Tirzepatide

Overview

Historically, losing weight has been challenging, and many people have struggled despite their best efforts to adhere to a healthy lifestyle, consisting of proper diet and exercise. As a result, there are numerous products and treatments available to the public that promise results, but many treatments come with unpleasant side effects or are simply ineffective. In recent years, however, GLP-1 medications have completely transformed the process of losing weight, with revolutionary medications such as tirzepatide helping people drop pounds quickly and effectively. (1) Tirzepatide is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and GLP-1 receptor agonist medication originally designed to treat people with type 2 diabetes which has since gained traction as an effective weight loss medication.

About Tirzepatide

Tirzepatide, also known as Mounjaro or Zepbound, is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It is a once-weekly injectable medication designed originally to help regulate blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes but has recently been touted for its ability to aid in weight loss for adults with obesity or weight-related conditions. Tirzepatide works by mimicking the actions of natural hormones which give patients a feeling of satiety and regulate blood sugar levels, making it easier for them to avoid overeating.

While many traditional weight loss approaches merely rely on diet and exercise, tirzepatide helps patients lose weight on a hormonal level by targeting the biological mechanisms that make losing weight difficult. By getting to the root cause of the problem, this dual-action medication is particularly effective for individuals who have struggled to achieve significant results through conventional methods.

Benefits

The primary benefit of tirzepatide is that it facilitates weight loss. Through addressing the underlying hormonal and metabolic factors that contribute to obesity and weight-related conditions, tirzepatide can provide a range of benefits that include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Decreased risk of weight-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and joint pain.

  • Enhanced energy levels and mobility.

  • Improved blood sugar control and overall metabolic health.

  • Faster and more effective weight loss.

  • Silenced “food noise;” the persistent mental focus on food and eating.

  • Improved self-confidence and quality of life.

Losing weight opens the door to a new and improved life for many patients, e.g., not only does it help reduce the risk of obesity-related conditions, but it also helps encourage individuals to live an overall healthier lifestyle, as it becomes easier for them to adopt healthy habits such as a proper exercise routine. As one begins to see results, they will often be met with a newfound sense of confidence that directly correlates with an increase in mental well-being and improvements in their quality of life.

Ideal Candidates

While tirzepatide can help many individuals achieve their health goals, whether or not you are an ideal candidate for tirzepatide depends on a variety of factors. Tirzepatide is an excellent option for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher, or patients who are suffering from at least one weight-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. Ideal candidates are those with realistic expectations about what they can achieve with medically-supervised weight loss treatments such as tirzepatide. Candidates should be willing to make healthy lifestyle changes to support their medical weight loss program.

Personal Consultation

Your journey toward a healthier life with advanced weight loss treatments begins with a personal consultation with Dr. Imola or Dr. Kowalczyk. The Aesthetics by Design team emphasizes a patient-centered approach, and this consultation will serve as a way for our staff to get to know you and understand what you hope to accomplish with weight loss treatments. This consultation is a great time to ask any questions you might have about tirzepatide, weight loss, or any other questions related to your treatment.

During this consultation, Dr. Imola or Dr. Kowalczyk will evaluate your medical history, including past weight loss efforts and any underlying health conditions, and may conduct several assessments to determine whether or not tirzepatide is right for you. Our team will also discuss your weight loss goals and motivations behind seeking treatment.

Once your providers have gained an understanding of you, your current health status, and health and fitness goals, they will create a personalized treatment plan designed specifically to help you achieve your aspirations. This treatment plan will outline what to expect when starting tirzepatide and help you feel confident about moving forward with weight loss treatments. This consultation can potentially be a life-changing step toward achieving your health goals, so do not hesitate to schedule yours today.

Preparation

Tirzepatide is a nonsurgical weight loss treatment, therefore the preparation process will be minimal. It is possible that before starting treatment, Dr. Imola or Dr. Kowalczyk will ask you to refrain from using certain medications to avoid interactions. Any specific instructions about the necessary steps you must take before beginning tirzepatide will be given to you in detail by your provider.

