Introduction

If you’re exploring prescription medications to lose weight, two of the most powerful options available today are Zepbound and Wegovy. Both are weekly injections, both are FDA-approved for weight loss, and both belong to the GLP-1 medication class.

But how do they compare in terms of weight loss, side effects, cost, and coverage?

This guide breaks down Zepbound vs Wegovy so you can confidently choose the right treatment for your goals.

Snapshot Comparison

Feature	Zepbound	Wegovy
Active Ingredient	Tirzepatide	Semaglutide
Hormones Targeted	GLP-1 + GIP	GLP-1 only
FDA Approval	2023 (weight loss)	2021 (weight loss)
Injection Frequency	Weekly	Weekly
Avg. Weight Loss	15–22.5%	10–16%

Both are intended for adults with BMI ≥30, or BMI ≥27 with weight-related conditions.

Clinical Trial Weight Loss Results

Zepbound (SURMOUNT-1 Trial)

• Up to 22.5% body weight loss
• More effective across all BMI ranges
• Significant improvement in blood sugar and inflammation

Wegovy (STEP-1 Trial)

• Average of 14.9% body weight loss
• Especially effective at the 2.4 mg dose
• Improves blood sugar, cholesterol, and appetite control

Sources:

• Zepbound – NEJM
• Wegovy – NEJM

Zepbound produces more weight loss, on average, than Wegovy.

Mechanism of Action

Hormonal Action	Zepbound	Wegovy
GLP-1	Appetite suppression, slows digestion	Same
GIP	Boosts insulin, fat burning	Not present

Zepbound’s dual incretin approach (GLP-1 + GIP) may enhance fat loss and metabolic benefits beyond what Wegovy offers.

Side Effects Comparison

Side Effect	Zepbound	Wegovy
Nausea	Common	Common
Constipation	Sometimes	Sometimes
Vomiting	Possible	Possible
Headache	Rare	Reported

Both require gradual dose escalation to minimize side effects.

Cost, Coverage, and Savings

Factor	Zepbound	Wegovy
U.S. Retail Price	~$1,060/month	~$1,350/month
Canadian Price	~$450–$500	~$599–$699
Savings Card	Zepbound	Wegovy
Insurance Coverage	With prior auth	With prior auth

Both are eligible for coverage with documentation and BMI qualifications.

Which Is Better for You?

Choose Zepbound if:

• You want maximum fat loss
• You’ve struggled with insulin resistance or PCOS
• You prefer the newest, most effective option
• You’re switching from Ozempic and want better results

Choose Wegovy if:

• You have good insurance coverage already in place
• You prefer a single-hormone medication with a strong track record
• You’ve already had success with Ozempic

Final Thoughts

Both Zepbound and Wegovy are excellent tools for long-term weight loss, but Zepbound generally leads to greater weight reduction, thanks to its dual-action formula.

Zepbound = stronger results, newer medication, slightly lower cost
Wegovy = proven success, widely prescribed, great for Ozempic switchers

Visit our GLP-1 Comparison Hub to download side-by-side charts, find savings cards, and connect with a licensed provider.