The medically-assisted, weight loss industry has been shaken up in the recent times by two new medications namely Semaglutide and Tirzepatide. If you’ve spent any amount of time online recently, you’ve probably noticed how people can’t stop talking about these injectable treatments. 

it’s not just in the news where people are sharing their weight loss journey – they are even trending on TikTok! It’s hard to use social media without coming across a photo or a video of someone discussing how they lost a significant amount of weight with them. Seems like everyone from celebs to your neighbor has something to say about it. Have you come across all the conversations that are going on social media about these new weight loss injections Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?

But this is something – because when there is this much hype with new treatments, it becomes difficult to distinguish between actual outcomes and overhyped ones. Some of them seem to be quite unbelievable while others are the real-life examples of positive change. 

You may have overheard them while sipping coffee with friends or perhaps you have come across before and after photos on your social media timeline. In my opinion, it might be useful to check what we already know about these treatments, not only believing the hype. Look, let’s break down what these medications actually entail and what we can actually know about them and not just what everyone is saying, right? It’s important to note that we would love to help – it often seems as though there is so much information out there that it can be difficult to determine the truth. We are always open to help answer any queries that you may have regarding our weight loss program. We take pride in helping our patients and making a positive change in their lives.

Myth #1: “These medications are just quick fixes”

FACT: Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are not the magic bullets’ they are often portrayed as. They function through the mechanism of GLP-1 hormones that are naturally produced in the body to control appetite and blood glucose levels. Consider them as instruments that assist in managing the cravings for food and enable people to choose healthier options without much difficulty. These medications should be used in conjunction with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise as they are most effective when combined with them. Success requires commitment to sustainable lifestyle changes.

Myth #2: “You’ll gain all the weight back after stopping”

FACT: I hear this concern from patients all the time, and honestly, it’s a fair worry. Can the weight come back after stopping? Weight regain can occur after discontinuing these medications, but this isn’t inevitable. We explain to our patients that the key to effective long-term weight loss is using the medication period to establish healthy habits and addressing underlying behaviors. Most of our patients are able to maintain the weight loss in the follow up visits by following the same lifestyle changes even after stopping the medication. However, because our bodies are all different and some things work for one while others benefit from something different, it is important to realize that obesity is a chronic condition that may require ongoing medical and behavioural interventions. Taking GLP-1 medications is like learning to ride a bike – the medication helps you find your balance, but the skills you develop can stick with you for life.

Myth #3: “These medications destroy your stomach”

FACT: The first few weeks can be rough for some people. Nausea? Yeah, it might happen. While gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur, they are typically mild to moderate and often improve over time. Here’s what we tell our patients: most side effects are like that annoying houseguest – they eventually leave. We start with tiny doses and work our way up slowly, which helps your body adjust. Most of my patients find the side effects totally manageable with some simple tricks (ginger tea becomes your best friend!). Since the side effects go away with time, the medications don’t cause permanent damage to the digestive system.

Myth #4: “They’re dangerous because they’re new”

FACT: Both medications underwent rigorous clinical trials before FDA approval. Semaglutide has been used since 2017 for diabetes and since 2021 for weight management. We’ve got solid data on its safety. Tirzepatide was approved in 2022. Ongoing monitoring shows consistent safety profiles. While all medications carry risks, the benefits often outweigh them for eligible patients. I get it, though – trying a newer medication can feel scary. But these aren’t random products that just showed up yesterday. They’ve been through years of testing and real-world use. While no medication is without risks (even aspirin has its issues), we’ve got a pretty good handle on what to expect.

Myth #5: “Anyone can take these for weight loss”

FACT: This is probably the biggest misconception I deal with. These medications aren’t like picking up vitamins at the grocery store. They’re serious medical treatments for specific conditions. You need to meet certain criteria (like having a BMI over 30 or over 27 with weight-related health issues). And just like you wouldn’t start a new training program without checking if it’s right for you, these medications need proper medical oversight. These medications are prescribed for specific medical conditions:

• BMI ≥30, or BMI ≥27 with weight-related health conditions
• Type 2 diabetes (specific formulations)
• Contraindicated for certain medical conditions
• Not approved for cosmetic weight loss without meeting certain criteria
• Require ongoing medical supervision

Myth #6: “They work by preventing nutrient absorption”

FACT: Think of these medications like a volume control for your appetite, not a wall blocking nutrients. They work with your body’s own systems to help you feel fuller sooner (like having a built-in portion control coach). They keep you feeling satisfied longer and slow down how quickly food moves through your stomach. One of the most notable ways that GLP-1 injections work is by helping your body process sugar better.

Unlike older weight loss medications, these drugs work primarily through appetite regulation and metabolic effects:

• Reduce hunger signals
• Increase feeling of fullness
• Slow gastric emptying
• Improve insulin sensitivity
• Do not block nutrient absorption

Important Considerations

Who Should Consider These Medications?

• Individuals with clinically significant obesity
• Those with type 2 diabetes (specific formulations)
• Patients who haven’t achieved success with lifestyle changes alone
• People with weight-related health conditions
• Struggling with significant weight issues despite your best efforts
• Ready to commit to a complete health program (not just taking a medication)

Medical Supervision Is Essential

• Regular monitoring of response and side effects
• Proper dose titration
• Integration with comprehensive weight management plan (we offer complimentary nutrition plans for our patients)
• Ongoing assessment of benefits vs. risks

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide represent significant advances in obesity and diabetes treatment. These medications can be game-changers for the right people, but they’re not a replacement for building a healthy lifestyle – they’re more like a really good assistant. The most successful patients I see are the ones who use these medications as part of a bigger picture that includes moving more, eating well, managing stress, and getting good sleep. 

And remember – what works for that influencer on social media or your cousin’s best friend might not be right for you. Your journey is unique, and that’s okay.

Dr. Sende Wellness in Miami specializes in weight management and metabolic health, helping patients achieve sustainable results through evidence-based approaches. Book an appointment online for a video visit or in-person office visit.