The Treatment Process

One of the key benefits of tirzepatide is how easy the treatment process is for most individuals. If you are determined to be an ideal candidate for tirzepatide, our team will guide you through the treatment process. Tirzepatide is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection. You will receive comprehensive instructions on how to self-administer the medication at home, ensuring convenience and ease of use. If patients wish, they can have their first few injections administered at the Aesthetics by Design office to gain an understanding of how to properly administer the medication.

Dr. Imola or Dr. Kowalczyk will monitor your progress closely during the first few weeks of treatments to ensure you are reacting well to the medication. It is advised that you make regular follow-up appointments to assess your progress and allow your provider to make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

After Injections

Unlike bariatric surgeries, tirzepatide is a minimally invasive treatment. Patients can resume their day-to-day activities immediately after they administer their treatment. Patients may, however, experience some side effects such as nausea or gastrointestinal issues. This is a common and natural response to the medication during the initial stages of treatment but will subside as your body becomes accustomed to the medication. If side effects continue or become too severe, contact your professional so they can adjust your dose.

Results

Patients should have realistic expectations about what they can achieve with tirzepatide treatment, and recognize that it is merely a tool that can help them achieve their goals alongside practicing healthy lifestyle habits.

Weight loss treatments such as tirzepatide can yield promising weight loss results. Assuming patients live a healthy lifestyle, many patients can expect to potentially experience noticeable weight loss. Patients taking tirzepatide can lose up to 15-20% of their total body weight over time. (2)

Semaglutide

Alongside tirzepatide, semaglutide has also gained popularity as a successful weight-loss medication. Like tirzepatide, semaglutide is administered weekly. Unlike tirzepatide, however, semaglutide is only a GLP-1 receptor agonist. Semaglutide, often better known under the brand names of Ozempic and Wegovy, works in a way that is similar to tirzepatide; suppressing feelings of hunger, slowing gastric emptying, and adjusting the levels of digestive hormones to keep patients fuller and satisfied for longer from smaller portions of food. During your consultation, Dr. Imola or Dr. Kowalczyk will determine if semaglutide or tirzepatide is better for your case.

Cost of Tirzepatide in Colorado

The cost of tirzepatide treatment is highly dependent on the individual treatment plan. Factors such as dosage and the length of your treatment will factor into the total cost. Dr. Imola and Dr. Kowalczyk will be happy to give you an estimated cost during your personal consultation. Aesthetics by Design does offer financing options to those who qualify.

We are excited to assist you in this next step of your weight loss journey. Schedule your consultation today to begin planning your tirzepatide regimen. If you have any further questions, please call our Englewood office at Semaglutide

Frequently Asked Questions

Is injecting tirzepatide difficult or painful?

Patients typically report feeling nothing more than a small prick when injecting their tirzepatide each week. We will walk you through the entire process and ensure that you fully understand it.

How can I lose weight on tirzepatide?

While taking tirzepatide, patients feel fuller and more satiated after consuming much smaller portions, allowing for easier weight loss. The medication helps regulate insulin release and the speed of digestion as well. It is important to form healthy dieting and exercise habits to optimize your results.

How long do I need to take tirzepatide?

The length of your treatment is up to you. Once patients achieve their target weight, many will go on a maintenance dose. Some patients choose to discontinue the medication entirely.

References

  1. Rodriguez PJ, Goodwin Cartwright BM, Gratzl S, et al. Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide for Weight Loss in Adults With Overweight or Obesity. JAMA Internal Medicine. Published online July 8, 2024. doi:https://doi.org/10.1001/jamainternmed.2024.2525

  2. Lin F, Yu B, Ling B, et al. Weight loss efficiency and safety of tirzepatide: A Systematic review. PloS One. 2023;18(5):e0285197. doi:https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0285197to gather any information you need.