What is Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide, sold under the brand name Mounjaro® and Zepbound™, is the newest injectable drug in a group of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists (or GLP-1 mimickers) FDA approved for weight loss. In addition to its effects on blood sugar and insulin levels, studies have shown that Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) provided substantial and sustained weight loss when used in combination with diet and exercise.
GLP-1 drugs (such as Mounjaro®, Zepbound™, Ozempic®, and Wegovy™) are a group of new drugs that mimic GLP-1, a hormone the body releases after a meal, signaling you are full and lowering appetite. However, Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) is unique because it attaches to two different receptors (GLP-1 and GIP), unlike previous GLP-1 analogs, which only attach to one. GIP is a hormone in the body that supports blood glucose levels and helps our fat cells store more excess energy we might consume in our diets. Due to its unique dual activity, tirzepatide has shown about 50% better weight loss than semaglutide (Ozempic® and Wegovy™).
✓ Increased feeling of fullness
✓ Reduces cravings and appetite
✓ Lowers weight and waist size
✓ Lowers blood sugar and blood pressure
✓ Reduces inflammation
✓ Improves sleep quality
1. No guarantee of weight loss
2. Duration of results is unknown
3. No long-term studies
4. Unknown long-term side effects
5. Must be combined with a healthy diet & regular physical activity
Many patients desire to get in shape, and the process of losing weight can sometimes feel overwhelming. We understand that weight gain isn’t a matter of willpower or laziness. Your body’s own hormones are likely combating your efforts to lose weight. With a 70% success rate, tirzepatide’s results are comparable to receiving bariatric surgery. No other weight loss drug on the market competes with the efficacy of this class of drug or the magnitude of tirzepatide’s success.
Our program is a medically supervised approach, designed to obtain safe and effective results. This medication is designed as an additional tool for weight management and shouldn’t be considered a lifelong medication. Instead, it should be used to help you kickstart your weight loss and healthy journey while you commit to living a healthier lifestyle. We recommend pairing the medication with a healthy diet and regular physical activity. A well-rounded approach to weight loss can not only reduce the number on your scale but also help you achieve optimal health.
Why use Tirzepatide for weight loss instead of Semaglutide?
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide produce Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1), but tirzepatide also produces glucosedependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) “that can significantly reduce glycemic levels and improve insulin sensitivity, as well as reducing body weight by more than 20% and improving lipid metabolism.” Essentially tirzepatide is a more complex and effective version of semaglutide. Because of the added complexity in manufacturing, unfortunately Tirzepatide weight loss shots are three times more expensive than semaglutide. Although it costs more, researchers concluded that tirzepatide is more effective and a better value for money than semaglutide for weight reduction.
How do I get started?
Determine if you are an ideal candidate by completing intake forms and completing lab work. Bloodwork within the last 90 days will be accepted and reviewed. If new or additional testing is needed, a lab script will be provided for you to take to the lab and location of your choice.
STEP 1: COMPLETE MEDICAL HISTORY & BLOODWORK
Bloodwork is essential for obtaining a comprehensive baseline evaluation of vital organ functions, including the kidneys, liver, thyroid, and electrolytes. This comprehensive panel also helps identify potential issues such as high cholesterol and diabetes. Establishing this baseline is crucial in determining whether you are a suitable candidate for the medication, ensuring that the benefits outweigh any potential risks. Our primary objectives are your safety and success in achieving better health, and lab work is a vital tool in accomplishing these goals.
STEP 2: SCHEDULE VIRTUAL CONSULTATION AND FIRST IN OFFICE APPOINTMENT
Once lab work is completed, you will schedule a virtual appointment with Dr. Hoffman via Skype to discuss if you are a candidate for this medication. We will review potential side effects and contraindications to ensure this medication is safe for you. If we determine you are a good candidate, you can receive your first injection at an inoffice appointment. During your appointment, we will explain the medication and answer any questions. The first month, your injections will be given in our office weekly. We will teach you how to administer it on your own and after the first month you will be given pre-filled syringes to inject on same day each week for one month. Each syringe will contain your customized dose of tirzepatide and must be stored in the refrigerator.
STEP 3: MONTHLY CHECK IN
We will have you into the office one time each month to monitor your progress regularly and adjust the prescription accordingly to ensure your results are following the weight-loss plan. You may repeat the monthly injection plan multiple times until you achieve your goal weight. In order to lessen side effects by taking higher doses, tirzepatide is intended to be titrated in increases doses each month. It is VERY important that you follow our dosing guidelines to avoid side effects. Your body needs to adjust to a smaller dose before you are ready for the higher doses.
COST:
Your dosage will determine your monthly medication pricing. Additional charges include in-office appointments and injection supplies.