Losing weight can be tough for many people. Diet and exercise are key, but sometimes they’re not enough. That’s where medications like Zepbound and Wegovy come in.
This article dives into a detailed comparison of Zepbound and Wegovy to help you understand their differences and similarities.
What Are Zepbound and Wegovy?
Zepbound and Wegovy are prescription medications for weight loss. Both are injectable drugs taken once a week. They’re designed for adults with obesity or overweight with related health issues. These drugs work with diet and exercise to help manage weight.
Zepbound, made by Eli Lilly, contains tirzepatide. Wegovy, from Novo Nordisk, uses semaglutide. Both belong to a class called incretin mimetics, which affect hormones that control appetite. They help you feel full longer and eat less.
How Do These Medications Work?
Zepbound and Wegovy mimic hormones that regulate hunger. Wegovy acts like glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that slows digestion and reduces appetite. This makes you feel full after eating less. It also signals the brain to lower food cravings.
Zepbound goes a step further. It mimics both GLP-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). GIP helps regulate blood sugar and fat storage, enhancing weight loss. This dual action sets Zepbound apart in the comparison of Zepbound and Wegovy.
Both drugs also improve blood sugar control. They tell the pancreas to release insulin and reduce glucose production in the liver. This is why their active ingredients are also used in diabetes drugs like Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Ozempic (semaglutide).
FDA Approvals and Uses
Zepbound got FDA approval in November 2023 for weight loss in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with conditions like high cholesterol or hypertension. It’s also approved for treating obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. Zepbound isn’t approved for children.
Wegovy was approved in June 2021 for weight loss in adults and children aged 12 and older with obesity. It’s also approved for adults with overweight and weight-related conditions. In 2024, Wegovy gained approval to reduce heart risks in adults with cardiovascular disease and obesity.
Both drugs are meant to be used with a low-calorie diet and regular exercise. They’re not standalone solutions but tools to support lifestyle changes. Always consult a doctor to see if these drugs fit your health needs.
Effectiveness: Weight Loss Results
Clinical trials show Zepbound may lead to more weight loss than Wegovy. In the SURMOUNT-5 trial, Zepbound users lost an average of 20.2% of their body weight (about 50.3 pounds) over 72 weeks. Wegovy users lost 13.7% (about 33.1 pounds) in the same period.
Another study in the New England Journal of Medicine confirmed Zepbound’s edge. Participants on Zepbound’s highest dose (15 mg) lost up to 21% of their weight, compared to 15% for Wegovy’s highest dose (2.4 mg). Individual results vary based on health and lifestyle.
Zepbound’s dual GIP/GLP-1 action may explain its higher effectiveness. It targets two hormones, potentially boosting appetite control and fat breakdown. Wegovy, with its single GLP-1 action, is still effective but may yield less dramatic results.
Dosage and Administration
Both Zepbound and Wegovy are weekly subcutaneous injections. You inject them under the skin of your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Both come in pre-filled pens, making them easy to use at home.
Zepbound Dosage
Zepbound starts at 2.5 mg weekly for four weeks. The dose can increase to 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, or 15 mg every four weeks, based on tolerance. The maintenance dose is usually 5 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg.
Wegovy Dosage
Wegovy begins at 0.25 mg weekly for four weeks. The dose rises to 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, and up to 2.4 mg every four weeks. The maximum dose is 2.4 mg, which may take longer to reach than Zepbound’s maintenance dose.
Gradual dose increases help reduce side effects like nausea. Your doctor will guide you on the right dose and injection technique. Always follow their instructions for safe use.
Side Effects: What to Expect
Zepbound and Wegovy share similar side effects, mostly affecting the digestive system. These are usually mild and fade as your body adjusts. However, some side effects can be serious, so monitoring is key.
Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions (bruising, itching)
Wegovy may cause more headaches than Zepbound. Both drugs have a boxed warning for the risk of thyroid cancer, based on animal studies. It’s unclear if this risk applies to humans, but those with a history of thyroid cancer should avoid these drugs.
Serious Side Effects
- Pancreatitis
- Gallbladder problems
- Kidney issues
- Severe allergic reactions
- Mental health changes (e.g., depression)
If you experience severe symptoms like intense abdominal pain or swelling in the neck, contact your doctor immediately. Report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Comparing Costs and Insurance Coverage
Zepbound and Wegovy are expensive, with list prices around $1,059.87 and $1,349.02 per month, respectively. Zepbound is generally cheaper by about $300 monthly. Insurance coverage varies widely.
