Medically reviewed by Dr. Diala Alatassi, MD
Weight loss injections are prescription medications, not shortcuts, and the three most common types differ in how often they are given, how they work, and what the FDA has approved them for. Here is how semaglutide, tirzepatide, and liraglutide compare for Austin-area adults.
Choosing among weight loss injections is a medical decision that depends on your health history, how you tolerate side effects, coverage, and what fits your routine. For adults in Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Pflugerville, Leander, Lakeway, Buda, and Kyle, a video visit with an obesity medicine physician can help sort through the options.
Key Takeaways
Semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) are given once a week, while liraglutide (Saxenda) is given once a day.
All three are FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults who meet BMI and health criteria, and all three carry a boxed warning about thyroid C-cell tumors.
Compounded versions are not FDA-approved. TeleSlim Clinic does not prescribe them.
A prescription is provided only when it is medically appropriate, and results vary from person to person.
How the Three Injections Compare
Semaglutide (Wegovy)
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist given once a week. Wegovy is FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity, or overweight with a weight-related condition, and to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in certain adults. In the STEP 1 trial, average weight loss was 14.9% at 68 weeks versus 2.4% with placebo, alongside lifestyle intervention, according to the New England Journal of Medicine.
Tirzepatide (Zepbound)
Tirzepatide acts on both GIP and GLP-1 receptors and is given once a week. Zepbound is FDA-approved for chronic weight management and for moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. In the SURMOUNT-1 trial, average weight loss at the highest dose was about 21% over 72 weeks versus about 3% with placebo.
Liraglutide (Saxenda)
Liraglutide is an earlier GLP-1 medication given once a day. Saxenda is FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults meeting the BMI criteria. Average weight loss in trials was lower than with the newer weekly options, but some people prefer it or find it easier to tolerate or obtain. Your physician can explain how it fits your situation.
Who May Be a Candidate
FDA labeling for these medications generally covers adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition. Your physician will also review your history, current medications, and plans for pregnancy. None of these injections is appropriate for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2, and extra caution is used with a history of pancreatitis or gallbladder disease.
Side Effects and Safety
The most common side effects are nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation, particularly when a dose is started or increased. Dose changes should only be made by your prescriber. Contact your provider if you have severe abdominal pain or cannot keep fluids down. Review the approved labeling for Wegovy on the FDA's Drugs@FDA database.
Beyond Injections
Injections are not the only choice. TeleSlim Clinic Austin also offers phentermine, phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia), naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave), orlistat, and metformin, along with setmelanotide for rare genetic causes of obesity after genetic confirmation. Compare everything on the weight loss medications page. To see how visits and follow-up are structured, read about personalized weight loss planning.
Getting Care From Austin by Video
TeleSlim Clinic Austin provides secure video visits for adults located in Texas, and prescriptions are sent to the pharmacy you choose. You can verify a prescriber's license through the Texas Medical Board. Book a free consult, browse the FAQ page, or view the treatment page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which weight loss injection works best?
Average results differ across trials, but the best option for you depends on your health history, tolerance, coverage, and preferences. Your physician can help you weigh them.
Are weight loss shots safe?
FDA-approved injections have known risks and benefits and should be used under medical supervision. Compounded products are not reviewed by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or quality.
Do I have to inject myself?
Yes, these medications are self-administered using a pen or prefilled injector. Your care team can explain how, and many people find the small needle easier than expected.
What happens if I stop the injections?
Weight regain is common after stopping, so talk with your provider about a plan before changing or stopping treatment.
Does insurance cover weight loss injections?
Coverage varies by plan and diagnosis, and many plans require prior authorization. The TeleSlim Clinic visit fee is cash-pay, and you can check with your insurer about medication coverage.
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. It was medically reviewed by Dr. Diala Alatassi, MD, double board-certified in Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine. Talk with a licensed provider about whether any weight-loss medication is right for you.
