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The Next Step in Your Weight Loss Journey with Tirzepatide
Our BBB Weight Loss Program in Corona, CA now offers tirzepatide alongside semaglutide. Here is what it is, how it compares, who qualifies, and what the program includes.
What is tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide is a once-weekly injectable medication that activates two gut-hormone receptors, GIP and GLP-1, which slow stomach emptying, steady blood sugar, and reduce appetite. The FDA approved it for type 2 diabetes in 2022 (Mounjaro) and for chronic weight management in November 2023 (Zepbound) in adults with obesity, or with overweight plus at least one weight-related condition. In the 72-week SURMOUNT-1 trial, adults without diabetes taking the 15 mg dose lost an average of 20.9% of their body weight, compared with 3.1% on placebo (Jastreboff et al., NEJM, 2022). Like semaglutide, it works best alongside changes in eating and activity.
How is tirzepatide different from semaglutide?
Both medications are weekly injections that curb hunger, and both are offered in our program. Semaglutide activates one receptor (GLP-1); tirzepatide activates two (GIP and GLP-1), which is the main reason trial participants lost more weight on it on average. Your provider recommends one based on your health history, goals, and how you tolerate each medication.
| Semaglutide | Tirzepatide | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand names | Wegovy (weight), Ozempic (diabetes) | Zepbound (weight), Mounjaro (diabetes) |
| How it works | GLP-1 receptor agonist | Dual GIP + GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| FDA approval for weight management | 2021 | 2023 |
| Average weight loss in pivotal trial | 14.9% at 68 weeks (STEP 1) | 20.9% at 72 weeks, 15 mg dose (SURMOUNT-1) |
| Dosing | Weekly injection, increased gradually | Weekly injection, increased gradually |
| Common side effects | Nausea, constipation, diarrhea, usually easing over time | Nausea, diarrhea, decreased appetite, usually easing over time |
Who qualifies for tirzepatide?
GLP-1 medications are generally considered for adults with a body mass index of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with a weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or sleep apnea. They are not used during pregnancy, and a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 rules them out; a history of pancreatitis and certain other conditions also need review. The only way to know is a medical evaluation, which is why every program starts with a complimentary consultation, a health-history review, and lab work.
What does the BBB Weight Loss Program include?
- Provider evaluation and labs to confirm you are a candidate and to choose between semaglutide and tirzepatide.
- A weekly injection with a gradual dose increase to limit side effects.
- Nutrition and exercise coaching built around whole foods, adequate protein, and an activity plan you can keep.
- Weekly check-ins, in person at our Corona office or remotely, to track progress and adjust your plan.
- A 4 to 6 month structure with a maintenance plan at the end, because sustainable weight loss depends on habits, not the medication alone.
Is tirzepatide a substitute for diet and exercise?
No. In the clinical trials every participant also followed a reduced-calorie diet and an activity plan, and our program is built the same way. The medication makes it easier to eat less; the coaching makes the change last.
Ready to learn more? Explore the BBB Weight Loss Program in Corona, CA, or call (951) 456-4464 to schedule a consultation.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide are prescription treatments and are not right for everyone; a licensed provider will review your health history to determine whether you are a candidate. Individual results vary.