The two GLP-1-class leaders, what each does, the trial evidence behind both, and how to actually think about choosing. Both available now under a clinician.
Reduces appetite and supports meaningful weight loss and blood-sugar control, with the strongest human evidence in the category.
Grade A, multiple large randomized controlled trials in humans (STEP program).
Long-term outcomes of compounded (vs. branded) formulations are less characterized; durability after stopping depends heavily on the habits built alongside it.
Supports the largest average weight loss and metabolic improvement seen in randomized trials to date.
Grade A, large randomized controlled trials (SURMOUNT / SURPASS).
Head-to-head long-term outcome data is still maturing; compounded-formulation specifics differ from the studied branded product.
Both are real, trial-grade medicines available now under a clinician, this isn't research-grade territory. Tirzepatide hits two receptors (GIP + GLP-1) and shows the larger average weight loss in trials; semaglutide has the longer track record and the deepest outcome data. The honest answer is rarely 'which molecule', it's which dose, tolerability and path fit you.
Bigger trial numbers are not a promise for any one person. Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide are not FDA-approved, supply is constrained and winding down, and durability depends on the habits built alongside the medicine, not the molecule you pick.
In trials, tirzepatide (a dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist) shows larger average weight loss; semaglutide has the longer track record and deeper outcome data. Both are grade A. The right choice depends on dose tolerability, history and the supervised path, not the molecule alone.
Yes, both are available through a clinician. Branded versions are FDA-approved; compounded versions are not FDA-approved and supply is constrained and winding down. Eligibility is a clinical decision.