Most patients on semaglutide see 15–20% total body weight reduction. Tirzepatide typically produces 20–25%. A 200-lb patient might lose 30–50 lbs depending on the medication and their response. Results vary based on starting weight, lifestyle, adherence, and individual metabolism. Dr. Dotson sets realistic expectations during your consultation based on your specific situation.

Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist — it targets one appetite-regulating pathway. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) targets two: GLP-1 and GIP. In clinical trials, tirzepatide produced greater average weight loss. That said, the right choice depends on your medical history, metabolic profile, and how your body responds. Dr. Dotson recommends which medication is the better fit for you — not just the default option.

Common early side effects for both medications include nausea, constipation, and decreased appetite (which is therapeutic). Most are mild and temporary, especially with gradual dose titration. Serious side effects are rare under proper medical supervision. Dr. Dotson manages side effects by adjusting dosing, timing, or dietary approach — she doesn't push through discomfort.

Yes. Semaglutide is the active ingredient in Ozempic (approved for diabetes) and Wegovy (approved for weight loss). Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Mounjaro (diabetes) and Zepbound (weight loss). The medications are the same as their brand-name counterparts; the difference is the oversight. At Regenesis Health, a physician manages every dose — not a telehealth chat or automated refill service.

That's a conversation between you and Dr. Dotson. Most patients continue for 6–12 months to reach their goal, then either maintain at a lower dose or taper off while reinforcing lifestyle changes. Some benefit from ongoing maintenance dosing. There's no one-size-fits-all answer — it depends on your goals and your body's response.

GLP-1 therapy is best suited for patients with a BMI over 27 who have struggled with weight loss through diet and exercise alone. It's not appropriate if you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or certain other conditions. Dr. Dotson reviews your full medical history and labs to determine which medication — if either — is safe and appropriate for you.

It depends on what you've built during treatment. Patients who've used GLP-1 therapy to reset eating patterns and establish new habits maintain weight loss more effectively. Dr. Dotson emphasizes lifestyle integration throughout — the goal is to reset your relationship with food, not to create an indefinite dependency on medication.

Yes, when properly monitored. Semaglutide has been used in diabetic patients safely for over a decade; tirzepatide has a strong and growing safety profile. The difference between safe and unsafe long-term use is physician oversight — regular monitoring of response, side effects, and metabolic markers. Every Regenesis Health patient receives ongoing supervision by Dr. Dotson.