Which GLP-1
Should I Take?

If you’ve tried everything and nothing has worked, GLP-1 medications may finally make weight loss feel more realistic. They work by changing hunger, fullness, and appetite signals. But not every option fits the same situation. This page will help you understand which GLP-1 may make the most sense for you.

The side-by-side comparison

A quick look at all six options so you can see how they stack up before diving deeper.


Factor

Mounjaro

Zepbound

Tirzepatide (Compounded)

Ozempic

Wegovy

Semaglutide (Compounded)
Main IngredientTirzepatideTirzepatideTirzepatideSemaglutideSemaglutideSemaglutide
Approved ForType 2 Diabetes + Weight lossWeight loss + sleep apnea in adults with obesityProvider-guided weight loss useType 2 diabetes + heart risk reduction (and kidney benefit for some)Weight loss + heart risk reduction in certain adultsProvider-guided weight loss use
Expected Weight LossMany people lose weight, results varyHigh in studies, often 15% to 20%+Varies by dose and individualModerate, about 7 to 14 lbs in studiesHigh, about 15% body weight in studiesVaries by dose and individual
Monthly Cost~$1,080 without insurance, as low as $25 with eligible insurance~$1,086 list price, from ~$299 self-pay, as low as $25 with eligible insurance~$299–$449~$935–$1,000 without insurance, as low as $25 with eligible insurance~$1,349 list price, from ~$199 direct, as low as $25 with eligible insurance~$200–$500
Best ForPeople with type 2 diabetes who also want weight supportPeople focused mainly on weight loss who want the strongest optionPeople who want lower-cost tirzepatide with provider guidancePeople with type 2 diabetes who want blood sugar and heart supportPeople focused on long-term weight loss with strong study resultsPeople looking for a lower-cost semaglutide option with provider guidance

Not sure where to start? If your main goal is weight loss, Zepbound or tirzepatide are usually the first options to look at. If you have type 2 diabetes, Mounjaro or Ozempic may make more sense. If cost matters most, tirzepatide or semaglutide may be worth discussing.

A closer look at each option

Here is how I would explain each medication to someone who is new to GLP-1s and wants a clear answer.

Please note: Ratings are based on clinical data and client outcomes. Individual results vary. Always work with a provider before starting.

Most Recommended

Tirzepatide

If you are not sure where to start, this is usually the first option to consider. Tirzepatide is the medication used in Mounjaro and Zepbound. It works on two body signals that affect hunger, fullness, and blood sugar. Many people choose this option for strong results and lower cost. The key is working with a provider who can guide you properly.

Mounjaro and Zepbound both use tirzepatide. The difference is how they are prescribed and what they are approved for.

Many people choose this option because it costs less. The key is working with a provider who can guide dosing and monitor your progress.


Yossi's Rating

Results
Affordability
Access

Safety

★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★☆
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Mounjaro

Mounjaro is tirzepatide, used for type 2 diabetes. It helps with blood sugar, and many people also lose weight while taking it. If you have type 2 diabetes and want help with both blood sugar and weight, this may be one of the first options to ask about.


Yossi's Rating

Results
Affordability
Access

Safety

★★★★★
★★★☆☆
★★★★☆
★★★★★

Zepbound

Zepbound is tirzepatide made for weight loss. It helps lower appetite and makes it easier to feel full with less food. If your main goal is weight loss and you want one of the strongest studied options, Zepbound is worth discussing.


Yossi's Rating

Results
Affordability
Access

Safety

★★★★★
★★★☆☆
★★★★☆
★★★★★

Ozempic

Ozempic is semaglutide, used for type 2 diabetes. It helps with blood sugar, and many people also lose weight while taking it. It is not the weight-loss version of semaglutide, but it may be a practical option if you have type 2 diabetes.


Yossi's Rating

Results
Affordability
Access

Safety

★★★☆☆
★★☆☆☆
★★★★☆
★★★★★

Wegovy 

Wegovy is semaglutide made for weight loss. It helps lower appetite and makes it easier to stay satisfied with smaller portions. If you want the semaglutide option focused on weight loss, Wegovy is the main one to ask about.


Yossi's Rating

Results
Affordability
Access

Safety

★★★★☆
★★★☆☆
★★★★☆
★★★★★

Semaglutide

Semaglutide is the medication used in Ozempic and Wegovy. Some providers offer it through licensed compounding pharmacies for people who want a lower-cost option. It still requires a prescription and provider guidance. Semaglutide is also available as a daily pill called Rybelsus, which is approved for type 2 diabetes.

Many people choose this option because it costs less. The key is working with a provider who can guide dosing and monitor your progress.


Yossi's Rating

Results
Affordability
Access

Safety

★★★★☆
★★★★☆
★★★☆☆
★★★★☆

Still have questions?

Not sure which one fits you?

Submit a question or book an appointment. We will look at your goals, budget, and health history together.