How Does it Work?

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide mimic the GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide) hormone released in the stomach after eating a meal. This hormone communicates to the brain that you are full which in turn decreases your appetite and cravings. Throughout the week, your brain will be receiving that signal, which allows your appetite, cravings, and “food noise” to be substantially lowered.

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide slow gastric emptying. The food you eat will stay in your stomach for longer, break down more slowly, and it will take a lot less food to make you feel full.

Tirzepatide has an additional peptide called GIP (Gastric Inhibitory Peptide) that helps stimulate insulin production and reduce glucagon levels in the body.

What Symptoms Can I expect?

Because you will be eating less food less often, it’s important to look out for signs of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. If you start to feel lightheaded, shaky, or nauseous it’s time for a natural sugar snack (fresh fruit/dried fruit is the best option) and always follow that up with a source of protein. The natural sugar will bring your blood sugar up quickly and the protein will help maintain it for the next few hours.

Some gastric symptoms are to be expected. Those can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, and gas (sulfuric type burps). Some people experience no symptoms, some experience them more strongly; it all depends on how your body processes the peptide.

How Can I Manage the Symptoms?

Dosing dosing dosing! Think: low and slow. You want to take the minimal dose that provides the desired effect of appetite suppression and early satiety. It is imperative to give your body an adequate amount of time to adapt to the peptide. If you increase the doses too quickly or take more than your body is ready for, extreme gastric symptoms are unavoidable and can be dangerous to your health. For dosing questions, reach out to your consulting nurse BEFORE injecting to discuss appropriate dose.

Supplementation. The peptides are not only more effective in people who have a healthy gut microbiome, but those people can experience less gastric symptoms as well. Introducing a pre/probiotic prior to and during peptide use can be extremely beneficial. Adding Super Green can help with symptom management as well as providing you with a good source of necessary vitamins and minerals. Below are links to two supplements that are recommended.