Skip to content
Free Tool Arena

Head-to-head · GLP-1 weight management

Wegovy vs Zepbound

Wegovy (semaglutide) vs Zepbound (tirzepatide) for chronic weight management: efficacy, side effects, cost, dosing. Educational, not medical advice.

Updated May 2026 · 7 min read
100% in-browserNo downloadsNo sign-upMalware-freeHow we keep this safe →

Wegovy (Novo Nordisk's semaglutide) and Zepbound (Eli Lilly's tirzepatide) are the two FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonists specifically for chronic weight management as of 2026. Both are weekly injections. Educational only — talk to your doctor.

Advertisement

Option 1

Wegovy (semaglutide)

Single-mechanism GLP-1 agonist; longer track record.

Best for

Patients responsive to GLP-1 alone, those wanting longer track record + cardiovascular outcome data.

Pros

  • FDA-approved for weight management since 2021
  • Strong cardiovascular outcome trial data (SELECT trial)
  • Average ~15% body weight loss in trials
  • Available oral version (Rybelsus)

Cons

  • Slightly less weight loss than Zepbound on average
  • Same side-effect profile (GI, fatigue, possible muscle loss)
  • Same supply/availability issues during shortages

Option 2

Zepbound (tirzepatide)

Dual GLP-1 + GIP agonist; higher efficacy.

Best for

Patients wanting maximum weight-loss efficacy.

Pros

  • Average ~22% body weight loss in trials (vs 15% Wegovy)
  • Better A1C reduction in head-to-head trials (SURMOUNT)
  • Dual mechanism may reduce GI side effects for some users

Cons

  • Newer (FDA-approved 2023)
  • Less long-term data
  • Cardiovascular outcome trials still maturing

The verdict

Most patients respond well to either. Zepbound produces more weight loss on average; Wegovy has the longer track record + stronger cardiovascular outcome evidence. Final pick usually comes down to insurance coverage + prescriber preference. NOT medical advice — discuss with your doctor.

Run the numbers yourself

Plug your own inputs into the free tool below — no signup, works in your browser, nothing sent to a server.

Free toolMacro CalculatorGet your daily protein, carb, and fat targets based on calories and goals. Free, no sign-up.Open tool →

Frequently asked questions

Cost?

Both ~$1,000-1,400/mo retail. Insurance coverage uneven (often requires BMI 30+ or specific comorbidities). Compounded versions cheaper but less reliable.

Side effects?

Similar profile: GI upset (nausea, constipation, diarrhea), fatigue, possible muscle loss without strength training. Most resolve with dose titration.

More head-to-head comparisons