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In recent years, two pharmaceuticals, semaglutide and tirzepatide, have been in the spotlight and have gained great popularity among the general public. The reason is that, in addition to the significant help they offer in controlling blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, they also seem to help in reducing body weight. Thus, many people who struggle with excess weight turn to these drugs in search of a solution.

What are semaglutide and tirzepatide?

Semaglutide is a drug that belongs to the class of GLP-1 receptor agonists. It mimics the action of a gut hormone that increases satiety and reduces appetite, while also regulating blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin secretion from the pancreas.

Tirzepatide is a newer substance that acts dually: on both the GLP-1 receptor and the GIP receptor, offering even greater appetite reduction and better regulation of metabolism.

Both substances are administered in injectable form (once a week) and have been shown to be effective in people with obesity or type 2 diabetes.

Who are they intended for?

These drugs are mainly intended for:

• People with type 2 diabetes either as monotherapy when metformin is considered unsuitable due to intolerance or in combination with other pharmaceutical products.
• People with obesity (Body Mass Index – BMI ≥ 30).
• Overweight people with BMI ≥ 27 who have concomitant health problems, such as hypertension, sleep apnea, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease and prediabetes.

They are therefore not “drugs “weight loss” for anyone who wants to lose a few pounds before summer, but treatment options for specific patients.

When should they not be taken?

There are situations in which the administration of these drugs is not allowed:

• In people with a history of thyroid cancer (anaplastic or medullary).
• In people with pancreatitis in the past.
• In cases of serious gastrointestinal problems (e.g. severe gastroparesis).
• In pregnant and breastfeeding women.

What are their effects?

Clinical studies have shown that semaglutide can lead to weight loss of 10–15% of the initial body weight, while tirzepatide even more than 20% in some cases. These results are impressive compared to what we knew so far.

In addition, they improve glycemic control, reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and contribute to the improvement of parameters such as blood pressure and lipids.

Is medical supervision necessary?

The answer is clearly yes. Despite the high demand, these drugs should never be taken without medical supervision. The doctor will determine if there is a real indication, select the correct dose and monitor any adverse effects (nausea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain).

Before starting treatment, tests are necessary, such as:

• General blood test.
• Biochemical test (sugar, liver enzymes, kidney function, lipids).
• Thyroid test, if there is a relevant history.

How can I obtain them?

These drugs are only available with a medical prescription.

-Tirzepatide is prescribed by a doctor with a simple medical prescription but is not reimbursed by EOPYY, resulting in the cost of treatment being borne exclusively by the patient.

-Semaglutide is also prescribed via electronic prescription when the patient has diabetes mellitus.

Why is everyone turning to them?

Obesity is a chronic disease that afflicts millions of people. Diets often fail, exercise alone is not enough, and many feel frustrated. Thus, the emergence of drugs that help in substantial weight loss seems like a “miracle solution”.

However, we must remember that these drugs do not replace lifestyle changes. Proper nutrition, regular exercise and psychological support remain irreplaceable. Drugs come to enhance the effort, not replace it.

Conclusion

Semaglutide and tirzepatide constitute a real revolution in the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes. They promise better health and significant weight loss, but their use should only be done with proper medical guidance and monitoring. Information and a responsible attitude are the key to safely utilizing their benefits.