GLP-1 vs Dual GIP/GLP-1
Reviewed by Dr Lucy NewtonComparing the two most effective weight loss compounds available. Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) vs Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound).
Both are available as compounded medications at significantly lower prices than brand-name versions.
Side-by-side comparison based on 10,000+ Reddit discussions
| Feature | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide | Source Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | GLP-1 agonist | GIP/GLP-1 agonist | Tirzepatide is dual-action |
| Brand Names | Ozempic, Wegovy | Mounjaro, Zepbound | Multiple brands each |
| Typical Weight Loss | 13.7% | 20.2% | SURMOUNT-5 head-to-head trial |
| Cardiovascular Data | Proven reduction | Strong risk reduction* | *Nature Medicine 2025 real-world |
| Compounded Cost | $175-400/mo | $250-450/mo | Verified provider pricing |
| Self-Pay Brand | $149-499/mo | $399-549/mo | NovoCare vs LillyDirect (2026) |
| Oral Option | Yes (Wegovy Pill) | Expected Late 2026 | New needle-free alternatives |
| Supply Status | Resolved | Available | FDA shortage tracker Jan 2026 |
Tirzepatide is dual-action
Multiple brands each
SURMOUNT-5 head-to-head trial
*Nature Medicine 2025 real-world
Verified provider pricing
NovoCare vs LillyDirect (2026)
New needle-free alternatives
FDA shortage tracker Jan 2026
Data from the SURMOUNT-5 (The New England Journal of Medicine (2025))
The SURMOUNT-5 trial was the first large-scale, head-to-head study directly comparing semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) for weight loss in adults with obesity or overweight. This landmark trial confirmed the superior weight loss efficacy of the dual-agonist approach.
| Comparison Metric | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide |
|---|---|---|
| Average Weight Loss (%) | 13.7% | 20.2% |
| Lost >15% Body Weight | 45.1% | 71.3% |
| Lost >20% Body Weight | 28.1% | 52.5% |
| Lost >25% Body Weight | 13.6% | 33.1% |
| Waist Circumference Reduction | -10.5 cm | -15.3 cm |
"Clinical data from the SURMOUNT-5 head-to-head trial confirms that tirzepatide's dual GIP/GLP-1 mechanism is significantly more effective than semaglutide's single GLP-1 mechanism for weight reduction. Patients on tirzepatide lost nearly 50% more weight on average compared to those on semaglutide."
Results were statistically significant (p < 0.001) across all primary endpoints.
Latest verification performed January 2026.
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