Top Weight Loss Peptides 2025: Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Cagrilintide Explained

The global obesity epidemic has driven unprecedented demand for innovative pharmacological solutions. Peptide-based therapies, particularly GLP-1 receptor agonists, have emerged as game-changers in weight management. Semaglutide and Tirzepatide dominate the market, while newer agents like Cagrilintide show promising potential. These peptides are redefining obesity treatment by targeting metabolic pathways that regulate appetite, energy expenditure, and glucose homeostasis, offering a paradigm shift from traditional diet-and-exercise regimens.

The urgency for effective therapies is underscored by staggering statistics: over 40% of U.S. adults are obese (BMI ≥30), and 1.9 billion people worldwide are classified as overweight (BMI ≥25)10. The global anti-obesity drug market is projected to exceed $100 billion by 2030, driven by regulatory approvals, rising healthcare costs linked to obesity-related comorbidities (e.g., diabetes, cardiovascular disease), and growing patient demand for sustainable solutions.

GLP-1 agonists have become the cornerstone of this revolution. Semaglutide (Wegovy), approved in 2021, demonstrated a 15% average weight loss in clinical trials (STEP program), with 60% of participants achieving ≥10% reduction7. This efficacy, combined with cardiovascular benefits (e.g., reduced stroke risk), has positioned it as a first-line therapy for obesity.

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro), a GLP-1/GIP dual agonist, represents a leap forward. Its dual mechanism—activating both glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors—enhances metabolic effects beyond single-target drugs. The SURMOUNT-1 trial revealed an astonishing 22.5% weight loss at 72 weeks in obese patients without diabetes, outperforming Semaglutide’s 15.3% reduction2. This milestone underscores the power of dual-hormone synergy in addressing severe obesity, particularly in individuals with insulin resistance.

While Semaglutide and Tirzepatide dominate current clinical practice, newer agents like Cagrilintide are pushing boundaries. This amylin/GLP-1 dual agonist mimics pancreatic amylin, a hormone that regulates postprandial satiety and fat storage. Phase 2 trials (CAVIL-202) showed a 18.2% weight loss at 24 weeks, with improved insulin sensitivity in metabolic syndrome patients. Unlike traditional GLP-1 agonists, Cagrilintide’s amylin-like effects may address post-meal hyperglycemia, making it a potential game-changer for patients with comorbid diabetes.

Mechanisms and Benefits: Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Cagrilintide

1. Semaglutide: From Diabetes to Weight Loss

Mechanism of Action
Semaglutide is a once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics the action of endogenous glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone secreted by the gut in response to food intake. Its three primary mechanisms drive its efficacy:

1. Insulin Secretion Enhancement: Binds to GLP-1 receptors on pancreatic β-cells, stimulating glucose-dependent insulin secretion. This reduces postprandial hyperglycemia and improves insulin sensitivity.
2. Glucagon Suppression: Inhibits α-cell glucagon release, reducing hepatic glucose production and lowering fasting blood glucose. So some people use it for weight loss.
3. Gastric Emptying Delay: Slows digestion by acting on the vagus nerve and enteric nervous system, prolonging satiety.
4. Central Appetite Regulation: Crosses the blood-brain barrier to reduce neuropeptide Y (NPY) and agouti-related peptide (AgRP) signaling in the hypothalamus, suppressing hunger.

Clinical Efficacy
STEP Trials (Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People with Obesity):

• STEP 1: 1,961 participants with obesity (BMI ≥30) achieved 14.9–16.9% weight loss at 68 weeks (vs. 2.4% placebo). Notably, 63% of patients lost ≥10% of initial body weight.
• STEP 2: In patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes, Semaglutide reduced HbA1c by 1.6% and body weight by 11.3%.
• STEP 3: Among patients with type 2 diabetes (without obesity), 8.4% weight loss was observed, highlighting its dual utility in metabolic health.

Cardiovascular Benefits
SUSTAIN 6 Trial: In 3,297 high-risk patients with type 2 diabetes, Semaglutide reduced the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) by 26%, driven by a 39% reduction in non-fatal stroke. This led to its FDA approval for cardiovascular risk reduction in 2020.
Mechanism: Reduces atherosclerosis progression by improving lipid profiles (LDL reduction, HDL increase) and decreasing systemic inflammation.

