Ozempic (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide) are weekly injections that many believe are the same, however, they work in slightly different ways. Ozempic is a medication approved for Type 2 Diabetes and off-label used for weight loss, while Zepbound is approved specifically for weight loss and chronic obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Understanding both and how they differ can help you make the most informed decision about which option is best for you.
What Is Ozempic?
Ozembic is an FDA-approved medication used to treat adults with type 2 diabetes. It can be used on its own in patients who are unable to take Metformin (a first-line diabetes medication), or is sometimes combined with other diabetic medications.
It contains the active ingredient semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, to control blood sugar levels, slow gastric emptying, and reduce food or sugar cravings [1].
Is It Effective? Clinical Evidence for Ozempic
Ozempic is an FDA-approved, clinically supported medical treatment for type 2 diabetes, and several studies support its effects on weight loss and cardiovascular health [2][3]:
- In multiple clinical trials, Ozempic helped users lose about 10-15% of their body weight over 68-72 weeks.
- Real-world data from healthcare centers confirm Ozempic’s effectiveness but show that actual weight loss can vary depending on factors such as adherence to treatment and lifestyle.
- Ozempic has been found in a major trial to lower the risk of heart-related problems for people with type 2 diabetes.
Side Effects of Ozempic
Common side effects reported by patients taking Ozempic include:
- Indigestion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Dizziness, headache, migraines
- Physical and mental exhaustion
- More serious, rare, and long-term risks can include pancreatitis, kidney problems, and gallbladder issues
What is Zepbound?
Zepbound is an injectable medication that activates the GIP and GLP-1 receptors and comes in 5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg. GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) are receptors for incretin hormones found in pancreatic cells and neurons in the brain. These help regulate blood sugar, appetite, and insulin response. They can slow down how quickly food leaves the stomach and help people feel fuller for longer after eating.
The active ingredient in Zepbound is Tirzepatide, which is also sold under the brand name Mounjaro as a treatment for type 2 diabetes. However, Zepbound is specifically approved for weight management [4].
It is not a magic cure for weight loss, but when used together with a healthy diet and physical activity, it has shown successful results in helping people lose and keep off weight.
Is It Effective? Clinical Evidence for Zepbound
- A large clinical trial showed that over two-thirds of participants lost at least 10% of their body weight in about 72 weeks, with nearly one-third losing 20% or more [5].
- Another study on Zepbound involving people with type 2 diabetes found that more than 80% of participants on higher doses lost at least 5% of their weight, along with significant improvements in blood sugar control [7].
- When compared to another popular weight loss drug, Wegovy, Zepbound showed greater weight loss results at one year, and more patients achieved long-term reductions in weight [6].
Side Effects of Zepbound
Common side effects reported by individuals on Zepbound are similar to those on Ozempic and include:
- Nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Redness or soreness at the injection site
- Long-term risks are similar to those of Ozempic and other GLP-1s.
5 Key Differences Between Ozempic and Zepbound
- Separate Clinical Uses
Ozempic and Zepbound are approved for different conditions. Zepbound is approved for weight loss and severe sleep apnea (OSA) in overweight or obese adults. Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes.
- Different Ingredients and Mechanisms of Action
Tirzepatide is the main ingredient in Zepbound, also available under the brand name Mounjaro. Semaglutide is the main ingredient in Ozempic, and is also available as a higher-dose version for weight loss called Wegovy.
They both work by mimicking natural effects of gut hormones known as incretins, involved in digestion, blood glucose, and appetite. But while Ozempic mimics one kind of incretin (GLP-1), Zepbound mimics two (GLP-1 and GIP).
- Weight Loss Results
Over a 40-week period, patients received the highest tirzepatide dose (15 mg) and lost an average of 25 lbs. In patients who were given the highest dose of Ozempic (1 mg) they lost an average of 12.5 lbs [6].
- Injection Pens
The injection pens for each of these drugs work differently. Zepbound comes in a prefilled, single-use pen with one dose and should be thrown away after use. Ozempic pens contain multiple doses and often require refrigeration (36°F to 46°F).
