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Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide

Side-by-side comparison of Semaglutide, Tirzepatide — mechanism, dosing, half-life, side effects, and research status.

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Attribute Semaglutide Semaglutide (GLP-1 Receptor Agonist) Weight Loss Tirzepatide Tirzepatide (GIP/GLP-1 Dual Agonist) Weight Loss
Basics
Molecular type GLP-1 Receptor AgonistDual GIP/GLP-1 Receptor Agonist
Amino acids 3139
Molecular weight 4,113.6 Da4,813.5 Da
Half-life ~7 days~5 days
Route(s) Subcutaneous injection, Oral (Rybelsus)Subcutaneous injection
Mechanism & Research
Primary mechanism Semaglutide binds and activates GLP-1 receptors throughout the body with high affinity. In the pancreas, it stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion and suppresses glucagon release. These effects are glucose-depend… Tirzepatide's dual mechanism differentiates it from pure GLP-1 agonists. The GIP component contributes additional appetite suppression via hypothalamic GIP receptors and improves insulin secretion efficiency. The two inc…
Research status FDA Approved FDA Approved
Evidence summary Semaglutide has one of the most robust clinical trial programmes of any peptide compound. The STEP trial series (for weight management) and SUSTAIN series (for diabetes) collectively enrolled tens of thousands of partici… Tirzepatide's clinical development programme (SURPASS for diabetes, SURMOUNT for obesity) has consistently demonstrated superior weight loss outcomes to comparator GLP-1 agonists. The SURMOUNT-1 trial set a new benchmark…
Protocol & Dosing
Typical dose 0.25mg → 2.4mg weekly (weight management)2.5mg → 15mg weekly
Frequency Once weeklyOnce weekly
Duration Ongoing (chronic management)Ongoing (chronic)
Timing Same day each week, any timeSame day each week, any time of day
Safety
Common side effects
  • Nausea (44%)
  • Diarrhoea (30%)
  • Vomiting (24%)
  • Constipation (24%)
  • Nausea (33–40%)
  • Diarrhoea (17–22%)
  • Vomiting (11–13%)
  • Constipation (11–12%)
Contraindications
  • Personal/family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
  • Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2)
  • Pancreatitis history
  • Personal/family history of MEN2 or medullary thyroid carcinoma
  • Known GIP or GLP-1 receptor agonist hypersensitivity
  • Severe renal impairment (caution)
Anti-doping Not Prohibited Not Prohibited
Deeper reading
Related peptides Tirzepatide, AOD-9604, Tesamorelin Semaglutide, AOD-9604, Tesamorelin
Full profile Read full Semaglutide profile → Read full Tirzepatide profile →

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Comparison data is compiled from each peptide’s individual profile. All values are drawn from peer-reviewed research and regulatory sources. For educational use only — not medical advice. Verify any protocol with a qualified healthcare provider.