Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide: Which GLP-1 Is Better for Weight Loss? (2025)
Last Updated: October 17, 2025
Quick Answer
Tirzepatide typically produces 20-25% more weight loss than semaglutide due to its dual-hormone mechanism, but semaglutide may be more affordable and widely covered by insurance. Your best choice depends on budget, insurance coverage, and individual tolerance.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into comparisons, let's clarify what we're comparing:
Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy/Rybelsus)
Brand Names:
- Ozempic: FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (2017)
- Wegovy: FDA-approved for weight loss (2021)
- Rybelsus: Oral version for diabetes (2019)
Mechanism: GLP-1 receptor agonist (single-hormone action)
Administration:
- Weekly injection (Ozempic/Wegovy)
- Daily oral tablet (Rybelsus)
Key Feature: First major breakthrough in GLP-1 medications for weight loss
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound)
Brand Names:
- Mounjaro: FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (2022)
- Zepbound: FDA-approved for weight loss (2023)
Mechanism: Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist (dual-hormone action)
Administration: Weekly injection only (no oral version yet)
Key Feature: First and only dual-receptor agonist, showing superior weight loss results
Detailed Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | GLP-1 only | GLP-1 + GIP dual action | Tirzepatide |
| Average Weight Loss | 12-15% | 15-22% | Tirzepatide 🏆 |
| Monthly Cost (brand) | $1,300-$1,500 | $1,000-$1,350 | Tirzepatide 🏆 |
| Monthly Cost (compounded) | $200-$400 | $250-$600 | Semaglutide 🏆 |
| Insurance Coverage | More widespread | Limited but growing | Semaglutide 🏆 |
| Dosing Frequency | Once weekly | Once weekly | Tie |
| Oral Option | Yes (Rybelsus) | No (in trials) | Semaglutide 🏆 |
| Side Effects | Moderate | Moderate to high | Semaglutide |
| Clinical Trial Data | 5+ years | 3 years | Semaglutide 🏆 |
Weight Loss Results Comparison
Key Findings from Clinical Trials
Semaglutide Results:
- Average weight loss: 12-15% of initial body weight
- STEP trials showed 14.9% average weight loss at 68 weeks
- 68% of participants lost ≥10% body weight
- 32% of participants lost ≥20% body weight
Tirzepatide Results:
- Average weight loss: 15-22% of initial body weight
- SURMOUNT trials showed 20.9% average weight loss at 72 weeks
- 91% of participants lost ≥10% body weight
- 57% of participants lost ≥20% body weight
Tirzepatide produces approximately 20-25% more weight loss than semaglutide, with a higher percentage of patients achieving significant weight loss milestones.
Cost Comparison Analysis
Brand Name Medications
Semaglutide Brands:
- Ozempic: $1,300-$1,500/month
- Wegovy: $1,300-$1,500/month
- Rybelsus: $800-$1,000/month
Tirzepatide Brands:
- Mounjaro: $1,000-$1,200/month
- Zepbound: $1,100-$1,350/month
Compounded Options
Compounded Semaglutide:
- Typical range: $200-$400/month
- Often more affordable
- Available through compounding pharmacies
Compounded Tirzepatide:
- Typical range: $250-$600/month
- Still more affordable than brand names
- Availability may be limited
💡 Cost-Saving Tips:
- Check manufacturer savings cards (up to $500/month discount)
- Compare prices at different pharmacies
- Consider compounded options if appropriate
- Check insurance coverage and prior authorization requirements
Side Effects Comparison
Semaglutide Side Effects
Most Common:
- Nausea (20-30%)
- Diarrhea (15-20%)
- Vomiting (10-15%)
- Constipation (10-15%)
Severity:
Generally mild to moderate, often improve over time
Tirzepatide Side Effects
Most Common:
- Nausea (25-35%)
- Diarrhea (20-25%)
- Vomiting (15-20%)
- Constipation (15-20%)
Severity:
May be slightly more intense due to dual mechanism
⚠️ Important Safety Notes:
- Both medications carry black box warnings for thyroid tumors
- Not recommended for people with certain medical conditions
- Side effects typically improve over time with proper dosing
- Always consult with healthcare provider about side effects
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Tirzepatide if:
- Maximum weight loss is your primary goal
- You can afford the higher cost or have good insurance coverage
- You tolerate medications well
- You have both diabetes and weight loss needs
- You want the most effective option available
Choose Semaglutide if:
- Cost and insurance coverage are major concerns
- You prefer a medication with longer track record
- You want an oral option (Rybelsus)
- You're sensitive to medication side effects
- You prefer starting with a more established option
Still Unsure?
Both medications are highly effective for weight loss. The best choice depends on your individual circumstances, goals, and medical history.
Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine which medication is most appropriate for your specific situation.
Related Calculator Tools
Semaglutide Dosage Calculator
Calculate the right semaglutide dosage for your weight loss goals
Use Semaglutide CalculatorTirzepatide Dosage Calculator
Calculate the right tirzepatide dosage for optimal results
Use Tirzepatide Calculator