GLP-1 medications have changed the landscape of weight loss treatment. If you’re exploring options to help you lose weight through a trusted telehealth provider, you’ve likely come across two names: Semaglutide and Tirzepatide. While both are powerful tools, they have key differences. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what sets them apart—so you can make the best decision for your body, goals, and lifestyle.

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 receptor agonists are medications that mimic a hormone naturally produced in your body. This hormone helps regulate appetite, blood sugar, and digestion. By supporting these functions, GLP-1 medications can reduce hunger, increase feelings of fullness, and promote gradual, consistent weight loss.

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are both weekly injectable medications that fall under this category—but with a few important distinctions.

Semaglutide: A Trusted, Proven Option

Semaglutide is the active ingredient in Wegovy® (FDA-approved for weight loss) and Ozempic® (approved for diabetes). It’s one of the most studied and widely used GLP-1 medications on the market.

What to Know About Semaglutide:

• It works by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone to reduce appetite and slow digestion.
• Typically administered once a week via subcutaneous injection.
• Gradual dose increases are used to help minimize side effects like nausea.
• Many patients begin to see meaningful weight loss results within the first few months.
• It’s available through both branded and compounded formulations, which can make it more accessible.

Tirzepatide: A Next-Generation Approach

Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Zepbound™ (approved for weight loss) and Mounjaro® (approved for diabetes). It’s newer than Semaglutide and works in a dual-action way by activating both GLP-1 and another hormone called GIP, which also plays a role in appetite and metabolism.

What to Know About Tirzepatide:

• Its dual-action mechanism may offer even greater weight loss results for some patients.
• Like Semaglutide, it’s administered weekly as a subcutaneous injection.
• It may cause more gastrointestinal side effects for some people, such as nausea or bloating.
• Because it’s newer, it’s currently only available in brand-name form, which can affect affordability.
• Due to recent FDA rulings, Tirzepatide can no longer be compounded, which limits lower-cost options.

Which Medication Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick summary of the key differences:

• Semaglutide is ideal for patients seeking a well-researched, effective option with a range of accessible formats (including compounded versions).
• Tirzepatide may offer faster or more dramatic results for some people, but may not be as widely available or affordable.
• Both medications are dosed weekly and can help you reduce appetite, improve blood sugar control, and support sustainable fat loss.
  

Ultimately, the right choice comes down to your unique health history, weight loss goals, tolerance to side effects, and budget. A licensed provider at Belle will help guide you toward the option that’s best suited to your needs.

Why Use Telehealth for GLP-1 Treatment?

Getting started with weight loss medication has never been more convenient. With Belle’s telehealth program, you can:

• Meet with a licensed provider from the comfort of home
• Complete a medical intake and get a prescription, if eligible
• Have your medication shipped directly to your door
• Receive ongoing support and dosage adjustments as needed
  

There’s no need to visit a clinic or pharmacy. Your care is private, streamlined, and personalized every step of the way.

Start Your Weight Loss Journey with Confidence

Both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are highly effective GLP-1 medications that can help you achieve real results—without extreme diets or invasive procedures. Through Belle’s telehealth program, we make the process safe, simple, and entirely focused on you.

If you’re ready to take the next step, book your virtual consultation today. We’ll help you find the right path forward.