Zepbound vs Wegovy
Editorial comparison of Zepbound (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide). Same drug class context, trial-anchored data, no marketing claims.
Side-by-side
| Dimension | Zepbound | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | tirzepatide | semaglutide |
| Manufacturer | Eli Lilly | Novo Nordisk |
| FDA approved | 2023 | 2021 |
| Mechanism | Tirzepatide is a dual incretin agonist: it hits both the GLP-1 receptor (like semaglutide) and the GIP receptor (which semaglutide doesn't). | Semaglutide mimics GLP-1, a gut hormone released after meals. |
| Dosing | Titrated 2.5mg → 5mg → 7.5mg → 10mg → 12.5mg → 15mg, every 4 weeks. Maintenance 5-15mg weekly depending on tolerability and target weight. | Titrated over 4-5 months: 0.25mg → 0.5mg → 1mg → 1.7mg → 2.4mg, increasing every 4 weeks. |
| Cost | List price ~$1,000-1,300/month. | List price ~$1,350/month without insurance. |
| Pivotal trial result | 20.9% mean body-weight reduction at 72 weeks (15 mg dose) | 14.9% mean body-weight reduction at 68 weeks |
Full Zepbound review →
Dual GLP-1/GIP agonist for weight management. ~20% body weight loss in trials — strongest weight-loss drug currently available.
Full Wegovy review →
Once-weekly injectable semaglutide for chronic weight management. ~15% body weight loss in trials.
Frequently asked
Is Zepbound or Wegovy more effective?+
In their pivotal trials, Zepbound reported 20.9% mean body-weight reduction at 72 weeks (15 mg dose), while Wegovy reported 14.9% mean body-weight reduction at 68 weeks. Head-to-head results vary by patient profile, dose tolerated, and adherence — these trial numbers describe averages, not what every individual experiences.
How do Zepbound and Wegovy compare on cost?+
Zepbound: List price ~$1,000-1,300/month. Lilly's patient assistance program (LillyDirect Self-Pay) offers $399-549/month for self-pay patients depending on dose. Insurance coverage similar pattern to Wegovy. Wegovy: List price ~$1,350/month without insurance. With Novo Nordisk's patient assistance program, eligible self-pay patients can access at $200-500/month. Insurance coverage is patchy and often requires prior authorization plus a documented weight-related comorbidity. Real out-of-pocket depends on insurance formulary tier, manufacturer savings programs, and whether a direct-pay channel is available.
Can I switch from Zepbound to Wegovy?+
Switching between brand-name treatments in the same drug class is common, but the conversion is not always 1:1. Discuss the switch with your prescriber — they'll usually re-titrate dosing rather than substitute equivalent strengths directly.
Are Zepbound and Wegovy the same drug?+
No. Zepbound (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) are distinct medications from Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk respectively. They may share a drug class or mechanism but differ in active ingredient, dosing, and approved use.