Peptide therapy has become a revolutionary solution in health and wellness, offering numerous benefits, including weight loss. Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, naturally produced by the body and essential for biological processes. Some peptides help regulate blood sugar levels, metabolism, and appetite, promoting weight loss. This article explores whether peptides work for weight loss, how they function, and highlights the best peptides for women. It also discusses potential side effects and safety aspects.
How Peptides Aid Weight Loss
Peptide therapy supports weight loss by regulating metabolic processes and improving the body's ability to burn fat. Some of the most common peptides for weight loss belong to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These medications mimic the action of the natural hormone GLP-1, which the gut releases after eating. Recent evidence indicates that GLP-1 receptor agonists can effectively aid weight loss by:
- Stimulating the release of insulin, which helps regulate blood sugar.
- Delaying stomach emptying (gastric emptying).
- Increasing fullness (satiety).
- Reducing appetite.
- Alleviating food cravings.
FDA-Approved Peptides for Weight Loss
The best peptides for weight loss are those approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Using non-FDA-approved versions of GLP-1 receptor agonists can be unsafe, potentially containing harmful ingredients or incorrect dosages of the active ingredient. Counterfeit products available online may increase the risk of adverse effects.
Semaglutide
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist with three separate brands:
- Rybelsus
- Ozempic
- Wegovy
Wegovy is the only semaglutide drug FDA-approved as a weight loss aid for:
Read also: The Ultimate Guide to Male Diet Supplements
- Adults with obesity, alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
- Adults with overweight and at least one weight-related condition, such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidemia.
- Children ages 12 years or above with a body mass index (BMI) at or above the 95th percentile for their age and sex.
A 2021 study investigated semaglutide's effectiveness as a weight loss aid in 1,961 people with overweight or obesity. Over 68 weeks, participants received a once-weekly dose of either 2.4 mg of subcutaneous semaglutide or a placebo, alongside lifestyle interventions. The semaglutide group lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight compared to baseline, while the placebo group lost only 2.4%.
The study also compared the percentage of individuals in each group who achieved weight reductions of 5% or more:
| % of Weight Reduction from Baseline | Individuals Taking Semaglutide | Individuals Taking Placebo |
|---|---|---|
| 5% or More | 86.4% | 31.5% |
| 10% or More | 69.1% | 12.0% |
| 15% or More | 50.5% | 4.9% |
Liraglutide
Liraglutide is another GLP-1 receptor agonist approved by the FDA in 2014 for treating adult obesity. Studies have also shown it to be effective in children ages 12 to 18 years. Liraglutide is available under the brand names:
- Saxenda
- Victoza
It is approved for:
- Adults with obesity.
- Adults with overweight and at least one weight-related health condition.
A 2017 review and meta-analysis of five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigated liraglutide's safety and effectiveness for weight management. The review found that a significantly higher number of individuals achieved a weight loss of 5% or 10% in the liraglutide group compared to the placebo group.
Read also: Meal replacement guide for women
Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide activates GLP-1 receptors and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), an intestinal hormone that plays a role in insulin secretion and lipid metabolism. In 2023, the FDA approved a tirzepatide injection with the brand name Zepbound for weight loss in adults with obesity or overweight and at least one weight-related condition, alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Zepbound is both a GLP-1 receptor agonist and a GIP receptor agonist, helping reduce appetite and food intake. It is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection. The recommended starting dose is 2.5 mg, which can be gradually increased in 2.5 mg increments over 4 to 20 weeks until the target weekly dosage of 5 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg is reached.
A 2024 study investigated the effect of once-weekly subcutaneous tirzepatide on weight loss management in adults with overweight or obesity. At 36 weeks, the 670 adults experienced an average weight reduction of 20.9%. Participants were then separated into a treatment group (continuing tirzepatide) and a control group (receiving a placebo). At 52 weeks, the treatment group experienced an additional 5.5% weight reduction, while the control group regained 14% of their body weight.
Other Notable Peptides
CJC-1295
CJC-1295 is a synthetic peptide that boosts the production of growth hormones, increasing muscle mass, improving sleep quality, and accelerating fat loss.
Ipamorelin
Ipamorelin stimulates the release of growth hormones without affecting cortisol levels, promoting fat loss, muscle gain, and improving overall body composition.
Read also: Chlorine Brand Comparison
AOD 9604
AOD 9604 is a peptide fragment of human growth hormone that specifically targets fat reduction.
Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin reduces abdominal fat by stimulating the release of growth hormone, increasing muscle mass and reducing visceral fat.