The Zepbound pen already comes with a needle attached, and you don’t need to replace this since it’s for single use. Ozempic pens require you to attach a fresh needle for each dose.
- Insurance Coverage
Ozempic is usually covered by insurance as a treatment for type 2 diabetes; however, your insurance company may require prior authorization. In some cases, you may need to try other diabetes medications first.
Zepbound is usually not covered by insurance, as many plans do not cover weight loss medications, unless used for a related health condition such as chronic sleep apnea or cardiovascular problems caused by obesity.
Ozempic vs Zepbound: A Quick View
| Weight Loss Injection | Ozempic | Zepbound |
| Active Ingredient | Semaglutide (GLP-1 agonist) | Tirzepatide (GLP1 + GLP2 agonist) |
| FDA Approval | Yes for type 2 diabetes | Yes, for weight loss and obstructive sleep apnea |
| Average Weight Loss | Around 15% body weight in clinical trials | Up to 21% of body weight in clinical trials |
| Covered By Insurance | Yes, Ozempic is covered by most insurance plans for type 2 diabetes | Typically, no, as weight loss-specific drugs are not covered by insurance. If you have OSA check with your provider |
FAQs
Can you use Zepbound and Ozempic together?
No, you should not combine Zepbound and Ozempic. They contain similar but distinct active ingredients that target incretin hormones. Taking both could increase the risk of serious side effects.
Can you switch from Ozempic to Zepbound?
Yes, switching from Ozempic to Zepbound is possible and often done to achieve greater weight loss or address additional metabolic needs, but it should always be guided by your healthcare provider for safe dose adjustments and monitoring.
Why am I not seeing results with GLP-1s?
Lack of results with GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Zepbound can be due to factors like insufficient dosage, inconsistent use, and not making necessary lifestyle changes, such as diet or exercise. It’s important before starting any weight loss drug to address individual metabolic differences or underlying health conditions that could be making it hard to lose weight.
Weight loss drugs like Zepbound are most effective when combined with dietary changes and exercise to support long-term physical health.
Does Zepbound have worse side effects than Ozempic?
Zepbound and Ozempic share similar gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea and diarrhea. Because Zepbound is a dual agonist, some people may experience more intense or frequent side effects. However, severity varies by individual and dosing, so close medical supervision is important to manage any adverse effects.
Personalized Weight Management Support Rooted in Functional Medicine at Harper Clinic, Utah
Harper Clinic Utah provides targeted functional medicine treatments, GLP1s, and personalized nutrition plans to those on their weight loss journey or struggling with metabolic health problems. Our weight loss management services and tirzepatide treatment help those with obesity and type 2 diabetes regulate blood sugar, manage weight, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Nutrition planning emphasizes low-glycemic, nutrient-dense foods to stabilize blood sugar and reduce insulin spikes, alongside personalized support to address weight challenges, cravings, digestive symptoms, and overall wellness.
Contact our consultation team for holistic strategies that nourish your body and mind for long-term weight management.
Sources
[1] Ozempic. What is Ozempic?
[2] Umashanker, D. et al. (2024). Semaglutide 2.4 mg clinical outcomes in patients with obesity or overweight in a real-world setting: A 6-month retrospective study in the United States (SCOPE). Obesity science & practice, 10(1), e737.
[3] Lincoff, M. et al. 2023. Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Obesity without Diabetes. New England Journal of Medicine.
[4] Kerwin, K. 2023. What is Zepbound? Does this new weight loss drug work better than Wegovy and Ozempic? Will it cut costs? UC Health.
[5] The Lancet. 2025. This new semaglutide dose helped nearly half of patients lose 20% body weight.
[6] Aronne, L. et al. 2025. Tirzepatide as Compared with Semaglutide for the Treatment of Obesity. New England Journal of Medicine.
[7] Murphy, M. (2024). Continued Treatment With Tirzepatide for Maintenance of Weight Reduction in Adults With Obesity: The SURMOUNT-4 Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA, 331(1), 38–48.