Zepbound vs. Ozempic: What’s the difference?

Zepbound (tirzepatide) and Ozempic (semaglutide) are incretin mimetics used for the treatment of various conditions including type 2 diabetes and weight management, but they differ in several key aspects.

Approved Uses

Ozempic is primarily used for type 2 diabetes and has additional approvals for reducing major cardiovascular events in adults with heart disease. Zepbound is used for chronic weight management in adults with certain conditions like high cholesterol or hypertension.

Mechanism of Action

Both drugs are similar in that they enhance insulin secretion and reduce blood sugar levels. Ozempic acts mainly as a GLP-1 receptor agonist, while Zepbound also incorporates GIP receptor agonism, potentially enhancing its effect on weight loss.

Administration

Both medications are administered as once-weekly subcutaneous injections, but their pens and dosing protocols differ. Zepbound is available in a prefilled, single-use pen, while Ozempic’s pen can be used for multiple doses.

Side Effects

Common side effects for both include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea. However, each has its unique risks, such as potential thyroid tumors associated with Ozempic and possible kidney issues with Zepbound.

Weight Loss Efficacy

Clinical trials suggest that Zepbound may offer superior weight loss benefits compared to Ozempic. Studies have shown significant weight reduction over placebo with both medications, but Zepbound’s impact appears more pronounced.

Potential for Switching

Switching from Ozempic to Zepbound might be considered if weight loss is a primary goal and the patient’s response to Ozempic is inadequate, though considerations about side effects and individual response are crucial.

Sources

  • Zepbound (tirzepatide) Injection, for subcutaneous use. Eli Lilly. Last updated 10/2024.
  • Ozempic (semaglutide) injection, for subcutaneous use. Novo Nordisk. Last updated 10/2023.
  • Wadden, T. A., et al. Effect of Subcutaneous Semaglutide vs Placebo as an Adjunct to Intensive Behavioral Therapy on Body Weight in Adults With Overweight or Obesity: The STEP 3 Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA, 325(14), 1403–1413.
  • Jastreboff, A. M., et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity. New England Journal of Medicine, 387(3), 205–216.
  • Rodriguez PJ, Goodwin Cartwright BM, Gratzl S, et al. Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide for Weight Loss in Adults With Overweight or Obesity. Journal of the American Medical Association Intern Med. 2024;184(9):1056–1064.