FDA Approvals & Market Position

• Ozempic® (0.5–2 mg): Approved in 2017 for type 2 diabetes.
• Wegovy® (2.4 mg): Approved in 2021 for chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with weight-related comorbidities.
• Global Penetration: Wegovy® holds ~60% market share in GLP-1-based weight loss therapies .

Tirzepatide: Dual-Target Breakthrough

Mechanism of Action
Tirzepatide is a first-in-class GLP-1/GIP dual receptor agonist, combining the effects of two incretin hormones:

1. GLP-1 Pathway: Enhances insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, and delays gastric emptying (similar to Semaglutide).
2. GIP Pathway: Activates GIP receptors on adipocytes and skeletal muscle, promoting fat oxidation and energy expenditure. Improves insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues beyond GLP-1 alone.

Clinical Efficacy
SURMOUNT-1 Trial : Evaluated obese adults (BMI ≥30) without diabetes.

• 15 mg dose: Achieved 20.9% weight loss at 72 weeks (vs. 2.4% placebo).
• 25 mg dose: 22.5% weight loss, the highest recorded in a phase 3 trial for obesity.

Metabolic Improvements: Reduced waist circumference by 24 cm, improved lipid profiles, and resolved prediabetes in 70% of participants.

Head-to-Head Comparison:
Outperformed Semaglutide (Wegovy®) in a 12-month trial: Tirzepatide (15 mg) caused 15.3% weight loss vs. Semaglutide’s 8.3% in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Regulatory Milestones
FDA Approval: For obesity (BMI ≥27) in 2023; expanded to include metabolic syndrome (elevated triglycerides, hypertension) in 2024.
China Approval: In 2024, approved for obesity (BMI ≥28) and metabolic comorbidities.

Common Side Effects:

Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms: Nausea (55.9%), vomiting (28%), diarrhea (15%). These are dose-dependent and often resolve with titration.

Serious Risks:

• Thyroid C-Cell Tumors: Observed in rodent studies but no human cases reported.
• Hypoglycemia: Rare in non-diabetic patients; more common in those with diabetes (managed via insulin dose reduction).

Market Differentiation

• Broad Efficacy: Effective in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients.
• Dosing Flexibility: Available in 5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg weekly doses, allowing personalized titration.

Cagrilintide: The Next-Generation Candidate

Mechanism of Action
Cagrilintide is a GLP-1 agonist combined with amylin analog activity, targeting two key pathways:

• GLP-1 Pathway:
  Enhances insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, and delays gastric emptying.
• Amylin Mimicry:
  Mimics pancreatic amylin, a hormone that regulates postprandial satiety and fat storage.
  Reduces post-meal glucose spikes by slowing gastric emptying and enhancing insulin action.

Clinical Efficacy

Phase 2 Trial (CAVIL-202): Evaluated 246 obese adults (BMI 30–45) over 24 weeks.
30 mg dose: 18.2% weight loss (vs. 0.8% placebo).
Metabolic Benefits: Improved insulin sensitivity by 30% in insulin-resistant patients.
Satiety Effects: Participants reported prolonged fullness, with meals delayed by an average of 2.3 hours post-dose.

Differentiation from Semaglutide/Tirzepatide
Dual Hormonal Synergy: Combines GLP-1’s appetite suppression with amylin’s postprandial glucose control.
Potential for Diabetic Patients: May address postprandial hyperglycemia more effectively than GLP-1 agonists alone.

Development Pipeline
Primary endpoint: 15% weight loss in 12 months.
Secondary endpoints: Cardiovascular risk reduction and glycemic control in type 2 diabetes.
Projected Approval: 2026 for obesity and 2027 for type 2 diabetes.

Safety Considerations
Mild GI side effects (nausea: 18%, abdominal pain: 12%).
No severe adverse events reported.

Unique Risk:
Potential for hypoglycemia in diabetic patients due to amylin’s insulin-sensitizing effects.

