Both semaglutide and tirzepatide have shown superior efficacy compared to other weight loss medications currently available. Their unique mechanisms of action, targeting the brain’s appetite-regulating centers, make them particularly effective for individuals with obesity who struggle with controlling their food intake.

In terms of safety, both drugs are generally well-tolerated. However, like any medication, they may cause side effects. The most commonly reported side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. These symptoms are usually mild and transient, resolving on their own over time. It’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

More common

1. Stomach pain

Less common

1. Difficulty in breathing or swallowing
2. fast heartbeat
3. gaseous stomach pain
4. heartburn
5. recurrent fever
6. skin itching, rash, or redness
7. stomach fullness
8. swelling of the face, throat, or tongue
9. vomiting
10. yellow eyes or skin

The side effects of semaglutide are typically mild — especially when compared to the complications associated with overweight and obesity.

People taking semaglutide for weight loss may experience:

• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, constipation and gassiness
• Headache
• Stomach issues, including nausea, vomiting, pain or distension (bloat)

Gastrointestinal issues are the most common complaint among people just starting semaglutide. But you may be able to reduce the side effects by beginning on a lower dose and then slowly increasing the amount you take.

• Have a body mass index (BMI) of 27kg/m2 or greater and at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol
• Have a BMI of 30kg/m2 or greater

Avoid semaglutide if you have:

• History of medullary thyroid cancer
• History of gallbladder disease
• History of pancreatitis
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)

Some common side effects of this medication include:

• Lightheadedness
• Headaches
• Mild nausea (should be mild and pass quickly. If it doesn’t, contact a medical professional immediately.)
• Mild diarrhea (Like nausea, anything that is more than mild or lasts longer than a few days, you should contact a medical professional.)
• Signs of allergic reactions include hives, itching, swelling of your tongue/throat/mouth, or shortness of breath.

If you think you are experiencing an allergic reaction when taking this medication, you should seek medical help immediately.

There are some other side effects that you may experience, which could be more related to losing weight rather than the medication. These symptoms include:

• Jitteriness
• Irritability
• Extreme fatigue
• Hunger pangs
• Upset gastrointestinal tract

Possible side effects vary from person to person but could include:

• Redness, swelling, or infection at the injection site
• Nausea, upset stomach
• Headache
• Joint pain
• Mild diarrhea
• Sense of whole body swelling
• Allergy reaction*

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Tingling
• Sleepiness

Some of the common side effects of phentermine include:

• Bad taste in your mouth
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Vomiting