Zepbound vs Ozempic: Are They the Same?

Zepbound vs Ozempic: Are They the Same?

Introduction


If you’re trying to lose weight, you’ve likely heard of Zepbound and Ozempic. Both are popular injectable medications that help reduce appetite and promote weight loss—but are they actually the same thing?


In this post, we’ll explain the key differences between Zepbound and Ozempic, including their ingredients, effectiveness, FDA approvals, and which one might be right for you.


At a Glance


Feature

Zepbound

Ozempic

Active Ingredient

Tirzepatide

Semaglutide

Hormone Type

GLP-1 + GIP agonist

GLP-1 agonist only

FDA Approval

Weight loss (2023)

Type 2 diabetes (2017)

Approved for Weight Loss?

✅ Yes

❌ Not officially (off-label)

Average Weight Loss

15–22.5% of body weight

10–15% of body weight

Injection Frequency

Weekly

Weekly

Active Ingredient & How They Work


Zepbound (tirzepatide):

  • Activates two gut hormones: GLP-1 + GIP

  • Improves satiety, slows digestion, boosts insulin sensitivity

  • Enhances fat loss and metabolic function

Ozempic (semaglutide):

  • Activates GLP-1 only

  • Suppresses appetite and slows gastric emptying

  • Helps lower blood sugar and reduce body weight

📌 Zepbound is sometimes referred to as a “next-gen GLP-1” due to its dual-hormone action.


Weight Loss Comparison


Medication

Avg. Weight Loss

FDA Trial

Duration

Zepbound

Up to 22.5%

SURMOUNT-1

72 weeks

Ozempic

10–15% (off-label)

SUSTAIN-6 & others

68 weeks

📚 Zepbound Trial – NEJM


 📚 Ozempic Data – FDA Label


💡 Zepbound produces significantly more weight loss on average.


FDA Approval Status


Medication

Approved for Weight Loss?

Zepbound

✅ Yes (BMI ≥30 or ≥27 w/ comorbidity)

Ozempic

❌ No – Approved for diabetes only

⚠️ Ozempic is often used off-label for weight loss, but this use is not FDA-approved.


Cost & Insurance


Medication

Retail Cost (U.S.)

Savings Card Options

Insurance Coverage

Zepbound

~$1,060/month

Savings Card

✅ With PA for weight loss

Ozempic

~$900–$1,200/month

Ozempic Card

✅ Often covered (for diabetes)

💡 If you do not have Type 2 diabetes, you likely won’t get Ozempic covered by insurance—but Zepbound might be if prescribed for weight loss and you meet BMI requirements.


Side Effects


Both can cause:

  • Nausea

  • Bloating

  • Constipation

  • Fatigue

  • Rare: vomiting or gallbladder issues

Zepbound’s dual-action may increase early side effects, but it often leads to greater long-term metabolic benefit.


Who Should Consider Zepbound?


✅ Ideal if you:

  • Have a BMI ≥30 or ≥27 with a health condition

  • Are looking for maximum fat loss

  • Do not have diabetes

  • Have failed other weight loss methods

Who Should Consider Ozempic?


✅ Ideal if you:

  • Have Type 2 diabetes

  • Want modest weight loss with blood sugar control

  • Have insurance that covers diabetes meds

  • Prefer a single-hormone approach

📌 Related: Ozempic vs Wegovy – What’s the Difference?


Can You Switch Between the Two?


Yes—under a doctor’s supervision, many people switch:

  • From Ozempic to Zepbound for greater fat loss

  • From Zepbound to Ozempic for cost, insurance, or tolerability reasons

📌 Always consult your healthcare provider before switching medications.


Final Thoughts


Zepbound and Ozempic are not the same—but both are powerful tools for weight loss depending on your medical history and goals.


✔️ Zepbound = Better for FDA-approved, aggressive fat loss
 ✔️ Ozempic = Great for diabetes control with some weight loss
 ✔️ Talk to your doctor to determine the right fit for you


📌 Visit our Zepbound vs Ozempic Comparison  for downloadable charts, Q&A, and insurance tips.