Wegovy and Zepbound are two popular medications for weight loss. Both are once-weekly injections that help reduce appetite and support health goals. What’s better Wegovy or Zepbound? This article compares their effectiveness, uses, and side effects to help you decide.
Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide) target hormones to promote fullness and weight loss. Each has unique benefits and considerations based on your health needs. Choosing the right one depends on factors like medical history and lifestyle.
This guide explores how these drugs work, their differences, and practical tips for use. With clear insights, you can discuss the best option with your doctor.
Understanding Wegovy and Zepbound
Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight loss in adults and adolescents aged 12 and older with obesity or overweight with related conditions. It’s also approved to reduce cardiovascular risks in adults with heart disease. The active ingredient, semaglutide, mimics the GLP-1 hormone to curb appetite.
Zepbound is approved for adults with obesity or overweight with conditions like type 2 diabetes. It’s also used for moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea. Tirzepatide, its active ingredient, mimics both GLP-1 and GIP hormones for enhanced weight loss.
Both drugs are used with diet and exercise. Clinical trials show significant weight loss, but their mechanisms and approvals differ.
How They Work for Weight Loss
Wegovy works by mimicking GLP-1, which slows stomach emptying and signals fullness to the brain. This reduces food intake, leading to weight loss. In trials, users lost about 15% of body weight over 68 weeks.
Zepbound targets both GLP-1 and GIP hormones, improving sugar and fat metabolism while reducing appetite. It showed up to 20.2% weight loss in 72 weeks in a head-to-head trial.
The dual action of Zepbound may lead to greater weight loss. However, individual results vary based on health and adherence.
Effectiveness: A Head-to-Head Comparison
What’s better Wegovy or Zepbound for weight loss? A 2024 head-to-head trial (SURMOUNT-5) showed Zepbound users lost 20.2% of body weight (50.3 lbs) compared to 13.7% (33.1 lbs) for Wegovy over 72 weeks.
Zepbound outperformed Wegovy in all weight reduction targets. For example, 64.6% of Zepbound users lost at least 15% of body weight versus 40.1% for Wegovy. It also reduced waist circumference more significantly.
Both drugs are effective, but Zepbound’s dual-hormone action may offer an edge. Your doctor will assess which suits your goals.
Approved Uses and Eligibility
Wegovy is approved for adults and adolescents (12+) with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with conditions like high blood pressure. It’s also approved for heart disease risk reduction and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH).
Zepbound is for adults with obesity or overweight with conditions like type 2 diabetes or sleep apnea. It’s not approved for adolescents or heart disease prevention.
Eligibility depends on your BMI, health conditions, and age. Discuss your medical history with your doctor to determine suitability.
Dosing Schedules
Wegovy starts at 0.25 mg weekly, increasing every four weeks to 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, and up to 2.4 mg. The maintenance dose is typically 1.7 mg or 2.4 mg. This gradual increase minimizes side effects.
Zepbound begins at 2.5 mg weekly, rising to 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, or 15 mg every four weeks. Some stay on 5 mg, while others reach 15 mg for maximum effect.
Zepbound may reach its maintenance dose faster. Your doctor will adjust based on tolerance and goals.
Side Effects and Tolerability
Both drugs have similar side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain. These are usually mild and decrease over time. Zepbound may cause less vomiting due to its GIP action, which can suppress nausea.
Wegovy users may experience more headaches, while Zepbound’s side effects are primarily gastrointestinal. In trials, 6.1% of Zepbound users and 8% of Wegovy users stopped due to side effects.
Serious risks, like pancreatitis or thyroid tumors, are rare. Report severe symptoms to your doctor immediately.
Comparing Key Features
The table below highlights differences between Wegovy and Zepbound to help you compare.
| Feature | Wegovy | Zepbound |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Semaglutide (GLP-1 agonist) | Tirzepatide (GLP-1 and GIP agonist) |
| Weight Loss | ~13.7% (33.1 lbs) in 72 weeks | ~20.2% (50.3 lbs) in 72 weeks |
| Approved Ages | 12 and older | Adults only |
| Other Uses | Heart disease, MASH | Sleep apnea |
Zepbound shows greater weight loss, but Wegovy has broader approvals.
