Weight management comparison
Wegovy® vs Zepbound®
The two FDA-approved GLP-1 options for weight management. Wegovy and Zepbound are the only two GLP-1 medications specifically FDA-approved for chronic weight management. This page compares them using data from their pivotal clinical trials.
- Compared
- Wegovy® · Zepbound®
- Sources
- STEP 1 and SURMOUNT-1 (NEJM), FDA labels
FDA-approved for weight management
While other GLP-1 medications (like Ozempic and Mounjaro) are sometimes prescribed off-label for weight loss, Wegovy and Zepbound are the only two that have received specific FDA approval for chronic weight management based on dedicated obesity clinical trials.
Different mechanisms, same goal
Wegovy (semaglutide) targets GLP-1 receptors, while Zepbound (tirzepatide) targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. Despite different mechanisms, both are indicated for the same purpose: long-term weight management in adults who meet specific BMI criteria.
Side by side
Clinical trial data and key facts from published sources.
| Feature | Wegovy® | Zepbound® |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide |
| Drug class | GLP-1 receptor agonist | Dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist |
| FDA-approved for | Chronic weight management | Chronic weight management |
| Manufacturer | Novo Nordisk | Eli Lilly |
| Administration | Weekly injection | Weekly injection |
| FDA approval | June 2021 | November 2023 |
| Pivotal trial | STEP 1 | SURMOUNT-1 |
| Avg weight loss | ~15% body weight | ~21% body weight |
| Trial duration | 68 weeks | 72 weeks |
| Trial participants | 1,961 | 2,539 |
| Approx list price | ~$1,349/month | ~$1,059/month |
Clinical trial results
Both medications were studied in dedicated weight management clinical trial programs.
Wegovy®: STEP 1 trial
- Participants: 1,961 adults with BMI of 30 or greater (or 27 or greater with comorbidities).
- Duration: 68 weeks.
- Results: Average weight loss of approximately 14.9% of body weight, compared to 2.4% with placebo.
- Published: New England Journal of Medicine, February 2021.
Zepbound®: SURMOUNT-1 trial
- Participants: 2,539 adults with BMI of 30 or greater (or 27 or greater with comorbidities).
- Duration: 72 weeks.
- Results: Average weight loss of approximately 20.9% of body weight at the highest dose, compared to 3.1% with placebo.
- Published: New England Journal of Medicine, July 2022.
Important
No direct head-to-head clinical trial comparing Wegovy and Zepbound for weight loss has been published. The data above comes from separate trials with different study populations and slightly different durations. Cross-trial comparisons have inherent limitations and should be interpreted with caution.
Key differences
Three fundamental ways these weight management medications differ.
Mechanism
Wegovy targets GLP-1 receptors only. Zepbound targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. This dual-receptor approach is a newer pharmacological strategy that may contribute to different clinical outcomes, though the exact relationship is still being studied.
Clinical data
Published trial data shows average weight loss of approximately 15% with Wegovy (STEP 1) and approximately 21% with Zepbound at the highest dose (SURMOUNT-1). These come from separate trials. Individual results vary significantly from averages.
Cost
Published list prices are approximately $1,349/month for Wegovy and $1,059/month for Zepbound. However, actual out-of-pocket costs depend on insurance coverage, pharmacy, and manufacturer savings programs, and may differ significantly from list prices.
Talk to your doctor
This comparison presents published clinical data to help you have an informed conversation with your healthcare provider. Only your doctor can determine which medication is right for your individual situation.
Factors your doctor may consider include your medical history, BMI, existing conditions, insurance coverage, treatment goals, and how you respond to medication. The best choice depends on your unique health profile.
Neither this page nor any online resource should replace personalized medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
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Questions people ask
Which is more effective, Wegovy or Zepbound?
Separate clinical trials showed different average results: approximately 15% body weight loss with Wegovy (STEP 1, 68 weeks) and approximately 21% with Zepbound at the highest dose (SURMOUNT-1, 72 weeks). However, no direct head-to-head trial has been published, and these trials enrolled different populations. Individual results vary significantly.
Is Zepbound cheaper than Wegovy?
Published list prices are approximately $1,059/month for Zepbound and $1,349/month for Wegovy. However, actual costs depend on insurance coverage, pharmacy, and available savings programs. Many patients pay significantly less than list price. Contact your insurance provider and pharmacy for accurate pricing.
Are Wegovy and Zepbound the same medication?
No. They contain different active ingredients. Wegovy contains semaglutide, which targets GLP-1 receptors. Zepbound contains tirzepatide, which targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. They are made by different pharmaceutical companies (Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, respectively).
Can you switch from Wegovy to Zepbound?
Any medication switch should be managed by your healthcare provider. Since these are different medications with different active ingredients, transitioning requires medical supervision to ensure safety and appropriate management.
Which has been available longer?
Wegovy was approved by the FDA in June 2021 and has been on the market longer than Zepbound, which was approved in November 2023. Longer market availability means more real-world prescribing experience with Wegovy.
Does Dose AI support both Wegovy and Zepbound?
Yes. Dose AI works with any GLP-1 medication, including both Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide). The app tracks your injections, symptoms, weight, nutrition, and more regardless of which medication you take.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health or medications.