Potential Side Effects
According to the NIDDK, peptides and other weight loss medications may sometimes cause side effects that outweigh the benefits of weight loss. Therefore, weight loss medications should only be taken to improve health, never for cosmetic reasons alone.
The chart below shows the possible side effects of Wegovy, Saxenda, and Zepbound:
| Side Effect | Semaglutide (Wegovy) | Liraglutide (Saxenda) | Tirzepatide (Zepbound) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nausea | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Diarrhea | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Vomiting | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Constipation | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Abdominal Pain | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Indigestion | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fatigue | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Headache | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dizziness | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Distended Abdomen | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Burping | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Flatulence | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Gastroenteritis | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Low Blood Sugar in People with Type 2 Diabetes | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Runny Nose and Sore Throat | ✓ | ||
| Injection Site Reactions | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Increased Lipase Levels | ✓ | ||
| Fever | ✓ | ||
| Hypersensitivity Reactions | ✓ | ||
| Hair Loss | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Gastritis | ✓ | ||
| Urinary Tract Infection | ✓ |
Precautions
Before prescribing peptides for weight loss, doctors must consider certain precautions. Peptides for weight loss may delay gastric emptying, which can reduce the effectiveness of oral medications. The FDA cautions that Wegovy and Zepbound may not be suitable for use during pregnancy, as these medications may harm the fetus. The FDA recommends that males and females of reproductive age discontinue using Wegovy at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy, as the drug can remain in the system for several weeks. For Zepbound, the FDA recommends that females using oral contraceptives switch to a non-oral contraceptive method or add barrier contraception for 4 weeks after the initial Zepbound dose and for 4 weeks after each dose increase.
Peptides for weight loss may also not be suitable for people with a personal or family history of certain conditions, including:
- Medullary thyroid cancer.
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2.
- Hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or any other ingredient in the medication.
Consulting a Doctor
A person should contact a doctor to discuss issues with their weight or require advice on appropriate weight loss methods and treatments. Additionally, if taking a weight loss medication and experiencing side effects, consult a doctor. Depending on the nature and severity of the side effects, the doctor may recommend adjusting the medication dosage or switching to an alternative medication or weight loss method. However, medication should not be stopped unless advised by a doctor.
Peptide Therapy: A Promising Avenue
Peptide therapy offers a promising avenue for effective weight loss and overall health improvement. By choosing the right peptides and working with experienced professionals, individuals can achieve their desired weight and enjoy a healthier lifestyle.
Medical vs. Research-Grade Peptides
Many therapeutic peptides available online are research-grade, designed for laboratory settings and not for human consumption. It is crucial to use medical-grade products for weight loss goals, obtainable through a physician or reputable telemedicine platforms. Currently, only tirzepatide and semaglutide are available through reputable telemedicine platforms.
Considerations Before Starting Peptide Therapy
Before starting peptide therapy, consider the following:
- Weight-Associated Health Problems: Excess body weight can lead to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and sleep apnea.
- Pregnancy: Pregnant individuals or those planning to become pregnant are advised to end GLP-1 RA treatment due to potential risks to the fetus.
- Cancer Risk: Individuals with cancer or a history of cancer should avoid growth hormone secretagogues like tesamorelin.
Tirzepatide vs. Semaglutide
Tirzepatide has shown to be more effective than semaglutide due to its dual mechanisms of action. A trial from 2021 involving 1,973 patients with diabetes randomized participants to receive either semaglutide or one of three doses of tirzepatide, showing tirzepatide's superior efficacy. The most common side effects of tirzepatide are nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting, similar to semaglutide, but potentially more pronounced due to its stronger efficacy.
Semaglutide as a Weight Loss Solution
Semaglutide is a highly effective treatment for rapid weight loss. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, it targets receptors in the body responsible for regulating fullness and slowing the rate at which food leaves the stomach. This leads to reduced food intake and avoids excess calories being stored as fat. While less clinically effective than tirzepatide, semaglutide remains an excellent GLP-1 solution for weight loss and is more widely available.
Tesamorelin for Targeted Fat Reduction
Tesamorelin is an off-label prescription for weight loss, primarily used for treating HIV-associated lipodystrophy. It has shown promise in reducing visceral fat, making it an attractive non-GLP-1 peptide option.
The Importance of Professional Guidance
Navigating the world of peptides for weight loss can be complex, and professional guidance is essential. Medical professionals can assess individual needs, prescribe appropriate peptides, and monitor progress to ensure safety and effectiveness. They can also provide comprehensive support, including diet and exercise recommendations, to maximize results and promote long-term weight management.