{"id":631747,"date":"2025-03-24T15:54:04","date_gmt":"2025-03-24T19:54:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=631747"},"modified":"2025-03-24T15:54:04","modified_gmt":"2025-03-24T19:54:04","slug":"zepbound-vs-ozempic","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/zepbound-vs-ozempic\/","title":{"rendered":"Zepbound vs. Ozempic: Differences & similarities explained"},"content":{"rendered":"

Zepbound<\/span><\/a> (tirzepatide) and <\/span>Ozempic<\/span><\/a> (semaglutide) are two brand-name medications that are commonly used for weight loss. Zepbound is classified as a <\/span>glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GIP\/GLP-1 receptor agonist)<\/span>, while Ozempic is classified as a <\/span>GLP-1 receptor agonist<\/span><\/a>. For weight loss, they work by slowing gastric emptying and increasing satiety, which helps decrease cravings and regulate food intake. While these medicines share some similarities, they have many differences as well.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Zepbound vs. Ozempic: Key differences<\/span><\/h2>\n

Zepbound<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>Ozempic<\/span><\/a> are typically used as long-term treatments, and both drugs are FDA approved for use in adults only. Both drugs are available in brand name with no generic available. Zepbound is made by Eli Lilly and Company and contains the active ingredient tirzepatide, while Ozempic is made by Novo Nordisk and contains the active ingredient semaglutide. <\/span>Although they work in a similar way, Zepbound targets an additional pathway, which may enhance weight loss.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
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Compare key differences<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n

<\/td>\nZepbound<\/b><\/td>\nOzempic<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Drug class<\/b><\/td>\nGIP\/GLP-1 receptor agonist<\/span><\/td>\nGLP-1 receptor agonist<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand\/generic status<\/b><\/td>\nBrand<\/span><\/td>\nBrand<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the generic name?<\/b><\/td>\nThe active ingredient is tirzepatide, but there is no generic available.<\/span><\/td>\nThe active ingredient is semaglutide, but there is no generic available.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What form(s) does the drug come in?<\/b><\/td>\nInjection<\/span><\/td>\nInjection<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the standard dosage?<\/b><\/td>\nStarting dose<\/span><\/a> is 2.5 mg injected subcutaneously every week. The healthcare provider will gradually increase the dose to a maximum of 15 mg weekly.\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nStarting dose<\/span><\/a> is 0.25 mg injected subcutaneously every week. The healthcare provider will gradually increase the dose to a maximum of 2 mg weekly.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
How long is the typical treatment?<\/b><\/td>\nLong-term\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nLong-term<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Who typically uses the medication?<\/b><\/td>\nAdults\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nAdults\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

Zepbound vs. Ozempic: Conditions treated<\/span><\/h2>\n

Zepbound is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for weight loss and long-term weight management in adults with <\/span>obesity<\/span><\/a> or who are overweight with at least one weight-related health condition, such as <\/span>high blood pressure<\/span><\/a> or <\/span>high cholesterol<\/span><\/a>. Zepbound is also FDA approved to treat moderate to severe <\/span>obstructive sleep apnea<\/span><\/a> in adults with obesity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ozempic is FDA approved to manage blood sugar levels in adults with <\/span>Type 2 diabetes<\/span><\/a>. It is also used to lower the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death) in adults with Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Ozempic is also FDA approved in adults with Type 2 diabetes and <\/span>chronic kidney disease<\/span><\/a>. In this population, it can help reduce the risk of further kidney damage and cardiovascular death. Ozempic is not FDA pproved for weight loss, but it is frequently prescribed <\/span>off-label<\/span><\/a> (for a non-FDA-approved use) for weight loss. The active ingredient in Ozempic, semaglutide, is also found in <\/span>Wegovy<\/span><\/a>, which is FDA approved for weight loss and long-term weight management.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Both Zepbound and Ozempic are typically recommended in combination with lifestyle changes, including a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
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Compare conditions treated<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n

Condition<\/b><\/td>\nZepbound<\/b><\/td>\nOzempic<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Weight loss and weight management<\/b><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nOff-label\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Obstructive sleep apnea\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nNo\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Type 2 diabetes\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\nNo\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cardiovascular risk reduction\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\nNo\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Kidney disease\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\nNo\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

Is Zepbound better than Ozempic?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Either drug can be very effective\u2014both drugs have gone through extensive clinical trials to prove safety and efficacy. Until recently, there was little data comparing the drugs directly. In December 2024, <\/span>the results of the SURMOUNT-5 study<\/span><\/a> comparing Zepbound and Wegovy were published. (Wegovy contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic, which is called semaglutide.) In this 72-week study, researchers found that people who used Zepbound lost 20.2% of body weight, compared to 13.7% in people who used Wegovy. It’s important to note that the higher doses of Wegovy are slightly higher than the highest doses of Ozempic. In this study, participants were gradually increased to doses of 1.7 or 2.4 mg of Wegovy, while the maximum dose of Ozempic is 2 mg.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Although Zepbound showed better results, this does not necessarily mean it is the best choice for everyone. Consult your healthcare provider for more information and medical advice about Zepbound and Ozempic. The best drug for you can only be determined by your healthcare provider, who can take many individual factors into consideration.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Zepbound vs. Ozempic: Insurance coverage and cost comparison<\/span><\/h2>\n

Without insurance, a one-month supply of Zepbound can cost about $1,496. However, a free <\/span>SingleCare coupon<\/span><\/a> can bring the price down to as low as $947 per month.<\/span><\/p>\n

