Medical Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved and may carry different risks than FDA-approved medications. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before considering any medication options.
Important Current Status Update: As of March 19, 2025, the FDA has ended enforcement discretion for compounded tirzepatide. Most compounding of tirzepatide is no longer legally permitted following the resolution of the drug shortage. Only FDA-approved medications (Mounjaro® and Zepbound®) are now available for most patients.
In the battle against the global obesity epidemic, new treatments are continually emerging. Ozempic (semaglutide) may be taking the world by storm, but Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is quickly gaining recognition for its remarkable weight loss results.
Tirzepatide is available under the names Mounjaro and Zepbound in the U.S.:
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Mounjaro – FDA‑approved since May 2022 for type 2 diabetes management.
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Zepbound – FDA‑approved since November 2023 for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight and a weight‑related condition.
Semaglutide is available under the names Wegovy and Ozempic in the U.S.:
- Ozempic – FDA‑approved since December 2017 for improving blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes and to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes and known heart disease.
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Wegovy – FDA‑approved since FDA‑approved since June 2021 for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight and at least one weight-related condition (e.g., hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol).
But, which should you choose? Understanding the key differences between these two medications can help individuals make informed decisions about their weight loss journey.
What is the difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide?
Both semaglutide and tirzepatide are GLP-1 receptor agonists. Studies have shown that GLP-1 RAs are effective for preventing or managing obesity.
Tirzepatide, however, is a dual agonist. It is a GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist. This new class of medication proved to be so effective, it was fast-tracked for FDA-approval as a weight loss medication.
Tirzepatide vs semaglutide mechanism of action
Both semaglutide and tirzepatide are GLP-1 receptor agonists, but tirzepatide is also a GIP receptor agonist.
GLP-1 and GIP are both naturally occurring hormones produced in the small intestine. These hormones work together to control food intake and satiety, energy absorption, and assimilation. These medications mimic the hormones in the body and can help to reduce food intake and increase insulin sensitivity.
Tirzepatide’s dual-agonist nature and impressive 80% bioavailability make it more effective and fast acting than single agonists like semaglutide.
Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide dosage for weight loss
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are completely different medications, so their dosages are not equivalent in terms of the actual dose. You may notice in the charts below that the starting dose for tirzepatide is nearly equal to the maximum dose for semaglutide.
This does not mean that one is more potent than the other. While their dosages may not be the same, both semaglutide and tirzepatide injections do follow a similar dosing schedule.
When starting a weight loss medication, you’ll begin with the lowest available dose. For semaglutide, that’s 0.25 mg; for tirzepatide, it’s 2.5 mg.
After the first 4 weeks, your provider will typically increase the dose every four weeks, depending on your side effects and how well the medication is working for you.
| Semaglutide Starting Dose | Dosage Increase | Dose Increase Schedule | New Semaglutide Dose |
| 0.25 mg | +.025 mg | 4+ weeks | 0.5 mg |
| 0.5 mg | +0.5 mg | 4+ weeks | 1.7 mg |
| 1 mg | +0.7 mg | 4+ weeks | 1.7 mg |
| 1.7 mg | +0.7 mg | 4+ weeks | 2.4 mg |
| 2.4 mg | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Semaglutide is also available in an oral tablet. The dosing for the oral medication is 3 mg, 7 mg, and 14 mg—which are considered equivalent with the injected doses.
| Tirzepatide Starting Dose | Dosage Increase | Dose Increase Schedule | New Tirzepatide Dose |
| 2.5 mg/0.5 mL | +2.5 mg | 4+ weeks | 5 mg/0.5 mL |
| 5 mg/0.5 mL | +2.5 mg | 4+ weeks | 7.5 mg/0.5 mL |
| 7.5 mg/0.5 mL | +2.5 mg | 4+ weeks | 10 mg/0.5 mL |
| 10 mg/0.5 mL | +2.5 mg | 4+ weeks | 12.5 mg/0.5 mL |
| 12.5 mg/0.5 mL | +2.5 mg | 4+ weeks | 15 mg/0.5 mL |
| 15 mg/0.5 mL | N/A | N/A | N/A |
It is very important to note that you should not make dose adjustments without a medical professional.
Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide side effects
Both semaglutide and tirzepatide are GLP-1 receptor agonists. So, while tirzepatide is also a GIP receptor agonist, they have many of the same side effects. Tirzepatide may have higher occurrences of some side effects thanks to its dual agonist nature.
Tirzepatide side effects and semaglutide side effects include:
- Gastrointestinal issues. Issues impacting the GI system are the most common for weight loss medications. Semaglutide and tirzepatide are no different.
