Tirzepatide & Semaglutide have gained attention for supporting metabolic health. But can supplements play a better role in uplifting your health? Discover all here.
Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide: What Are the Differences?
Published:
Medically reviewed by Dr Lilla Csonka: Dec 13, 2025
Medically reviewed by Dr Lilla Csonka: Dec 13, 2025
Written by Georgia Chappell
Introduction to Tirzepatide and Semaglutide
In recent years, treatments for type 2 diabetes and weight management have advanced significantly. Among these, Tirzepatide and Semaglutide have gained attention for their ability to help regulate blood sugar, reduce appetite, and support metabolic health [1].
Both medications are injectable therapies backed by strong clinical research and are prescribed worldwide under medical supervision to manage diabetes and support weight loss.
While these medications can be potentially effective when prescribed by a doctor, many people are curious about how they work, what differentiates them and whether evidence-based supplements may play a more meaningful role in supporting metabolism, digestion and long-term blood sugar balance.
Brands such as Naturecan offer scientifically-focused supplements which may support metabolic health in ways that are complementary to drug therapies.
- Berberine - Helps lower blood glucose, improves insulin sensitivity, reduces HbA1c in some trials (2)
- Magnesium - Supplementing magnesium improves insulin sensitivity even in people without obvious magnesium deficiency. (3)
- Reducose – Helps slow carbohydrate absorption and support healthy post-meal blood sugar, with mild insulin-sensitising effects seen in small studies (4).
- Probiotics - Support gut microbiome balance, may reduce low-grade inflammation and help digestion & metabolic signalling (5)
- Protein Supplements - Help preserve lean muscle / support metabolism during calorie-restriction or reduced appetite (6)
In this article, we'll delve into how Tirzepatide and Semaglutide function, highlight their key differences, and discover supplements which may support your metabolic health through natural, science-backed approaches.
GLP-1 Bundle
£79.04
View Details
Explore Naturecan’s GLP-1 Bundle to naturally complement your metabolism and energy safely.
Specifically formulated to support your overall health and wellness goals.
Works to aid appetite regulation, promote balanced blood sugar levels, and support weight management—helping you support overall vitality.
What Is Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide is a dual-action medication designed to help control blood sugar and promote weight loss in adults with type 2 diabetes or obesity. It mimics two hormones produced in the gut – GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) - both of which help manage blood sugar and appetite.
Approved by the U.S. FDA under the popular brand name Mounjaro® (for type 2 diabetes) and Zepbound™ (for weight management), Tirzepatide has shown remarkable results in clinical trials, reducing body weight by more than 20% in some participants (7).
For those searching for a naturally derived supplement which may offer potential benefits similar to Tirzepatide, Berberine is a botanical compound that has shown benefits for insulin sensitivity (8).
How Does Tirzepatide Work?
Tirzepatide binds to and activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors in the body (9). These receptors influence how much insulin your pancreas releases after eating, how quickly your stomach empties, and how full you feel after meals.
- GLP-1 activation triggers insulin release, reduces glucagon (which raises blood sugar), and slows gastric emptying (10).
- GIP activation further boosts insulin sensitivity and enhances energy use in muscles and fat tissue (11).
Together, these actions reduce blood-sugar spikes, curb cravings, and promote gradual, sustained weight loss. Clinical studies have found Tirzepatide may reduce HbA1c and body weight more effectively than Semaglutide (12).
Because Tirzepatide can slow digestion, some people experience mild digestive changes such as bloating or nausea. To complement Tirzepatide and support gut balance, nutrients such as Magnesium Bisglycinate and quality probiotics may help maintain normal digestive function and energy metabolism.
How Long Does Tirzepatide Take to Suppress Appetite?
Appetite suppression typically begins within the first few days to weeks of treatment, depending on the starting dose and how quickly it’s increased (13).
Eating less can potentially lower energy intake sharply. Therefore, pairing this medication with balanced meals and protein supplementation can help maintain energy and muscle mass
We recommend our Protein Supplements which offer a convenient way to meet your daily protein needs while supporting satiety and recovery.
Tirzepatide Dosage Chart: What's my dosage?
| Week | Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1–4 | 2.5 mg weekly | Starter dose to build tolerance |
| 5–8 | 5 mg weekly | Initial maintenance |
| 9–12 | 7.5 mg weekly | Moderate dose |
| 13–16 | 10 mg weekly | Higher therapeutic range |
| 17 + | Up to 15 mg weekly | Maximum recommended dose |
Based on manufacturer guidelines (Eli Lilly) and Drugs.com. Always follow your healthcare provider’s directions.
What Is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is another injectable medication used to manage type 2 diabetes and obesity. Unlike Tirzepatide, it mimics only GLP-1, the hormone responsible for stimulating insulin release, reducing glucagon, and slowing digestion (14).
