Generic name
semaglutide
tirzepatide
Manufacturer
Novo Nordisk
Eli Lilly
Drug class
GLP-1 receptor agonist
Dual GIP / GLP-1 receptor agonist
FDA approved
June 2021
May 2022
Indication
Chronic weight management (BMI ≥ 30, or ≥ 27 with comorbidity)
Type 2 diabetes (adults)
Dose schedule
Subcutaneous injection · Once weekly
Subcutaneous injection · Once weekly
Available doses
0.25 mg · 0.5 mg · 1 mg · 1.7 mg · 2.4 mg
2.5 mg · 5 mg · 7.5 mg · 10 mg · 12.5 mg · 15 mg
Mechanism
Wegovy is the same molecule as Ozempic — semaglutide — titrated to a higher 2.4 mg maintenance dose. It binds the GLP-1 receptor, augmenting glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing appetite via central nervous system pathways.
Tirzepatide is a first-in-class single molecule that activates both the GIP and GLP-1 receptors. The dual incretin action augments glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite — producing larger average HbA1c and weight reductions than GLP-1 agonism alone in head-to-head trials.
Common side effects
Nausea (44%), diarrhea (30%), vomiting (24%) — more frequent than Ozempic doses
Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation — mostly mild, ease after titration
Cost range
$0 – $1,500 / month depending on coverage and savings card
$25 – $1,200 / month depending on coverage
This comparison is for education only and is not medical advice. Wegovy and Mounjaro are prescription medicines with distinct FDA-approved indications. Whether either is appropriate for you — and at what dose — is a decision for a licensed clinician.