GLP-1 receptor agonists have become some of the most talked-about medications in the world of weight loss and type 2 diabetes care. Among the most well-known are semaglutide and tirzepatide—both used to support blood sugar regulation and, in many cases, significant weight loss. But if you're trying to decide between the two, you may be wondering: Which one is better for you?
This guide breaks down the key differences in how these medications for weight loss work, their effectiveness, side effects, cost, and more—so you can make an informed decision with your healthcare provider.
What Is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which means it mimics a hormone in your body called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). This hormone helps regulate blood sugar, slows down digestion, and reduces appetite.
Semaglutide is sold under two major brand names:
- Ozempic® – FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes
- Wegovy® – FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management
It’s typically administered as a once-weekly injection, and it's been shown to lead to significant weight loss when used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.¹
What Is Tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide works a little differently. It’s a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, meaning it mimics not just GLP-1 but also another hormone called GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). This dual action may enhance the drug’s effects on both blood sugar control and appetite regulation.
Tirzepatide is available under the names:
- Mounjaro® – FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes
- Zepbound® – FDA-approved for chronic weight management
Like semaglutide, tirzepatide is also administered via weekly injection.¹
Key Differences Between Semaglutide and Tirzepatide
Comparing tirzepatide vs semaglutide for weight loss is about more than brand names—each medication works differently, has unique benefits, and may suit different individuals based on goals, side effects, and cost. Here’s a breakdown of how they compare across several key categories:
1. Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide Mechanism of Action
Although both target weight loss and blood sugar, they act through slightly different mechanisms:
- Semaglutide: Mimics GLP-1 to reduce appetite, slow gastric emptying, and improve insulin secretion.¹
- Tirzepatide: Mimics both GLP-1 and GIP, potentially offering additional metabolic benefits and enhanced appetite suppression.²
2. Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide Weight Loss Outcomes
Both medications have shown strong results, but the amount of weight loss they produce can vary depending on the setting—and the individual:³
- Semaglutide: In real-world clinical use, semaglutide was associated with an average weight loss of approximately 8.3% after 12 months of treatment.
- Tirzepatide: In the same clinical setting, tirzepatide resulted in an average weight loss of approximately 15.3% after 12 months of treatment.
Tirzepatide has consistently resulted in greater average weight loss than semaglutide in both trials and real-world settings, though this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best choice for everyone—individual needs, tolerability, and medical history all play a role in determining the right option.
3. Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide Cost (Without Insurance)
Prices can vary based on the pharmacy and location, but these are the current list prices for each medication:
- Semaglutide: Wegovy® has a list price of $1,349.02 per package, while Ozempic® is around $1,000 per fill without insurance.⁴,⁵
- Tirzepatide: Zepbound® is priced at $1,086.37 per fill, and Mounjaro® has a list price of $1,079.77 per fill.⁶,⁷
Tirzepatide options tend to be slightly less expensive than Wegovy, though both medications fall within a similar high-cost range when paying out of pocket.
4. Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide Side Effects
While both medications can cause gastrointestinal symptoms and other issues, there are some differences in how commonly side effects appear and which ones may be more severe:
- Semaglutide: Frequently causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain—most of which are mild and improve over time. Hypoglycemia is more likely when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas. Serious risks include pancreatitis, thyroid tumors, gallbladder disease, kidney problems, and suicidal thoughts.¹
- Tirzepatide: Shares many of the same GI symptoms but also includes fatigue, burping, reflux, and hair loss among its common side effects. Serious risks include pancreatitis, acute kidney injury, gallbladder disease, hypoglycemia, suicidal thoughts, and aspiration during sedation.²
Both medications have similar side effect profiles, but tirzepatide users may experience a broader range of symptoms. Tolerability can vary widely from person to person, so side effects may influence which medication is best suited for each individual.
Which Is Best for You: Semaglutide or Tirzepatide?
Choosing between semaglutide and tirzepatide depends on several factors:
- Weight loss goals: Your weight loss goals may influence your decision, as tirzepatide can lead to greater weight loss for some patients.
- Diabetes status: If you also have type 2 diabetes, that may influence your choice, since both medications help with blood sugar control and tirzepatide may offer a slight advantage.
- Tolerability: Tolerability matters, especially if you are sensitive to gastrointestinal side effects, which might make one option more suitable than the other.
- Insurance coverage: Insurance coverage could play a major role, as the more affordable drug through your health plan may ultimately be the better fit.
- Other health conditions: Other health conditions are also important, and your provider will consider your overall health profile and medical history to choose the safest and most effective medication for you.
Find the Right Fit with 24hrdoc
No matter which medication ends up being the right fit for you, 24hrdoc is here to support your journey. Our licensed doctors can help guide you in choosing between semaglutide and tirzepatide based on your individual goals, medical history, and preferences.
We provide online weight loss treatment with compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide, available in both pill and injectable forms, all through our trusted network of U.S. pharmacies. Start your personalized treatment plan from the comfort of home with 24hrdoc. Get started on your weight loss journey today!
Sources:
- Drugs.com. Semaglutide.
- Drugs.com. Tirzepatide.
- Rodriguez PJ, Goodwin Cartwright BM, Gratzl S, et al. Semaglutide vs tirzepatide for weight loss in adults with overweight or obesity. JAMA Intern Med. 2024 Sep;184(9):1056–1064. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2024.2525.
- NovoCare. What is the list price for Wegovy® and will it impact me?.
- NovoCare. Find out the cost for Ozempic®.
- Lilly. How much should I expect to pay for Zepbound® (tirzepatide)?.
- Lilly. How much should I expect to pay for Mounjaro® (tirzepatide)?
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