Market Potential
Target Population: Patients with postprandial hyperglycemia and visceral obesity (common in metabolic syndrome).
Competitive Edge: May offer superior efficacy in reducing visceral fat compared to GLP-1 agonists alone.

Comparative Analysis: Efficacy, Safety, and Clinical Utility

Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, Cagrilintide Side Effects & Risks & Management

Semaglutide (Wegovy®/Ozempic®) Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, bloating, indigestion (heartburn), and reduced appetite.
• Gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines).
• Fatigue
• headache
• dizziness
• belching

Serious Side Effects:

• Allergic reactions: Hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face/lips/tongue/throat.
• Eye problems: Sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain, or halos around lights (may indicate macular edema).
• Cardiovascular symptoms: Irregular heartbeat, fast/pounding heartbeats, chest fluttering, or shortness of breath.
• Neurological symptoms: Severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, weakness, loss of coordination, or tremors.
• Thyroid risks: Increased risk of thyroid C-cell tumors (rare, but a boxed warning exists for patients with a history of thyroid cancer or MEN2 syndrome).
• Pancreatitis: Abdominal pain (may indicate pancreatitis).
• Hypoglycemia (in people with type 2 diabetes using insulin or sulfonylureas).

Rare/Unconfirmed Reports:

Erectile dysfunction in some male users.
Mental health effects: Anxiety or depression (requires further study).

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and reduced appetite (similar to Semaglutide).
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Serious Side Effects:

• Allergic reactions: Hives, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• Eye problems: Macular edema (similar to Semaglutide).
• Pancreatitis: Severe abdominal pain.
• Hypoglycemia (in people with type 2 diabetes using insulin or sulfonylureas).

Unique Considerations:

Tirzepatide combines GLP-1 and GIP agonism, which may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects compared to Semaglutide alone.

Cagrilintide (Experimental Agent) Side Effects

Known Side Effects (from Clinical Trials):

Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain (similar to GLP-1 agonists).
Hypoglycemia (in patients with diabetes).

Potential Risks (Speculative): As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, it may share risks with Semaglutide/Tirzepatide, such as thyroid tumors, pancreatitis, or macular edema.
Amyloid-related effects: Rare cases of gastrointestinal amyloid deposits have been reported in early trials (requires further study).

General Precautions and Contraindications For All Three Drugs:

Contraindications:
Thyroid cancer history (MEN2 syndrome or medullary thyroid carcinoma).
Allergy to GLP-1 agonists.
Pregnancy or breastfeeding (safety not established).

Monitoring:
Regular checks for vision changes, severe abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss.
Blood glucose monitoring in diabetic patients.

Dose Titration:
Start with low doses to minimize gastrointestinal side effects (e.g., Semaglutide starts at 0.25 mg/week).

Patient Education:
Report persistent nausea/vomiting, difficulty swallowing, or severe dizziness immediately.

Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, Cagrilintide Side Effect Comparison Table

Semaglutide, Tirzepatide & Cagrilintide Weight Loss Dosage: A Complete 2025 Guide

Semaglutide (Wegovy®), Tirzepatide (Zepbound®), and Cagrilintide are FDA-approved or investigational medications revolutionizing obesity treatment. Proper dosing is crucial to maximize weight loss while minimizing side effects. This guide breaks down evidence-based protocols for each drug.

1. Semaglutide (Wegovy®) Dosage for Weight Loss

FDA-Approved Dosing Protocol

Notes:

• Efficacy: Average weight loss of 15% over 68 weeks (STEP trials).
• Missed Dose: If >5 days late, skip and resume the next scheduled dose.
• Dose Adjustments:
• For severe GI side effects, extend the titration phase (e.g., stay at 1 mg for 8 weeks).
• Do NOT exceed 2.4 mg/week.

2. Tirzepatide (Zepbound®) Dosage for Weight Loss

FDA-Approved Dosing Protocol

Notes
Efficacy: Average weight loss of 21% over 72 weeks (SURMOUNT-1 trial).

Side Effect Management:
Nausea peaks at 5–7.5 mg doses; slower titration (e.g., 6-week intervals) may help.
Missed Dose: Administer within 4 days; skip if later.

