affecting two weight-regulating hormones, GLP-1 and GIP (gastric inhibitory peptide). FDA approved in 2022 for type 2 diabetes; it awaits approval for overweight patients. Patients start with a weekly injection of 2.5 mg and can increase the dosage up to 15 mg for better glycemic control. Tirzepatide has shown remarkable efficacy, with clinical trials reporting weight loss of 26% on average for adults after 88 weeks of treatment.
Retatrutide – In Clinical Trials
Retatrutide, still in clinical trials, holds promise as the most effective medication for obesity treatment. As a triple agonist, it targets GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors. Phase 2 trials have shown similar to better weight loss results than tirzepatide and semaglutide.
Choosing A Weight Loss Medication
Choosing one medication over another depends on several factors, including cost, potential side effects, and patient preferences. Results vary with each patient, as individual factors, genetics, and biology play a significant role in treatment response.
In practice, some patients may lose weight more effectively with one medication than another due to differences in the number of hormones targeted in their mechanisms of action. Clinical trials are underway to understand these distinctions better.
Whether you opt for a brand-name drug or a compounded version depends on factors like availability, cost, and additional ingredients to minimize muscle loss during weight loss. Combining these medications with a tailored diet can yield better results.
Weight-loss drugs offer hope to those seeking practical solutions to personalized weight management. It’s crucial to consult with healthcare professionals to determine the most suitable medication based on individual needs and circumstances. Consider potential side effects and ask about safety factors before starting any medication regimen.
For further questions and information on personalized weight management solutions, contact our clinic in Sherman Oaks!
