Diabetes Drug vs Weight Loss Drug
Reviewed by Dr Lucy NewtonOzempic (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide) are different molecules with different FDA indications—diabetes vs weight loss. Zepbound shows higher weight loss.
See what users who've tried both medications say about effectiveness, side effects, and insurance.
Side-by-side comparison based on 10,000+ Reddit discussions
| Feature | Ozempic | Zepbound | Source Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide | Single vs Dual agonist |
| Mechanism | GLP-1 Only | Dual GIP/GLP-1 | Zepbound targets two pathways |
| Typical Weight Loss | ~10% | 20.2% | SURMOUNT-5 head-to-head weight loss data |
| Primary Indication | Type 2 Diabetes | Weight Loss | FDA-approved target uses |
| 2026 List Price | $968/mo | $1,060/mo | Novo vs Lilly list pricing |
| Self-Pay Options | NovoCare | LillyDirect Vials | Self-pay program availability |
| Cardiovascular Data | Proven Benefit | 42% MACE reduction* | *Nature Medicine 2025 (T2D population) |
| Titration Period | 8-12 weeks | 20 weeks | Standard FDA titration schedules |
Single vs Dual agonist
Zepbound targets two pathways
SURMOUNT-5 head-to-head weight loss data
FDA-approved target uses
Novo vs Lilly list pricing
Self-pay program availability
*Nature Medicine 2025 (T2D population)
Standard FDA titration schedules
Data from the SURMOUNT-5 & Nature Medicine (2025) (NEJM / Nature Medicine)
Ozempic (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide) are often compared for weight loss. While Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, Zepbound is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist. Recent head-to-head clinical data (SURMOUNT-5) and real-world studies provide a direct comparison of their weight-loss potency.
| Comparison Metric | Ozempic | Zepbound |
|---|---|---|
| Max Weight Loss (%) | 13.7% | 20.2% |
| HbA1c Reduction (%) | -2.1% | -2.30% |
| Cardiovascular Risk | Proven | 42% MACE reduction* |
| Mechanism | GLP-1 Only | Dual GIP/GLP-1 |
| Lost >20% Body Weight | 28.1% | 52.5% |
"Clinical data from the SURMOUNT-5 trial confirms that Zepbound (tirzepatide) is significantly more effective than semaglutide for weight loss. Additionally, 2025 Nature Medicine data suggests tirzepatide may offer superior cardiovascular protection in diabetic populations. However, Ozempic remains the most studied and widely covered GLP-1 for diabetes specifically."
Results were statistically significant (p < 0.001) across all primary endpoints.
Latest verification performed January 2026.
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