What Is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics a natural hormone in your body that controls blood sugar and appetite. This medication is used to manage type 2 diabetes and is also used for weight loss. Semaglutide is also used for chronic weight management, weight management for obesity as a long term condition.

What Is Ozempic?

Ozempic is the brand name for Semaglutide. It’s an injectable medication used once a week to control blood sugars in type 2 diabetes. Other forms are Rybelsus (oral) and Wegovy (for weight management). The effectiveness of Ozempic is weight dependent as studies have shown that losing weight can enhance its benefits and reduce cardiovascular risk.

How Is Mounjaro Different for Diabetes?

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is like Semaglutide but with a twist. It targets two different receptors in your body making it more effective in controlling blood sugars and weight loss. Think of it as a two for one solution that has more benefits. Mounjaro also reduces cardiovascular disease like Semaglutide reduces cardiovascular death, heart attack and stroke.

Key Differences and Similarities

Mechanism of Action on Blood Sugar

• Semaglutide/Ozempic: Increases insulin secretion, decreases glucagon release and slows gastric emptying.
• Mounjaro: Targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, more effects on insulin secretion and appetite suppression.

These medications along with others like insulin, sulfonylureas, Jardiance, Farxiga, Invokana help treat diabetes by controlling blood sugars and addressing different aspects of the disease.

Effectiveness

• Semaglutide/Ozempic: Proven to lower HbA1c and aid in weight loss. Studies have shown participants on Semaglutide had a significant percentage change in body weight which contributed to its cardiovascular risk reduction.
• Mounjaro: Shows even more promise with greater HbA1c reduction and more weight loss in clinical trials.

Side Effects

• Semaglutide/Ozempic: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation. Medullary thyroid cancer risk.
• Mounjaro: Same side effects but more so due to its dual action.

Which Weight Loss Medication is Right for You?

Choosing between Semaglutide (Ozempic) and Mounjaro depends on your health, medical history and treatment goals. Talk to your healthcare provider to see which one is best for your diabetes and weight. Must talk to a healthcare provider to be eligible, manage side effects and determine if these medications are right for your health conditions.

Meaningful Wellness & Aesthetics Bayside, NY

At Meaningful Wellness & Aesthetics we offer:

• Ozempic (Semaglutide): For blood sugar control and weight management.
• Mounjaro (Tirzepatide): For better glycemic control and more weight loss.

Our team will work with you to create a personalized medication and treatment plan to achieve your health goals safely. Must talk to a healthcare provider to manage side effects and determine if these medications are right for your health conditions.

Costs and Insurance

Knowing the costs is important. Here’s what you need to know:

• Insurance: Most major insurances including Medicare and Medicaid cover these medications, so out of pocket costs are minimal.
• Out of Pocket: Without insurance costs are high but many manufacturers have savings programs and discounts for eligible patients.
• Consultation: At Meaningful Wellness & Aesthetics we help our patients navigate insurance coverage and explore financial assistance programs to make it affordable. Patient assistance programs for prescription drugs are also available to help with costs.

Summary

Semaglutide and Ozempic are the same medication, Ozempic is the branded version for type 2 diabetes. Both have benefits for diabetes and weight loss. Mounjaro is an option with more benefits due to its dual action. Talk to a healthcare provider to see which one is right for you. And always combine with a low calorie diet to achieve weight loss and reduce risk of cardiovascular death, heart attack and stroke in obese or overweight adults with cardiovascular disease.