Semaglutide is sold under the brand names Ozempic® (for diabetes) and Wegovy® (for weight loss). A 2023 review discovered that it can help reduce body weight by around 15% and improve blood-sugar control significantly (15).
In addition to its metabolic effects, GLP-1 activation has been linked to anti-inflammatory benefits that may support cardiovascular and overall health (16).
For those preferring a natural route to maintaining long-term health, compounds such as Resveratrol and Berberine - available in Naturecan’s longevity range may support similar metabolic pathways, by improving insulin response and mitochondrial function (17).
How Does Semaglutide Work?
Semaglutide works by activating GLP-1 receptors, which increases insulin release after meals, lowers glucagon, and slows the rate at which the stomach empties. This leads to steadier blood-sugar levels and a prolonged feeling of fullness.
Clinical trials have provided strong evidence that Semaglutide reduces HbA1c (a measure of average blood sugar) by more than 1.5 percentage points and promotes sustained weight loss when used consistently (18).
GLP-1 activation may also reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, supporting cardiovascular and metabolic health. To further assist anti-inflammatory balance, nutrients such as Active Curcumin may help manage everyday oxidative stress while supporting joint comfort and recovery.
How Long Does Semaglutide Take to Work?
Most people begin noticing improvements in blood-sugar control within the first few weeks.
ppetite suppression and weight-loss effects generally become visible after 2–4 weeks, with steady progress over several months of consistent dosing (19).
Healthy lifestyle choices enhance these benefits and make your results easier to maintain long term. Natural lifestyle improvements include:
- Quality sleep - Adequate sleep helps regulate hormones like leptin and ghrelin, which control hunger and satiety, supporting appetite control and weight management.
- Regular movement - Exercise improves insulin sensitivity, boosts metabolism, and preserves lean muscle mass, enhancing the effects of medications or supplements.
- Balanced diet - Eating nutrient-rich foods with the right balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats stabilizes blood sugar, reduces cravings, and supports sustained energy.
- Adequate hydration - Staying hydrated helps maintain metabolic function, supports digestion, and can reduce feelings of false hunger that may lead to overeating.
How Long Does Semaglutide Take to Suppress Appetite?
Appetite reduction is often noticeable after one to two weeks, peaking around the four-to eight-week mark. Because slower gastric emptying can reduce overall food intake, ensuring proper hydration and nutrition is key.
For those who want to manage their own weight-loss journey, supporting digestion with Probiotics and maintaining lean mass with Naturecan’s Protein Supplements such as whey protein, BCAA’s and creatine can help users feel more in control of their physique, along with feeling energised throughout this period.
Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide: Key Differences
| Feature | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Dual GLP-1 & GIP agonist | Single GLP-1 agonist |
| Approved for | Type 2 diabetes & obesity | Type 2 diabetes & obesity |
| Weight-loss efficacy | ≈ 20–22 % (higher) | ≈ 15 % |
| Blood-sugar effect | Greater HbA1c reduction | Strong but slightly less |
| Side effects | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea | Nausea, constipation |
| Appetite suppression | Faster onset and stronger | Gradual onset |
| Brand names | Mounjaro®, Zepbound™ | Ozempic®, Wegovy® |
While Tirzepatide may offer stronger effects on weight and blood sugar, both Tirzepatide and Semaglutide can sometimes cause side effects like mild nausea or digestive changes, and require gradual dose increases under medical supervision (20,21).
For those who prefer a gentler, more natural approach, Naturecan’s Berberine, Reducose, and GLP-1 Bundle can help support healthy blood sugar, maintain gut balance, and promote steady energy — offering a complementary way to support long-term metabolic health (22,23,24).
Who should consider these medications?
For Diabetes Management
Patients with type 2 diabetes who struggle to control blood sugar with oral medications may benefit from adding a GLP-1 receptor agonist like Semaglutide or Tirzepatide.
For Weight Loss
FDA-approved for weight management, Ozempic®, Wegovy® (Semaglutide) and Mounjaro®, Zepbound™ (Tirzepatide) are suitable for adults with a BMI ≥30, or BMI ≥27 with at least one obesity-related condition, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes.
Potential side effects of Tirzepatide and Semaglutide explored
1. Difficult to maintain long-term results
Tirezepatide and semaglutide produce positive short-term weight loss. However, when many stop treatment, this is commonly followed by substantial weight gain. Therefore, it's difficult to maintain long-term results.
For example, in a 2022 Semaglutide trial, participants lost -17% body weight at 68 weeks, but regained about 11.6% of that loss after treatment withdrawal (33). Similarly a study conducted in 2023 also confirmed that while Tirzepatide preserves weight loss with continued use, withdrawal also leads to substantial regain in clinical trials (34).
2. Loss of muscle mass with weight loss
Weight loss using Tirzepatide and Semaglutide includes both fat and lean (muscle) mass. Across several studies, roughly 20-25% of total weight loss came from lean mass (not fat).
