Did you know that some weight loss medications can help people lose up to 20% of their body weight, comparable to bariatric surgery outcomes?

In this episode, I dive into the latest research comparing two major weight loss medications, Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide), based on findings from the 72-week SURMOUNT-5 trial. I explain how Zepbound led to greater weight loss (about 20.2% vs. 13.7% with Wegovy), possibly due to its dual action on GIP and GLP-1 receptors. Both drugs were generally well tolerated, with similar side effects like nausea and constipation, though Wegovy had slightly more people stop due to GI issues. I also emphasize that while Zepbound may appear more effective, individual needs, such as cardiovascular health or sleep apnea, should guide treatment decisions. Lastly, I remind you that sustainable weight loss requires patience, realistic expectations, and a holistic approach that includes lifestyle changes, not just medication.

Tune in to this episode to learn which weight loss medication might be right for you and why your journey to health is more than just the number on the scale.

 

Episode Highlights:

• Comparison of Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide)

• Average weight loss outcomes and waist circumference changes between both medications

• Mechanism of action: GLP-1 vs. dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor targeting

• Side effect profiles and tolerability of both medications

• FDA approval differences, including cardiovascular risk reduction and sleep apnea treatment

• Importance of personalized treatment plans and setting realistic weight loss expectations

• Ongoing research into oral formulations and long-term safety studies

Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly:

• Website | drshellymd.com

• Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd

• Instagram | @drshellymd

• Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd

• Twitter | @drshellymd

About Dr. Alicia Shelly

Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, “Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.

 

Resources:

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