3. Cagrilintide (Investigational) Dosage for Weight Loss

Clinical Trial Dosing (Phase III)

Notes
Combination Therapy: In trials, Cagrilintide is often paired with Semaglutide (CagriSema®), showing 17.1% weight loss at 32 weeks.
Safety: GI side effects (nausea, diarrhea) mirror Semaglutide but may resolve faster.

Dosing Comparison for Weight Loss

Best Practices for Optimal Results

1. Slow Titration: Reduces nausea/vomiting risk by 30–50%.
2. Timing: Inject at the same day/time weekly (e.g., every Monday morning).
3. Lifestyle Synergy:
   Combine with a calorie deficit (500–750 kcal/day) and 150 mins/week of exercise.
4. Monitoring:
   Track weight, waist circumference, and side effects using a journal or app.

How to reconstitute lyophilized powder for Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Cagrilintide?

Lyophilized (freeze-dried) peptides require reconstitution with a sterile solvent to restore their injectable form and ensure accurate dosing.
⚠️Key Principle: Strict aseptic technique is mandatory to avoid contamination or drug degradation.

Materials Required

• Lyophilized peptide vial: Semaglutide (e.g., 2mg), Tirzepatide (e.g., 5mg), or Cagrilintide (e.g., 5mg).
• Solvent: Bacteriostatic water (preserved with 0.9% benzyl alcohol).
• ❌ Do NOT use sterile water (no preservatives; requires immediate use).
• Syringe: 1mL insulin syringe (30G-31G ultra-fine needle recommended).
• Alcohol swabs: For sanitizing vial stoppers and skin.
• Storage container: Lightproof, airtight container for refrigeration.

Step-by-Step Reconstitution Guide for lyophilized powder for Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Cagrilintide

• Step 1: Remove the vial cap and clean the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab.
• Step 2: Wipe the vial’s rubber stopper with an alcohol swab.
  Draw the required volume of bacteriostatic water (e.g., 1mL for a 2mg Semaglutide vial).
• Step 3: Inject the sterile water slowly into the vial.
  Insert the needle at a 45° angle into the stopper and slowly inject the solvent. Avoid directing the stream onto the powder.
• Step 4: Gently swirl the vial until the powder dissolves (do not shake).
  Gently rotate the vial horizontally for 10–15 seconds to dissolve the powder.
  ❌ Do NOT shake or vortex (risk of protein denaturation).
• Step 5: It should be clear and particle-free. Discard if cloudy or discolored.

Label the vial: Note the reconstitution date and discard after expiration.

Note:
if Reconstitution by sterile water:
Semaglutide reconstituted solution: Use within 8 hours if stored at room temperature (<25°C/77°F).
Tirzepatide reconstituted solution: Use within 1 hour of preparation.
Cagrilintide Reconstituted solution: Use immediately or store at 2°C–8°C for up to 24 hours (per trial guidelines).

If Reconstitution by Bacteriostatic water:
Semaglutide/Tirzepatide reconstituted vial remains stable for 28 days at 2–8°C (36–46°F) (refrigerated ,avoid freezing).
Cagrilintide econstituted vial remains stable for 30 days at 2–8°C (36–46°F) (refrigerated ,avoid freezing).

how to store Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Cagrilintide？

lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder forms

Semaglutide lyophilized ：

Unopened Vials：
Refrigerated: Store at 2–8°C (36–46°F) until the expiration date (typically 24–36 months from manufacture).
Room Temperature: Can be stored at ≤25°C (77°F) for up to 6 weeks if unopened and protected from light.

Opened Vials:
Once reconstituted, follow refrigerated storage guidelines (see prior guides).
Light Sensitivity: Keep in original carton to avoid UV exposure.

Key Notes：
Stability: Lyophilized Semaglutide is highly stable due to its formulation with stabilizers like mannitol.
Post-Expiry: Discard if expired, even if unopened.

Tirzepatide lyophilized ：

Unopened Vials:
Refrigerated: Store at 2–8°C (36–46°F) until expiration (typically 18–24 months).
Room Temperature: Stable at ≤30°C (86°F) for up to 3 weeks if unopened.

Opened Vials:
After reconstitution, refrigerate and use within 21 days.
Light Sensitivity: Moderate – store in original packaging.