Therefore, a meaningful portion of the reduction is muscle rather than fat. This is an important consideration for strength, metabolism and function (35)
3. Digestive effects & impacts on nutrient absorption
GLP-1 receptor agonists slow gastric emptying and alter gut mortality, which can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation (36). Slower gastric emptying and changes in bile acid can theoretically affect absorption of certain nutrients (for example, fat-soluble vitamins or oral medications (37)).
Clinicians report gastrointestinal side effects are more frequent adverse effects and should be monitored closely (38).
Solution: Natural Support for Metabolic Health & Longevity
Medications like Tirzepatide and Semaglutide are powerful, but long-term metabolic health also depends on daily habits and nutritional support.
While natural supplements are generally not as potent for weight loss, evidence shows that certain nutrients can enhance insulin sensitivity, reduce oxidative stress, and support digestive balance or mitigate side effects of these medications (27).
Naturecan’s Health & Longevity Stack combines several of these science-backed ingredients for your overall wellbeing.
Supporting weight management
Reducose (Glucose support capsules)
May help moderate post-meal blood sugar (39).
Claire C: I have noticed a real difference in my sugar cravings, which have significantly decreased. Easy to take and well packaged. I will continue to recommend it!
Berberine
helps support healthy blood-sugar metabolism (28)
Michael Trevor: “I've only been using Berberine for three weeks, but I haven't had any negative side effects so far. I did feel a difference after a few days - a lighter head and better balance.”
Protein Supplements
helps to preserve lean mass while losing fat (31).
Sandrine Imperatori-Vidal: “Whey protein helps me maintain muscle mass in my daily life during my dietary rebalancing, tastes great, a touch of indulgence in this rebalancing.”
Supporting health while on medications
Resveratrol
promotes mitochondrial and cardiovascular function (29).
Sandrine Fellak: “I have moments of mental fog, like not being able to find my words or not remembering a path I've taken a thousand times. Since I started taking these capsules, I have regained clarity and mental alertness!”
Magnesium Bisglycinate
aids muscle recovery and energy production (30).
Alex Rinn (MD of Naturecan & nutritionist): “Magnesium bisglycinate, citrate, and malate (100% NRV) are highly bioavailable and stomach-gentle forms of magnesium to support muscle recovery, nervous system function, and restful sleep.”
Probiotics
balance gut microbiota, supporting nutrient absorption and digestion (32).
Szilvia Somodi: “Fantastic! No bloating anymore and my normal digestion returned, I love it!”
Omega‑3 fatty acids
may support cardiovascular health (40).
Judit Antalné: “This product has had a positive effect on the nervous system, among other things!”
Our supplements allow accessibility and flexibility, as these natural compounds are easy to obtain without a prescription and can be incorporated into daily routines. Not only that, these supplements tend to have a gentler effect on the body.
GLP-1 Bundle
£79.04
View Details
Explore Naturecan’s GLP-1 Bundle to naturally complement your metabolism and energy safely.
Specifically formulated to support your overall health and wellness goals.
Works to aid appetite regulation, promote balanced blood sugar levels, and support weight management—helping you support overall vitality.
Conclusion
Both Tirzepatide and Semaglutide represent advances in treating type 2 diabetes and supporting healthy weight loss. Tirzepatide’s dual-action mechanism may deliver stronger results for some users, while Semaglutide remains one of the most reliable and well-researched GLP-1 treatments available.
However, Tirzepatide and Semaglutide are known for causing gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal pain (25,26).
Not only this, but Tirzepatide and Semaglutide typically cause high calorie deficits, which can impact digestion and nutrient absorption, leading to reduced muscle mass. This may not be sustainable for a long period of time, resulting in many gaining the weight back over a short period of time.
For those seeking to support metabolic health naturally; avoiding any gastrointestinal issues, Naturecan offers scientifically formulated supplements including Berberine, Resveratrol, Magnesium, Whey Protein, and Probiotics - designed to promote balanced energy, digestion, and long-term longevity.
Dr Lilla Csonka
Medical Advisor at Naturecan
Dr Lilla Csonka is a medical doctor with primary interest in nutrition, sustainable and enjoyable weight
loss and preventive care. She worked as a medical doctor in psychiatry, so the emotional, mental
aspects of eating problems are also in scope with her clients.
She is working as a General Practitioner
resident doctor, so she has a clear understanding of the basic medical symptomology and disease care.
Dr. Csonka is eager to look through evidence based journals, articles to provide accurate, scientifically
backed medical data in the relevant scientific fields.
Natural Ozempic alternatives
Let’s explore the many options you may have rather than choosing ozempic.
Read Article
Naturecan's blood-sugar guide
This article all things blood sugar and what you need to know about your health.
Read Article
How to boost your immune system
Explore the key causes of ageing and health benefits of longevity supplements.
Read Article
