Zepbound (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) are both FDA-approved prescription medications used for chronic weight management in adults who are obese or overweight with at least one weight-related health condition. They are both administered as once-weekly subcutaneous injections.
Here's a comparison of Zepbound and Wegovy:
Mechanism of Action:
Zepbound: Zepbound is a dual-agonist drug, meaning it activates receptors for both GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). These are natural hormones that help regulate appetite, blood sugar levels, and digestion. By activating these receptors, Zepbound can slow down how quickly food moves through the digestive tract, make you feel full for longer, and potentially lower blood sugar levels. This dual action contributes to appetite suppression and food intake reduction.
Wegovy: Wegovy is a single-agonist drug, primarily activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain. GLP-1 mimics the natural hormone to reduce appetite, slow gastric emptying, and promote feelings of fullness.
Effectiveness:
Clinical trials suggest that Zepbound may lead to more significant weight loss than Wegovy.
In one study, patients on Zepbound lost an average of 20.2% of their body weight (approximately 50.3 pounds) after 72 weeks, while those on Wegovy lost an average of 13.7% (approximately 33.1 pounds).
Zepbound also led to a greater reduction in waist circumference (an average of 7.2 inches) compared to Wegovy (an average of 5.1 inches).

I've taken both. Started with Wegovy and then switched to Zepbound. I had no side effects on either. I can't say objectively that one is more effective than the other in my case. I do know that whichever you take, you will still have to follow a calorie restricted diet (I'm on 1200 a day) and exercise regularly.

Aren’t they pretty much the same? I would do what your insurance covers.

Anonymous wrote:Wegovy 100 percent.

This is OP. Thanks. Would that be solely based on $$ considerations?

Wegovy 100 percent.

Having been on both, I would start with the Wegovy since you have insurance coverage. If you develop GI side effects that cannot be mitigated, take a break and then start at the lowest dosage of Zepbound. Only titrate up to the next dose if you are not feeling the appetite suppression.

My research indicates that Zepbound is generally more effective in achieving weight loss goals and maintaining weight.

My provider covers Wegovy, but not Zepbound, so with Zepbound, I'd pay $350 for 2.5 doze or $500 for a larger doze. I can afford it, but would certainly prefer that $500 to go elsewhere.

WWYD based on your understanding/experience?