Medical Weight Loss

Semaglutide &
Tirzepatide

The most effective weight-loss medications ever studied, prescribed and supervised by a licensed provider, paired with the labs and coaching that make results last.

How GLP-1 weight loss works

Semaglutide and tirzepatide are weekly injectable medications that mimic gut hormones to reduce appetite, slow digestion, and help regulate blood sugar. The result is reduced hunger and food noise, making a sustainable calorie deficit far easier to maintain, which is why they produce far greater weight loss than diet and exercise alone.

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. Tirzepatide is a dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist, it acts on two appetite-regulating pathways instead of one, which is why it has produced even greater average weight loss in clinical trials.

Compare

Semaglutide vs. tirzepatide

Both are excellent options. The right one depends on your goals, your health profile, and your provider's recommendation.

 SemaglutideTirzepatide
Drug classGLP-1 agonistDual GLP-1 / GIP agonist
AdministrationWeekly injectionWeekly injection
Avg. weight loss (trial)~15% over 68 weeks~21% over 72 weeks
Trial referenceSTEP 1, NEJM (2021)SURMOUNT-1, NEJM (2022)
Best suited forSteady, sustainable lossHigher weight-loss goals
Common side effectsNausea, GI upset (usually temporary)Nausea, GI upset (usually temporary)

Figures are trial averages from published studies and do not predict individual results. Eligibility and dosing are determined by your provider.

The Evidence

What the trials actually showed.

Average body-weight change in the pivotal clinical trials. Tirzepatide produced greater average loss, though the right medication for you depends on your goals and your provider's guidance.

0% -10% -20% Week 0 Week 36 Week 72 -15% -21%
Semaglutide, STEP 1 (2021) Tirzepatide, SURMOUNT-1 (2022)
Average body-weight reduction from the pivotal trials (semaglutide over 68 weeks, tirzepatide at the highest dose over 72 weeks). Trial averages; individual results vary.

What treatment looks like at Elevra

At Elevra, medical weight loss begins with lab work and a provider consultation to confirm you're a candidate and rule out contraindications. Your provider then prescribes semaglutide or tirzepatide, starts you on a gradual dose-escalation schedule to minimize side effects, and monitors your progress with regular check-ins.

Eligibility & screening

Your provider reviews your health history, current medications, and goals, and screens for conditions where these medications aren't appropriate.

Gradual titration

Doses start low and increase over time. This step-up approach helps your body adjust and keeps the most common side effects, usually mild nausea, to a minimum.

Coaching that compounds

Medication does the heavy lifting on appetite; protein, resistance training, and habit support protect your muscle and make the results stick. Your provider helps you build the full picture.

Questions

Weight loss, answered

What's the difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide?
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist; tirzepatide is a dual GLP-1 and GIP agonist that works on two appetite pathways. Both are weekly injections. Tirzepatide produced greater average weight loss in trials, but the right choice depends on your health profile and provider recommendation.
How much weight can I expect to lose?
In the STEP 1 trial, adults on semaglutide lost about 15% of body weight over 68 weeks; in SURMOUNT-1, adults on the highest tirzepatide dose lost about 21% over 72 weeks. These are trial averages, your results depend on dose, consistency, and lifestyle.
Are these medications safe?
GLP-1 medications are prescribed and monitored by licensed providers. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, such as nausea, and usually ease over time. Your provider screens for contraindications and monitors you throughout treatment.
Do I need a prescription?
Yes. Both are prescription medications. At Elevra they're prescribed only after a medical evaluation and lab work confirm you're an appropriate candidate, with treatment supervised by a licensed provider.
What happens if I stop the medication?
Appetite effects fade once the medication is discontinued, and some weight regain is common without supporting habits. Your provider will discuss long-term and maintenance strategies as part of your plan.
Get Started

A weight-loss plan built on medicine, not willpower.

Book a consultation with a licensed Elevra provider in Wentzville and find out which option fits you.

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