Key Notes
Humidity Control: Ensure the storage environment is dry (use silica gel packs if necessary).
Travel: For unopened vials, a temperature-controlled travel case is recommended for long trips.

Cagrilintide (Investigational Drug)

Unopened Vials:
Refrigerated: Store at 2–8°C (36–46°F). Based on Phase II trial data, stability lasts up to 24 months.

Room Temperature: Not recommended unless specified by trial protocols (limited to 1–2 weeks at ≤25°C).

Opened Vials:
Follow trial-specific guidelines (typically use within 30 days post-reconstitution).

Light Sensitivity: High – store in amber vials or lightproof containers.

Key Notes
Clinical Trials: Storage requirements may vary by study phase. Confirm with trial coordinators.

Handling: Avoid frequent temperature changes to preserve lyophilized structure.

Product Comparison Table

Where to Inject Semaglutide, Tirzepatide & Cagrilintide: A Complete Guide for Optimal Results

Proper injection technique and site selection are critical for maximizing the efficacy of GLP-1 agonists like Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Cagrilintide while minimizing discomfort and skin reactions. This guide covers FDA-recommended injection sites, rotation strategies, and troubleshooting tips.

Recommended Injection Sites

All three peptides are administered subcutaneously (under the skin). The following sites are approved for use:

1. Abdomen
   • Area: At least 2 inches (5 cm) away from the navel.
   • Advantages:
   Fast absorption due to high blood flow.
   Easy access for self-administration.
   • Avoid: Scarred, bruised, or stretched skin.
2. Thigh
   • Area: Front or outer upper thigh.
   • Advantages:
   Slower absorption (ideal for steady efficacy).
   Less painful for some users.
   • Tip: Pinch the skin to ensure subcutaneous injection.
3. Upper Arm
   • Area: Back of the upper arm (deltoid region).
   • Advantages: Convenient for caregivers to administer.
   • Disadvantage: Harder to self-inject without assistance.
4. Buttocks (Off-Label but Acceptable)
   • Area: Upper outer quadrant.
   • Note: Less commonly used but supported by clinical practice.

Drug-Specific Recommendations

Best Practices for Injection

1. Rotation Strategy:
   Change injection sites weekly (e.g., left abdomen → right thigh → left arm).
   Avoid repeated injections in the same spot to prevent:
   Lipohypertrophy (fatty lumps under the skin).
   Skin irritation (redness, itching).
2. Injection Angle:
   Use a 90° angle for most adults.
   For thin individuals or children, pinch the skin and inject at a 45° angle.
3. Needle Size:
   4–6 mm needles (30G–32G) are ideal for subcutaneous delivery.
4. Timing:
   Inject at the same time each week (e.g., every Monday morning).
   Can be taken with or without food.

Common Side Effects by Site

Summary

Final Market Effectiveness Overview: Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Cagrilintide
Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Cagrilintide have emerged as transformative therapies in the obesity and diabetes markets, driven by their clinical efficacy, regulatory approvals, and strategic positioning. Semaglutide (Wegovy®/Ozempic®) remains the market leader, with $19 billion in 2023 sales (70% growth YoY), fueled by its first-to-market advantage in obesity (Wegovy®) and diabetes (Ozempic®/Rybelsus®). Its cardiovascular safety profile and proven 12.4–15% weight loss in trials have solidified its dominance, though looming patent expiry (2032) poses a long-term threat from biosimilars.

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®/Zepbound®) is rapidly gaining ground, achieving $10 billion in 2024 sales (100% YoY growth) due to its superior efficacy (21.1% weight loss in trials) as a dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist. Its premium pricing and pipeline advancements (e.g., Retatrutide, a triple-agonist) position it to overtake Semaglutide in obesity by 2026, though higher costs and GI side effects may limit broader adoption.

Cagrilintide, still in Phase III trials, represents a future disruptor for Novo Nordisk, designed to extend its market leadership post-2032. With potential for prolonged action and oral formulations, it could fill gaps left by Semaglutide’s patent cliff, but its success hinges on regulatory approval and efficacy data.

