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Semaglutide and Tirzepatide: Breakthrough Medications for Weight Loss and Diabetes Management
- Dr Titilayo Akinsola
- Sep 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 30
Managing type 2 diabetes often feels like a balancing act — watching blood sugar, tracking meals, adjusting medications, and trying to lose weight all at the same time. For many, traditional medications and lifestyle changes only go so far.
That’s why new GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) have generated so much excitement. These medications don’t just lower blood sugar — they also support significant weight loss, making them a powerful tool for patients living with type 2 diabetes.
At Favor Mental Health in Bel Air, MD, we’re committed to helping patients understand how these treatments work, who they may benefit, and what to expect.
How Semaglutide and Tirzepatide Work for Weight Loss and Diabetes
Both semaglutide and tirzepatide are injectable medications that mimic hormones naturally involved in blood sugar and appetite regulation.
Semaglutide: Mimics GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), slowing digestion, reducing appetite, and improving insulin release.
Tirzepatide: Targets both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), giving it a dual effect that may lead to greater weight loss and glucose control.
The result? Lower blood sugar, reduced cravings, and steady, sustained weight loss.
Benefits Beyond Diabetes Control
Research shows these medications do more than just improve blood sugar. Patients often experience:
Significant weight loss (average 15–20% of body weight in many studies).
Better A1C levels, reducing the risk of diabetic complications.
Lower blood pressure and cholesterol, improving heart health.
Improved quality of life, with more energy and less food-related stress.
Who May Benefit from These Medications
These medications may be a good option if you:
Have type 2 diabetes that isn’t well-controlled with oral medications.
Struggle with obesity or overweight in addition to diabetes.
Want to reduce reliance on multiple diabetes medications.
Have not reached goals through diet and exercise alone.
They are not recommended for everyone — including patients with certain thyroid conditions, pancreatitis, or a history of specific cancers.
Side Effects and Safety Considerations
Most side effects are mild and improve with time. The most common include:
Nausea
Vomiting
Constipation
Abdominal discomfort
Close medical supervision is important to adjust doses and monitor progress safely.
The Favor Mental Health Approach
At Favor Mental Health, we take a personalized approach to diabetes and weight management. We:
Review your full medical and psychiatric history.
Evaluate whether semaglutide or tirzepatide is appropriate for you.
Develop a customized treatment plan that integrates medications, lifestyle strategies, and follow-up care.
Monitor both your physical health and mental wellbeing — because diabetes and depression often go hand in hand.
A Real-Life Example
One patient shared:“After starting semaglutide, I lost 25 pounds and my A1C dropped below 6. For the first time in years, I feel like I have control over my diabetes instead of the other way around.”
Stories like this highlight how these medications can change lives.
Get Help Managing Diabetes and Weight in Bel Air, MD
If you’re living with type 2 diabetes and struggling with weight, you don’t have to face it alone. New treatments like semaglutide and tirzepatide may provide the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.
Visit our website today to schedule your confidential consultation and explore whether these medications are right for you.
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