SEMAGLUTIDE AND TIRZEPATIDE BASICS

Semaglutide, sold under the brand names Ozempic (FDA approved 2017), Wegovy (FDA approved 2021) & Rybelsus (FDA approved 2019) is a active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) from the class of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (more on that in a bit!). It is an API in FDA-approved medications used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and long-term weight management. 

Tirzepatide, sold under the brand name Mounjaro (FDA approved 2022) is a newer
API that falls into a different class known as glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and GLP-1 receptor agonists. It is an API in FDA-approved medication used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Doctors can prescribe compounded tirzepatide off-label for weight loss purposes. Off-label prescribing is when a provider gives you a drug that the FDA has approved to treat a condition different from your condition. That might sound odd, but it is legal and common. In fact, 1 in 5 prescriptions today are prescribed off-label! In the near future, tirzepatide may be approved for weight loss as the API is currently going through the FDA approval process. 

HOW SEMAGLUTIDE AND TIRZEPATIDE WORK

Semaglutide and tirzepatide are receptor agonists, drugs that bind to a specific cell receptor (like a key fitting into a lock) and trigger a response. Essentially, semaglutide and tirzepatide work by imitating the functions of certain hormones in our body.

Semaglutide mimics the activity of GLP-1, a hormone naturally released by your gut in response to food. GLP-1 helps regulate appetite and blood sugar levels in the body. Tirzepatide not only mimics GLP-1, but also mimics GIP, a hormone that enhances the release of insulin following food intake. In the brain, both GIP and GLP‐1 are thought to be involved in controlling appetite. 

By mimicking the effects of these hormones, semaglutide and tirzepatide reduce feelings of hunger and increase feelings of fullness, making it easier for individuals to lose weight.

What Semaglutide does:

Brain

• Increases synaptic transmission, nerve protection, memory, neuronal stem cell proliferation, motor function, & satiety

• Decreases neuroinflammation

CVD (cardiovascular disease)

• Increases CVD protection, heart rate, anti-inflammatory actions

• Improves endothelial function, myocardial ischemia, lipids

Liver

• Decreased glucose production, liver fat content, liver enzymes, & hepatic steatosis

Pancreas

• Increases insulin secretion

• Increases & protects pancreatic β cells

Gut

• Decreased gastric emptying & peristalsis, thus increasing nutrient absorption & normalizes PPG (postprandial glucose) elevations

Note: It is important to have a healthy gut for optimal nutrient absorption & hormone balance 

What Tirzepatide does:

• Stimulate pancreatic β cells insulin release

• Note: in DM (diabetes mellitus) patients GIP secretion is reduced, however, can be restored by improving glycemic control

• GIP: Protects against hypoglycemia; improves TG (triglyceride) clearance; improves adipose insulin sensitivity, which may prevent ectopic fat deposition

ARE SEMAGLUTIDE AND TIRZEPATIDE EFFECTIVE FOR WEIGHT LOSS?

Recent studies have indicated that semaglutide and tirzepatide can be effective tools for weight loss when combined with lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise. A recent clinical study showed that people using semaglutide lost an average of 15% of their body weight after 68 weeks. That's like an individual who weighs 200 pounds losing 30 pounds in about 16 months! 

Even more striking, a recent study showed those using tirzepatide observed an average weight loss of 21% of their body weight over a span of 72 weeks. Imagine someone who weighs 200 pounds shedding more than 40 pounds in 17 months!

Side Effects of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide

Like any medication, semaglutide and tirzepatide can cause side effects. These side effects tend to occur when first starting the medication, or when increasing the dose. This is the reason that patients slowly increase their dosage over time, giving the body a chance to adjust to the medication. 

The most common side effects of semaglutide and tirzepatide include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Constipation

• Stomach Pain

There can be serious side effects to both drugs as well, including:

• Pancreatitis

• Hypoglycemia

• Gallbladder Problems

• Allergic Reactions

• Kidney Failure

• Vision Changes

If you are taking either of these peptides and have a severe reaction, seek medical help immediately. 

People may experience more side effects with semaglutide compared to tirzepatide, according to one study. At the highest dose of each drug, 88% of subjects experienced any adverse side effects with semaglutide, whereas 64% of subjects on tirzepatide had side effects. With both drugs, gastrointestinal problems were the most common and it was tolerable for most patients. They were also more common in the days following a dosage increase. 

SEMAGLUTIDE AND TIRZEPATIDE ARE BEST SUPPORTED BY LIFESTYLE CHANGES

Semaglutide and tirzepatide make it easier to lose weight and adopt healthy habits. However, while they can be powerful tools in weight management, these medications won’t guarantee long-term results without an overall health strategy. This includes: 

• A balanced diet: Adopting a mindful eating strategy is crucial for long term success. We recommend minimizing sugar and processed foods while emphasizing protein, fiber, and healthy fats. These changes combined with the medication will improve your overall health. 

