Semaglutide vs tirzepatide: What should I know about pregnancy and birth control?

Weight loss treatment with semaglutide or tirzepatide is not appropriate during pregnancy. If you become pregnant, contact your prescriber promptly. If you also have diabetes, ask for a safe plan to manage blood sugar rather than leaving it untreated.

Semaglutide should be stopped at least two months before a planned pregnancy because it stays in the body for a long time. For tirzepatide, ask your physician when to stop before trying to conceive. Do not assume the timing is identical for both medicines.

Tirzepatide can make oral hormonal birth control less effective by affecting how it is absorbed. Use a non-oral birth control method or add a barrier method for four weeks after starting tirzepatide and for four weeks after each dose increase. Your physician can help you choose an appropriate method.

Semaglutide does not carry that same specific birth control instruction, but vomiting or severe diarrhea can affect pill reliability. Follow your contraceptive instructions if this occurs. Breastfeeding also needs a separate review based on the exact product and your health needs.