Comparisons Wegovy vs Zepbound

Wegovy vs Zepbound

Side-by-side comparison of weight loss results, pricing, side effects, and clinical data.

Wegovy

~15%

Zepbound

~22%

Head-to-Head Comparison

Metric
WegovyWegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg)
ZepboundZepbound (tirzepatide)
Drug Class
GLP-1 RA
GLP-1/GIP dual agonist
Administration
Weekly injection
Weekly injection
Dosing
Once weekly
Once weekly
Avg. Weight Loss
~15%
~22%
Half-Life
~7 days
~5 days
Compounded Cost
$1,300-1,400/mo (brand)
$1,000-1,100/mo (brand)
Brand Cost
$1,300-1,400/mo
$1,000-1,100/mo
FDA Approved
2021
2023
Key Trial
STEP 1 (16.9% weight loss)
SURMOUNT-1 (22.5% weight loss)

Side Effects Comparison

Wegovy

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting

Zepbound

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Decreased appetite

Pros & Cons

Wegovy

Pros

  • +First GLP-1 approved for obesity
  • +Cardiovascular outcomes data (SELECT trial)
  • +Longer market presence

Cons

  • -Less weight loss than Zepbound
  • -Single-receptor mechanism

Zepbound

Pros

  • +Greater average weight loss
  • +Dual mechanism (GLP-1 + GIP)
  • +Lower list price than Wegovy

Cons

  • -No cardiovascular outcomes data yet for obesity indication
  • -Newer with less long-term safety data

The Verdict

Zepbound (tirzepatide) produces more weight loss than Wegovy (semaglutide) — roughly 22% vs 15%. Wegovy has cardiovascular outcomes data from the SELECT trial. Zepbound has a lower list price. Both are FDA-approved specifically for weight management.

SURMOUNT-5 directly compared tirzepatide to semaglutide for obesity, showing tirzepatide produced greater weight loss.

Which Is Right for You?

Choose Wegovy if...

Patients who prioritize cardiovascular protection and a longer safety track record

Choose Zepbound if...

Patients seeking maximum weight loss with the FDA-approved obesity indication

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Zepbound better than Wegovy for weight loss?

Clinical trials show Zepbound (tirzepatide) achieves ~22% weight loss vs ~15% for Wegovy (semaglutide). However, individual results vary and both are highly effective.

Which is cheaper, Wegovy or Zepbound?

Zepbound has a lower list price (~$1,060/mo vs ~$1,350/mo for Wegovy). Actual out-of-pocket costs depend on your insurance coverage and available savings programs.

Does insurance cover Wegovy or Zepbound?

Coverage varies widely. Some insurers cover one but not the other. Both manufacturers offer savings cards that can reduce costs significantly for eligible patients.

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