• Quality sleep: Getting better sleep is important for our metabolic health. Individuals should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep every night to aid weight loss.

• Regular exercise: Regular exercise has a big impact on your overall health. Cardio and strength training are both important to keep your heart, lungs, muscles, and bones healthy.. 

• Stress management: Stress is bad for all of us and can have an impact on our physical and mental health. Stress also affects hormones, which, as we know, can affect your weight. Adopting stress management techniques can go a long way. 

• Foods to Avoid: Fried, greasy, fatty foods, & foods high in sugar. These tend to be the toughest for your body to digest and the most likely to cause nausea. Eat slowly & eat smaller meals with foods that are light and bland. Drink clear or ice-cold drinks (like water or unsweetened tea) & limit alcohol intake

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT WITH ELLIEMD

The EllieMD Weight Management Program is convenient, discreet, and easy. Here’s how it works:

1. Complete a short assessment to see if you qualify. No doctor visit hassles or scheduling appointments.

2. A licensed medical practitioner will evaluate you and prescribe the medication, if approved.

3. Receive your medication right to your front door!

4. Take your measurements and watch the weight and fat come off. The mirror selfies will not lie!

5. EllieMD does ot take insurance but you may use your HSA or FSA cards.

When you choose EllieMD, you get more than just medication; you gain access to a dedicated team of healthcare professionals who are there to support you every step of the way. Our innovative platform makes it easy to connect with a licensed doctor whenever you need them. 

If you’re ready to start your weight loss journey learn more here.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the EllieMD Weight Management Program cost?

Our current Weight Management Program starts at $299 per month for semaglutide and $449 per month for tirzepatide, with an initial minimum subscription of 3 months. This price includes the cost of your medication and the doctor fee. Pricing may be subject to change after each 3 month billing cycle.

What weight loss options does EllieMD offer?

EllieMD currently offers semaglutide and tirzepatide.

How much weight can I expect to lose with the EllieMD Weight Management Program?

Semaglutide:
In 3 separate clinical trials involving non-diabetic patients, individuals who received semaglutide at a dose of 2.4 mg/week, along with following a reduced-calorie diet and increasing physical activity, experienced an average weight loss of 15% of their body weight over the course of 68 weeks. Source

Tirzepatide:
In a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial, individuals who received regular tirzepatide at a dose of 15mg/week, along with following a reduced-calorie diet and increasing physical activity, experienced an average weight loss of 21% over the course of 72 weeks. Source

What if I am not approved for the EllieMD Weight Management Program?

Our telehealth service operates similarly to a traditional clinic, where payment covers the time and attention provided by our healthcare providers during your appointment. It's important to understand that payment does not guarantee the provision of a prescription medication. In cases where approval for the EllieMD Weight Management Program is not granted, our healthcare providers may recommend alternative treatments that could be suitable for you.

If, for any reason, the EllieMD-affiliated provider determines that you are not eligible to purchase the medication, you will receive a refund, with a deduction of $90 for the consultation that took place.

What happens after the 3-month subscription period?

After each 3-month period, you will receive a reassessment to determine whether your current dosage should be maintained or adjusted. In the event that an change in your dosage is recommended, you will be moved to the appropriate tier, resulting in an adjustment to your subscription price. Additionally by agreeing to continue, you are committing to another 3-month subscription period.

Is a long-term contract required for the EllieMD Weight Management Program?

When you purchase the weight loss medication, you will receive a 90-day supply and be billed monthly for the entire 3-month period. If you decide to continue the medication after 3 months, you will receive another 90-day supply and be billed for the next 3 months. To enhance affordability and convenience, we have divided the payments into monthly installments.

By purchasing the product, you commit to a minimum of three months of payments for the initial 90-day supply. Please note that based on your state of residence and the pharmacy servicing you, shipments will range from 30 to 90 days.

When will I receive my next (after the first) shipment of medication?

Towards the conclusion of your initial 90-day period, a follow-up will be conducted with your provider to assess your progress and make any required adjustments. We will not ship your next 90-day supply until the reassessment quiz is completed and turned in for the doctor’s review. While you will be auto-renewed and billed for another 3 months, the prescription will be held at the pharmacy until the quiz is completed and turned in.

What are the different tiers of the EllieMD Weight Management Program?

The EllieMD Weight Management Program offers different tiers with varying prices and amounts of medication. These tiers exist because individuals may require different doses based on their specific needs. Factors such as weight, medical history, and response to the medication influence the recommended dosage. More information on pricing and dosage can be found for semaglutide and tirzepatide on their respective pages.