The out-of-pocket price for a one-month supply of Ozempic is about $1,370. However, a free <\/span>SingleCare coupon<\/span><\/a> can bring the price down to as low as $811 per month.<\/span><\/p>\n

Insurance coverage for Zepbound and Ozempic varies by plan. The best way to find out if your insurance company provides coverage for these drugs is to check with your insurance provider for the most up-to-date pricing estimates and coverage information. You can also check the manufacturers\u2019 websites for insurance look-up tools and additional savings options.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

These drugs may require <\/span>prior authorization<\/span><\/a>, and in some cases, they may or may not be covered depending on what you are using the drug for. For example, an insurance company may cover Ozempic for Type 2 diabetes, but not for weight loss. Similarly, an insurance plan that does not cover weight loss medicine may cover Zepbound for obstructive sleep apnea but not for weight loss.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Your plan provider, whether commercial or through Medicare, can give you more information on your benefits for these drugs.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
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Compare cost and coverage<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n

<\/td>\nZepbound<\/b><\/td>\nOzempic<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by insurance?<\/b><\/td>\nVaries\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nVaries\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by Medicare Part D?<\/b><\/td>\nVaries\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nVaries\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Quantity<\/b><\/td>\n1 box of 4 single-use pens<\/span><\/td>\n1 box of 1 multiple-use injection pen<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typical Medicare copay<\/b><\/td>\nVaries<\/span><\/td>\nVaries<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
SingleCare cost<\/b><\/td>\n$946 and up<\/span><\/td>\n$811 and up<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

Zepbound vs. Ozempic side effects<\/span><\/h2>\n

The most common side effects of both drugs are gastrointestinal\u2014nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea or constipation. The table below shows some of the more common side effects of both drugs, with the frequency varying by dose. While taking Zepbound or Ozempic, tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If you have symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, get emergency medical help right away.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
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Compare side effects<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n

<\/td>\nZepbound<\/b><\/td>\nOzempic<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Side effect<\/b><\/td>\nApplicable?<\/b><\/td>\nFrequency<\/b><\/td>\nApplicable?<\/b><\/td>\nFrequency<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nausea\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n25%\u201329%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n16%\u201320%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Vomiting\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n8%\u201313%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n5%\u20139%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Diarrhea\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n19%\u201323%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n8%\u20139%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Stomach pain\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n9%\u201310%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n5%\u20137%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Constipation\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n11%\u201317%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n3%\u20135%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Indigestion\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n9%\u201310%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n3%\u20134%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Injection site reactions\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n6%\u20138%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n0.2%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Fatigue\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n5%\u20137%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n>0.4%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Hair loss<\/b><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n4%\u20135%<\/span><\/td>\nNo\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Bloating\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n3%\u20134%<\/span><\/td>\nNo\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Allergic reactions\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n5%<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n% not reported<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
Source: <\/span>Zepbound<\/span><\/a> (DailyMed), <\/span>Ozempic<\/span><\/a> (DailyMed)<\/span><\/h5>\n

Zepbound and Ozempic drug interactions<\/span><\/h2>\n

Before you take Zepbound or Ozempic, tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you take. This includes prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements. Because both Zepbound and Ozempic lower blood sugar, there is a risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) when taken with insulin or certain diabetes medications. Your healthcare provider may recommend close monitoring and a possible dose adjustment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

While both drugs affect stomach emptying, there is a potential to affect how medicines are absorbed if taken around the same time. Your healthcare provider can advise you if you need to make any adjustments to your schedule or regimen. This may affect drugs that require careful monitoring, such as the blood thinner <\/span>warfarin<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The prescribing information for Zepbound (but not Ozempic) notes that if you are taking a <\/span>birth control pill<\/span><\/a>, you will need to switch to a non-oral method of birth control\u2014or add a barrier method of birth control, such as a condom\u2014for four weeks after starting Zepbound and for four weeks after each dose increase. Consult your healthcare provider for more information and medical advice about birth control.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Compare drug interactions<\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Drug<\/b><\/td>\nDrug Class<\/b><\/td>\nInteracts with Zepbound?<\/b><\/td>\nInteracts with Ozempic?<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Lantus\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n

Levemir<\/b><\/p>\n

Tresiba<\/b><\/td>\n

Insulin<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Glimepiride<\/b><\/p>\n

Glipizide<\/b><\/p>\n

Glyburide<\/b><\/td>\n

Sulfonylureas\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Oral medications<\/b><\/td>\nOral medications<\/span><\/td>\nSee above\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nSee above<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

Zepbound and Ozempic drug warnings<\/span><\/h2>\n

Before beginning your weight loss journey with Zepbound or Ozempic, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions and medical and family history.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Zepbound and Ozempic share many of the same warnings. Both drugs have a <\/span>black box warning<\/span><\/a>, the most serious warning required by the FDA. In animal studies, these drugs have caused thyroid tumors. It is not known whether Zepbound or Ozempic can cause cancer in humans. However, people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), and people with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should never take Zepbound or Ozempic. Also, anyone who takes Zepbound or Ozempic should be alert to symptoms of thyroid cancer, such as a lump in the neck, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or hoarseness.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Other possible serious side effects of both drugs are listed below, which require immediate or urgent medical attention. You can discuss with your healthcare provider what symptoms to look for and what to do if you experience them:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n