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal/stomach pain, and constipation occur frequently in users for both medications. These occur in ≥5% of semaglutide patients compared to 10% of tirzepatide patients. - Headache. While headaches are not likely caused by these medications, they can be an indirect result of other documented side effects of these medications.
- Fatigue. Fatigue is also commonly reported when taking weight loss medications. This is more common in semaglutide users and is reported in less than 5% of Ozempic users and 11% of Wegovy users.
More serious potential side effects include:
- Gallbladder issues
- Pancreatitis
- Potential risk for heightened thyroid c-cell tumors
- Kidney injury
Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide cost for weight loss
Securing insurance coverage for weight loss medications can be challenging, so the cost will often come completely out-of-pocket.
Zepbound, the tirzepatide name brand FDA-approved for weight loss, typically costs about $1000 for a month’s supply.
Wegovy, the semaglutide name brand FDA-approved for weight loss, typically costs $1350 per month.
There are ways to offset the costs for these medications. Heally, for instance, offers subscription programs to help lower the cost of the medication and deliver it straight to your door.
| Subscription Program | Semaglutide Cost | Tirzepatide Cost |
| Monthly | $299/month | $399/month |
| 3-Month Package | $799 | $1125 |
| 6-Month Package | $1549 | $2199 |
| 3-Month Oral Medication | $799 | N/A |
See how Heally can save you money on your weight loss prescription.
Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide weight loss results
Both semaglutide and tirzepatide show promising weight loss results, making them excellent options for individuals looking to manage their weight and improve their overall health.
Semaglutide Weight Loss Results
Semaglutide users can expect to lose between 15 and 20% after one year on the medication. Results will vary by individual and dosage, but a review of studies found that the maximum dose (2.4 mg) showed more promising results than lower doses.
Tirzepatide Weight Loss Results
Similar to semaglutide, tirzepatide users can expect to lose between 15 and 20% of their body weight depending on the maintenance dose. One 72-week trial with a 20-week escalation found these results:
- 5 milligrams weekly: 15% weight reduction
- 10 milligrams weekly: 19.5% weight reduction
- 15 milligrams weekly: 20.9% weight reduction
Further tirzepatide trials have been completed and show that with low-calorie diets and regular exercise, tirzepatide users can expect a total weight reduction of up to 26%.
Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide Weight Loss Results
So, which is the better choice? The general results between semaglutide and tirzepatide are very close. But, studies have found that tirzepatide shows a more significant reduction in body weight and fat mass.
Get your Tirzepatide or Semaglutide prescription online
Getting your weight loss medication has never been easier. Heally’s platform simplifies the process of connecting with a specialized weight loss doctor who can tailor your treatment plan to your unique needs.
Whether you’re starting your treatment or transitioning to a new phase, Heally offers convenient online consultations that fit into your schedule. We even make it easy to save money on your prescriptions. With subscription plans for every budget, you can start your weight loss journey without breaking the bank.
Take the next step towards a healthier you with Heally. Register with Heally today to connect with healthcare providers who can help you determine the most appropriate form and dosing strategy for your needs.
Sources
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA): FDA Approves New Medication for Chronic Weight Management
- Molecular Metabolism Journal: Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1)
- American Gastroenterological Association (AGA): Biology of Incretins: GLP-1 and GIP
- Columbia Surgery: The Ozempic Effect: Everything You Need to Know About Medical Weight Loss
- Eli Lilly: Tirzepatide demonstrated significant and superior weight loss compared to placebo in two pivotal studies
- American Diabetes Association (ADA): Tirzepatide Reduces Appetite, Energy Intake, and Fat Mass in People With Type 2 Diabetes
Important Medical Information and Disclaimers
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Tirzepatide is available as FDA‑approved prescription medications—Mounjaro® (for type 2 diabetes) and Zepbound® (for chronic weight management and obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity). Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment.
INDIVIDUAL RESULTS VARY: Outcomes with tirzepatide vary significantly between individuals. Results may be influenced by treatment adherence, lifestyle modifications, individual metabolism, growth and development (in adolescents), underlying health conditions, and emotional wellbeing.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION:
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Common side effects: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal discomfort, decreased appetite, and injection-site reactions.
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Serious side effects: have included pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, acute kidney injury, hypoglycemia, and severe allergic or injection-site reactions.
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Thyroid considerations: Animal studies demonstrated thyroid C‑cell tumors; the relevance to humans is unknown. Zepbound/Mounjaro is contraindicated for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
COMPOUNDED VERSIONS WARNING: The FDA has issued alerts regarding compounded tirzepatide, warning that these custom formulations may lack the safety, consistency, and efficacy of FDA-approved medications.
FDA ADVERSE EVENT REPORTING: You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription medications. Visit FDA MedWatch at www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1‑800‑FDA‑1088.
