Semaglutide & Tirzepatide

Kadie E. Leach, MD

Internal Medicine located in Lanham, MD

For adults struggling with being overweight or obese, losing weight and keeping it off can be challenging, even with consistent nutrition and physical activity. Semaglutide and tirzepatide are prescription medications that may be included in a medically supervised weight-management plan. At her offices in Lanham, Maryland, Kadie E. Leach, MD, and Dr. James Benjamin can evaluate each patient’s health, weight-related conditions, medications, and goals to determine whether one of these treatments may be appropriate. To determine if you're a candidate, call the office or request one online today.

301-276-7423

Semaglutide & Tirzepatide Q & A

What are Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?

Semaglutide and tirzepatide are injectable medications used for certain patients with overweight or obesity. Semaglutide, marketed as Wegovy for chronic weight management, mimics a hormone called GLP-1 that helps regulate appetite and food intake. Tirzepatide, which is marketed as Zepbound for weight management, acts on both GLP-1 and GIP pathways. Both medications can help reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness.

Treatment is generally combined with healthy eating and regular physical activity rather than used as a replacement for lifestyle changes. Dr. Benjamin can monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan based on individual needs.

How much weight can I lose while taking Semaglutide or Tirzepatide?

Weight loss varies considerably from person to person. Clinical results depend on factors such as the medication used, dosage, treatment duration, starting weight, medical conditions, nutrition, physical activity, and individual response. Prescription weight-management medications can help some people lose 10% or more of their starting body weight, although results vary by medication and individual.

Rather than promising a specific amount of weight loss, Dr. Leach can establish realistic goals and monitor changes over time. Even modest weight loss may provide health benefits for people who are overweight or obese.

What is it like to take Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?

Both medications are administered by injection, typically on a weekly schedule when prescribed by Dr. Leach for weight management. Treatment usually begins at a lower dose, with adjustments made according to the prescribing clinician’s instructions and the patient’s response.

Some patients experience gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal discomfort. Side effects and other risks should be discussed with a medical professional before treatment. Semaglutide and tirzepatide are not appropriate for everyone, and certain medical conditions, medications, and pregnancy considerations can affect whether treatment is suitable for you.

How do I know if I’m a candidate for Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?

Eligibility for these medications depends on a comprehensive medical evaluation rather than your weight alone. Prescription weight-management medications may be considered for adults with a BMI of 30 or greater, or adults with a BMI of 27 or greater who also have a weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.

Dr. Leach and Dr. Benjamin can review medical history, current medications, BMI, weight-related health concerns, and previous weight-management efforts. Her evaluation helps determine whether semaglutide, tirzepatide, another treatment, or lifestyle-focused care may be most appropriate.

For patients who qualify, medically supervised treatment can provide a structured approach to weight management while keeping overall health and long-term goals in focus.

To schedule an appointment with Dr.Benjamin, call the office or request an appointment online today.

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