• Prompts the body to release more insulin, which in turn lowers blood sugar
• Delays stomach emptying
• Inhibits glucagon release (glucagon increases blood sugar)
• Optimizes the digestion and absorption of nutrients
• In higher amounts, it interacts with the part of the brain that reduces appetite and signals a feeling of fullness

• Increases insulin levels
• Reduces acid secretion in the stomach
• Increases fat utilization

One study in the New England Journal of Medicine looked at weight loss in a group of 2,500 obese adults without diabetes over 72 weeks. The tirzepatide group saw an average loss of 21% of their total body weight as compared to a 3.1% loss with a placebo. Additional studies show comparable results, but also show that people can gain weight back after stopping injections. Therefore, long term use  may be necessary for some people to keep lost weight off. It is important to remember that obesity is chronic and complex, and often requires lifelong treatment to keep under control.

The side effects of tirzepatide are often mild, and may not be experienced by all. They can include:

• Gastrointestinal Issues (Diarrhea, Constipation, Gassiness)
• Stomach Issues (Nausea, Bloating)

All side effects can be treated with over the counter remedies. Side effects should never be debilitating. If you experience vomiting, or are unable to go about your normal activities, please call the doctor’s office.

While 15mg is the recommended dose for optimal weight loss, the dosage must be increased slowly to avoid serious side effects. Therefore, we increase dosage every four weeks as tolerated, and as long as muscle mass is consistently maintained. While this is the typical schedule, dosage increase is never mandatory; we encourage the continuation of a dose for as long as it is effective.

The typical dosage schedule and pricing is as follows:

2.5mg x 4 weeks at $100/week
5mg x 4 weeks at $125/week
7.5mg x 4 weeks at $150/week
10mg x 4 weeks at $175/week
12.5mg x 4 weeks at $200/week
15mg x as long as needed at $225/week

There is currently very little guidance on cessation of tirzepatide. In general, we recommend tapering the dosages back down to the lowest dose to let your body adjust properly. Keep in mind that obesity is a complex condition that is chronic; therefore lifelong treatment is often the best course of action to prevent weight regain. You may always request to speak with one of our providers if you have questions regarding this.

*Tirzepatide packages are available for a discounted monthly cost at the Spring location.

You are not eligible to receive tirzepatide if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a family history of medullary thyroid cancer, have a personal history of gallbladder disease, a personal history of pancreatitis, or if you have been diagnosed with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2). Type 1 diabetics should consult with their endocrinologist before taking tirzepatide.

Both medications target the body’s GLP-1 receptors, but tirzepatide contains an additional peptide that targets the body’s glucagon receptors. Studies have found that because of this dual action, tirzepatide may be more effective for weight loss. It is important to remember, though, that everyone is different and responds differently to medication. Additionally, tirzepatide is much more expensive than semaglutide. Because of this, we usually recommend starting with semaglutide to see if it is sufficient to meet your weight loss goals. You may always request to speak with one of our providers if you need additional help deciding which medication to take.