Collectively, these drugs are driving exponential growth in the GLP-1RA class, which is projected to command 80% of the obesity drug market by 2030. The sector is fueled by rising global obesity rates (1.2 billion adults by 2035) and demand for combination therapies (e.g., GLP-1RAs + SGLT2 inhibitors). However, challenges like patent expiries, regulatory scrutiny (e.g., thyroid tumor risks), and pricing pressures will shape their trajectories. Semaglutide retains leadership, Tirzepatide is the fastest-growing disruptor, and Cagrilintide offers high-risk, high-reward potential—together, they set the stage for a fiercely competitive market dominated by innovation in long-acting, cost-effective, and multi-target therapies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Semaglutide, Tirzepatide & Cagrilintide

Q1: How do these medications work for weight loss?
A:

Semaglutide activates GLP-1 receptors to slow gastric emptying, reduce appetite, and improve insulin sensitivity.

Tirzepatide targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, enhancing satiety and fat metabolism.

Cagrilintide mimics amylin to suppress hunger and works synergistically with GLP-1 agonists (e.g., in combination therapies like CagriSema®).

Q2: What is the average weight loss achieved with these drugs?
A:

Semaglutide: ~15% weight loss over 68 weeks (STEP trials).

Tirzepatide: ~21-22.5% weight loss over 72 weeks (SURMOUNT trials).

Cagrilintide + Semaglutide (CagriSema®): ~17.1% weight loss at 32 weeks (Phase II data).

Q3: How are these medications administered?
A: All are weekly subcutaneous injections:

Semaglutide: Prefilled pens (Wegovy®: 0.25–2.4 mg; Ozempic®: 0.25–2 mg).

Tirzepatide: Prefilled pens (Zepbound®/Mounjaro®: 2.5–15 mg).

Cagrilintide: Currently investigational (0.3–4.5 mg in trials).

Q4: What are the most common side effects?
A:

Gastrointestinal: Nausea (40–55%), vomiting (18–24%), diarrhea (25–32%).

Semaglutide/Tirzepatide: Mild hypoglycemia (in diabetic patients).

Cagrilintide: Fatigue and dizziness (early trial reports).

Q5: Who should avoid using these medications?
A: Contraindications include:

Personal/family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or MEN2 syndrome.

Severe gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., gastroparesis).

Pregnancy or breastfeeding (limited safety data).

Q6: How long does it take to see weight loss results?
A:

Initial results: Noticeable within 4–8 weeks.

Maximum effect: Achieved by 6–12 months of consistent use.

Q7: Will I regain weight if I stop taking these drugs?
A: Yes. Studies show ~66% of lost weight returns within 1 year if discontinued without lifestyle changes.

Q8: Do these medications benefit heart health?
A:

Semaglutide: Reduces major cardiovascular events by 20% in high-risk patients (SELECT trial).

Tirzepatide: Under study for heart failure (SUMMIT trial).

Q9: How do they compare to older weight-loss drugs like orlistat?
A:

Efficacy: Traditional drugs yield 5–10% weight loss vs. 15–22% with GLP-1-based therapies.

Additional benefits: Better glycemic control, blood pressure, and lipid improvements.

Q10: What should I do if I miss a dose?
A:

Semaglutide/Tirzepatide: Take within 5 days of the missed dose; skip if later.

Cagrilintide: Follow trial guidelines (typically ≤3 days).

Q11: Are these drugs covered by insurance?
A:

Semaglutide/Tirzepatide: Often covered for diabetes; obesity coverage varies (e.g., excluded by U.S. Medicare).

Cagrilintide: Not yet approved; coverage pending FDA review.

Q12: Can they be combined with other weight-loss medications?
A: Not recommended with appetite suppressants (e.g., phentermine) due to overlapping side effects like nausea.

Q13: Do these drugs affect mental health?
A: The FDA is investigating rare reports of suicidal ideation (1.2% of cases). Monitor mood changes and report concerns immediately.

Q14: Are there long-term safety risks?
A:

Thyroid tumors: Observed in rodents; human risk unconfirmed.

Pancreatitis: Rare but serious (discontinue if severe abdominal pain occurs).

Q15: When will Cagrilintide be available?
A: Expected 2026–2027, pending Phase III trial results and regulatory approval.