Cost and Accessibility
Without insurance, both drugs cost over $1,000 monthly. Zepbound is slightly cheaper at $1,059.87 versus Wegovy’s $1,349.02 per month. Manufacturer savings cards or GoodRx discounts can lower costs.
Insurance coverage varies and often requires prior authorization. Medicare and Medicaid may cover these drugs in some cases. Check with your provider for eligibility.
Your doctor can guide you on cost-saving options. They may also suggest switching between drugs if one is more affordable.
Lifestyle Support for Success
Both drugs work best with a reduced-calorie diet and exercise. Eat lean proteins, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats to support weight loss. Small, frequent meals help manage side effects like nausea.
Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, like walking or cycling. Strength training twice weekly boosts metabolism. A dietitian can create a tailored plan.
Lifestyle changes enhance results. Consistency in diet and activity maximizes benefits from either drug.
Switching Between Wegovy and Zepbound
You can switch from Wegovy to Zepbound if you hit a weight loss plateau or prefer Zepbound’s results. Never take both drugs together, as they increase side effect risks. Your doctor will set a starting dose for the new medication.
Switching requires medical supervision to adjust doses and monitor side effects. Regular check-ins ensure a smooth transition. Discuss reasons for switching, like cost or tolerability, with your doctor.
Some users tolerate one drug better than the other. Your response will guide the decision to switch.
Consulting Your Doctor
Your doctor will help decide what’s better Wegovy or Zepbound for you. They’ll review your BMI, health conditions, and goals. Share any history of heart disease, diabetes, or side effect concerns.
They can explain dosing, costs, and insurance options. Regular follow-ups monitor progress and adjust treatment. Never start or stop these drugs without medical guidance.
For more information, visit Eli Lilly (Zepbound) or Novo Nordisk (Wegovy) websites. They offer resources on uses and savings programs.
Real-Life User Experiences
Users on platforms like X share their stories. One Zepbound user lost 45 pounds in a year, citing fewer cravings and less nausea than expected. They paired it with a low-carb diet.
A Wegovy user reported 30 pounds lost but switched to Zepbound for better results. These experiences vary, so work with your doctor to find the best fit.
Individual responses differ. Your health and lifestyle will shape your outcome with either drug.
Long-Term Considerations
Both drugs are intended for long-term use to maintain weight loss. Stopping Wegovy led to two-thirds of weight regained in one year in a study. Zepbound may have similar risks.
Continue diet and exercise after stopping either drug to prevent regain. Regular doctor visits track weight, blood sugar, and other health markers. Blood tests may monitor kidney or liver function.
Discuss long-term plans with your doctor. They’ll ensure your treatment remains safe and effective.
Summary
What’s better Wegovy or Zepbound? Zepbound shows greater weight loss (20.2% vs. 13.7% in 72 weeks) due to its dual-hormone action, while Wegovy offers benefits for heart disease and adolescent use. Both are effective with diet and exercise but have similar side effects like nausea. Cost, insurance, and medical history influence the choice. Consult your doctor to pick the best option and monitor progress for lasting results.
FAQ
Which drug leads to more weight loss, Wegovy or Zepbound?
Zepbound leads to more weight loss, with 20.2% body weight reduction versus Wegovy’s 13.7% in a 72-week trial. Individual results vary. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Can I use Wegovy or Zepbound if I have heart disease?
Wegovy is FDA-approved to reduce heart disease risks in adults with obesity or overweight. Zepbound isn’t approved for this use. Discuss your heart health with your doctor.
Are side effects worse with Zepbound or Wegovy?
Side effects like nausea and diarrhea are similar for both. Zepbound may cause less vomiting, but Wegovy may lead to more headaches. Your doctor can help manage side effects.
Can I switch from Wegovy to Zepbound?
Yes, under medical supervision, you can switch for better results or tolerability. Never take both together. Your doctor will adjust dosing and monitor your response.
Dr. Hamza is a medical content reviewer with over 12+ years of experience in healthcare research and patient education. He specializes in evidence-based health information, medications, and chronic conditions. His reviews are grounded in trusted medical sources and current clinical guidelines to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Content reviewed by Dr. Hamza is intended for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.