Introduction

If you’ve heard of Zepbound and Mounjaro, you might be wondering—what’s the difference?

Spoiler: they both contain the same active ingredient (tirzepatide), but they’re FDA-approved for different purposes.

In this blog, we’ll break down Zepbound vs Mounjaro—what’s the same, what’s different, and when it matters (especially for insurance, cost, and availability).

Quick Comparison

Feature	Zepbound	Mounjaro
FDA Approved For	Chronic weight management	Type 2 diabetes
Active Ingredient	Tirzepatide	Tirzepatide
Launch Year	2023	2022
Dosing	Weekly injection (5–15 mg)	Weekly injection (5–15 mg)
Insurance Coverage	Sometimes covered (weight loss)	Often covered (diabetes)
Savings Programs	Zepbound Card	Mounjaro Card

Both medications are manufactured by Eli Lilly and use the same pens and doses.

What’s the Same?

Same active ingredient – Tirzepatide
Same GLP-1 + GIP mechanism – Dual hormone therapy
Same dosage range – 2.5 mg to 15 mg weekly
Same potential side effects – Nausea, constipation, fatigue, etc.
Same injection pens – Identical in look and function

Many users switch between the two based on insurance coverage or pricing.

What’s Different?

Category	Zepbound	Mounjaro
FDA Approval	Weight loss (BMI-based)	Type 2 diabetes only
Labeling	Prescribed for obesity	Prescribed for blood sugar control
Insurance Access	Less commonly covered (2024–2025)	Widely covered for diabetes
Cost (U.S. retail)	~$1,060/month	~$1,060/month
Online Prescriptions	Easier access via telehealth for weight loss	Requires diabetes diagnosis

Can You Use Mounjaro for Weight Loss?

Yes—but that’s called off-label use, meaning it’s being prescribed for a condition not officially approved by the FDA.

Some providers will prescribe Mounjaro off-label for weight loss, especially if:

• Your insurance doesn’t cover Zepbound

• You meet the clinical criteria for medical obesity

• You’re paying out of pocket or using a savings card

Related: What Does “Off-Label Use” Mean in Prescriptions?

Which Is Cheaper?

Out-of-pocket prices are similar: around $1,000/month.

With a savings card or insurance:

Medication	Cost with Savings Card	Notes
Zepbound	As low as $25/month	Requires commercial insurance
Mounjaro	As low as $25/month	For Type 2 diabetes only

Both programs have strict eligibility requirements. Check the links above to verify.

Who Should Use Zepbound?

Individuals with:

• BMI ≥30, or

• BMI ≥27 with a weight-related condition (PCOS, hypertension, etc.)

• No diagnosis of diabetes

• Goals focused on fat loss and long-term weight management

Who Should Use Mounjaro?

Individuals with:

• Diagnosed Type 2 diabetes

• A1C above 7.0% despite other medications

• Insurance plans that cover diabetes meds more easily

• Need for blood sugar control + weight loss benefits

Can You Switch Between Zepbound and Mounjaro?

Yes—since they are formally identical medications, many providers allow switching depending on:

• Insurance coverage

• Supply shortages

• Pricing strategies

Always discuss with your provider to ensure proper documentation and approval.

Final Thoughts

Zepbound and Mounjaro are essentially the same drug—but with different FDA approvals, insurance coverage rules, and prescribing patterns. The best option for you often depends on your health history and how you plan to pay.

Zepbound = best for weight loss without diabetes
Mounjaro = best for people with Type 2 diabetes
Both deliver powerful fat loss and metabolic benefits

Visit: Zepbound vs Mounjaro Comparison  for side-by-side charts, insurance scripts, and savings links.