Introduction

If you’re considering a GLP-1 medication for weight loss, you’ve likely heard of Zepbound, Wegovy, and Ozempic. But with so many names floating around—and some containing the same active ingredient—it’s easy to get confused.

In this blog, we’ll break down the differences and similarities between Zepbound vs Wegovy vs Ozempic to help you understand which one is right for your health goals.

Quick Snapshot

Feature	Zepbound	Wegovy	Ozempic
Active Ingredient	Tirzepatide	Semaglutide (2.4 mg)	Semaglutide (0.5–2 mg)
Hormones Targeted	GLP-1 + GIP	GLP-1 only	GLP-1 only
FDA Approval For	Obesity (2023)	Obesity (2021)	Type 2 Diabetes (2017)
Primary Use	Weight loss	Weight loss	Blood sugar control
Weight Loss (Avg.)	15–22.5%	10–16%	10–15% (off-label for weight)
Format	Weekly injection	Weekly injection	Weekly injection

All three are once-weekly injectables, but only Zepbound and Wegovy are FDA-approved specifically for weight loss.

Zepbound: Dual-Hormone Weight Loss Power

• Activates both GLP-1 and GIP, mimicking natural gut hormones
• Leads to the greatest weight loss in clinical studies
• Helps regulate blood sugar, suppress appetite, and increase fat burning
• Approved for chronic weight management

Source: SURMOUNT-1 Trial

Zepbound is currently the most effective GLP-1-based medication on the market.

Wegovy: High-Dose Semaglutide for Weight Loss

• Contains semaglutide 2.4 mg, a higher dose than Ozempic
• FDA-approved for obesity and overweight
• Suppresses appetite, slows digestion, and improves insulin sensitivity
• Designed specifically for weight loss in non-diabetics

Source: STEP-1 Trial

If you’ve used Ozempic for diabetes or off-label weight loss, Wegovy is the next logical step.

Ozempic: Diabetes Medication Used Off-Label for Weight Loss

• Originally created to treat Type 2 diabetes
• Contains lower doses of semaglutide than Wegovy
• Suppresses appetite but is not approved for weight loss
• Often prescribed off-label for people who can’t access Wegovy

Source: Ozempic Prescribing Info (FDA)

Many people start on Ozempic while waiting for insurance approval for Wegovy or Zepbound.

Weight Loss Results Compared

Medication	Avg. Body Weight Loss	Study Duration
Zepbound	Up to 22.5%	72 weeks
Wegovy	14.9%	68 weeks
Ozempic	10–15% (off-label)	68+ weeks

Zepbound leads the pack, especially for non-diabetics seeking major fat loss.

Insurance, Cost, and Access

Factor	Zepbound	Wegovy	Ozempic
FDA Weight Loss Approved	Yes	Yes	No
Insurance Coverage	With BMI requirements	With BMI requirements	Often denied for weight loss
Retail Cost	~$1,060/month	~$1,350/month	~$900–$1,200/month
Savings Program	Zepbound	Wegovy	Ozempic

Wegovy and Zepbound are usually covered with prior authorization. Ozempic is often rejected for non-diabetic use.

Final Thoughts

Each medication has its strengths—but here’s how to choose:

Choose Zepbound if you want maximum weight loss, especially if you’re dealing with insulin resistance or PCOS.

Choose Wegovy if you want FDA-approved semaglutide for weight loss, and prefer a single-hormone option.

Choose Ozempic if you need blood sugar control or want a stepping stone to Wegovy while waiting for approval.

Visit our GLP-1 Med Comparison Hub to download our side-by-side chart, check current pricing, and connect with a telehealth provider.