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Tesofensine vs Semaglutide: A Head-to-Head Comparison

In this article, we will closely examine Tesofensine and Semaglutide, two different classes of drugs used to manage weight and type 2 diabetes. We will delve into their indicated uses, mechanisms of action, mode of administration and side effects.

Klara Hatinova

Author - Klara Hatinova

Klara is a postgraduate researcher in experimental psychology at the University of Oxford.

Klara used MediSearch to find sources for this blog.
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What are tesofensine and semaglutide?

Tesofensine and semaglutide are two different types of drugs that have demonstrated efficacy in obesity management.

Tesofensine was initially developed for treating Parkinson’s Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease. Since 2019, it has not been studied for dementia, but serendipitously, weight loss was reported across many subjects taking tesofensine. Due to this, tesofensine is now in phase III clinical trials for obesity management [1].

Semaglutide is the most known weight loss drug, marketed under the brand names Ozempic for type 2 diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss [2].

Similarities and differences between tesofensine and semaglutide

Indicated conditions: tesofensine vs semaglutide

Tesofensine was initially developed to be used in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease. However, it has more promising outcomes in treating obesity and weight loss than in Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s Disease since patients treated with tesofensine lost weight [1].

Semaglutide is used for weight loss, but also for type 2 diabetes. The Wegovy formulation of semaglutide is primarily indicated for weight loss, whereas Ozempic is primarily indicated for type 2 diabetes. Nonetheless, Ozempic can also be prescribed off-label for weight loss [3].

Tesofensine has not yet been studied in diabetes patients, and there is a subtle difference in the conditions that tesofensine and semaglutide can treat. Tesofensine is still under investigation and is not yet approved in many countries.

Mode of administration: tesofensine vs semaglutide

Semaglutide is available in both injectable and oral forms. Injectable semaglutide is taken weekly, and semaglutide tablets must be taken daily.

Tesofensine is only available as an oral tablet and must be taken once a day.

Mechanism of action: tesofensine vs semaglutide

Tesofensine and semaglutide work very differently.

Tesofensine works by inhibiting the reuptake of monoamine neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, thereby increasing their levels in the brain [4]. This is similar to the action of many antidepressants. This action is believed to reduce appetite, reduce pleasure derived from food and increase metabolism, leading to weight loss [5].

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