Some plans cover these drugs if prescribed for weight-related conditions like diabetes or high cholesterol. Eli Lilly offers a Zepbound Savings Card, reducing costs to as low as $25 for a one-month supply with commercial insurance. Wegovy’s savings program may lower costs to $0-$225 per 28-day fill.
Check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage. If uninsured, ask about manufacturer discounts or compounded versions, though the FDA warns about safety risks with compounded drugs.
Who Can Use These Medications?
Zepbound is approved for adults with obesity or overweight with conditions like high blood pressure or sleep apnea. It’s not for children or those with a history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2.
Wegovy is approved for adults and children aged 12 and older with obesity. It’s also for adults with overweight and weight-related issues or cardiovascular disease. Like Zepbound, it’s not for those with certain thyroid conditions.
Your doctor will review your medical history to ensure these drugs are safe. They’ll consider factors like your BMI, health conditions, and weight loss goals.
Key Differences at a Glance
Here’s a table summarizing the main differences between Zepbound and Wegovy:
| Feature | Zepbound | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Tirzepatide (GIP/GLP-1 agonist) | Semaglutide (GLP-1 agonist) |
| FDA Approval | November 2023 (weight loss, sleep apnea) | June 2021 (weight loss, heart risks) |
| Age Group | Adults only | Adults and children 12+ |
| Average Weight Loss | 20.2% (50.3 lbs) over 72 weeks | 13.7% (33.1 lbs) over 72 weeks |
| Starting Dose | 2.5 mg weekly | 0.25 mg weekly |
| Maximum Dose | 15 mg weekly | 2.4 mg weekly |
| List Price (Monthly) | ~$1,059.87 | ~$1,349.02 |
This table highlights why Zepbound may be preferred for greater weight loss, while Wegovy suits a broader age range and heart health benefits.
Lifestyle Changes for Best Results
Zepbound and Wegovy work best with a healthy lifestyle. A balanced, low-calorie diet helps maximize weight loss. Regular exercise, like walking or strength training, boosts results and overall health.
These drugs aren’t a quick fix. They help control hunger, but long-term success depends on sustainable habits. Work with a dietitian or doctor to create a plan that fits your needs.
Switching Between Zepbound and Wegovy
Some people switch from Wegovy to Zepbound for better weight loss or due to drug shortages. Zepbound’s availability has been more consistent recently. Switching requires a doctor’s guidance to adjust doses safely.
If you’re not seeing results with Wegovy or have side effects, Zepbound might be an option. Its dual action could break through weight loss plateaus. Always consult your doctor before switching.
Which Drug Is Right for You?
Choosing between Zepbound and Wegovy depends on your health goals and medical history. Zepbound may be better for those seeking maximum weight loss. Wegovy is ideal for adolescents or those with heart disease.
Cost, insurance, and side effect tolerance also matter. Discuss these factors with your doctor to find the best fit. They’ll help weigh the pros and cons based on your needs.
Summary
The comparison of Zepbound and Wegovy shows both are effective for weight loss, but they differ in key ways. Zepbound, with its dual GIP/GLP-1 action, leads to greater weight loss (20.2% vs. 13.7% over 72 weeks). Wegovy is approved for a broader age range and heart health benefits. Both require weekly injections and lifestyle changes for best results. Side effects are similar, but costs and insurance coverage vary. Consult your doctor to decide which drug aligns with your goals.
FAQ
What’s the main difference between Zepbound and Wegovy?
Zepbound mimics two hormones (GLP-1 and GIP), while Wegovy mimics one (GLP-1). This makes Zepbound potentially more effective for weight loss. Both are weekly injections for adults with obesity or overweight.
Are Zepbound and Wegovy safe for everyone?
No, they’re not safe for people with a history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2. Always consult a doctor to check if they’re right for you.
How much weight can I lose with these drugs?
Zepbound users lost about 20.2% of body weight (50.3 lbs) in 72 weeks, while Wegovy users lost 13.7% (33.1 lbs). Results vary based on diet, exercise, and health.
Do insurance plans cover Zepbound and Wegovy?
Coverage varies by plan. Some cover these drugs for weight-related conditions. Manufacturer savings cards can lower costs, with Zepbound at ~$1,059.87 and Wegovy at ~$1,349.02 monthly.
Can I switch from Wegovy to Zepbound?
Yes, but only under a doctor’s guidance. Switching may help with weight loss plateaus or availability issues. Dose adjustments are needed to minimize side effects.