Which GLP-1
Should I Take?
The wrong medication can waste time, money, and motivation. The right one can make weight loss feel much more realistic.
The side-by-side comparison
Here is a clear breakdown of the main GLP-1 medications available. The right choice depends on your health profile, insurance, and goals.
Factor | Mounjaro | Zepbound | Tirzepatide (Compounded) | Ozempic | Wegovy | Semaglutide (Compounded) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main Ingredient | Tirzepatide | Tirzepatide | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide | Semaglutide | Semaglutide |
| Designed For | Type 2 Diabetes + Weight loss | Weight Loss | Weight Loss (compounded) | Type 2 Diabetes + Cardiovascular Risk | Weight Loss, Cardiovascular Risk | Weight Loss (compounded) |
| Expected Weight Loss | Helps with significant weight loss alongside blood sugar control | Supports weight loss, often more than 15% of body weight | Weight loss varies based on individual and dosage | Helps with weight loss in Type 2 Diabetes, around 7-14 lbs on average | Helps with weight loss, average of 15% body weight in clinical trials | Varies based on dose and personal factors |
| How it Works | Targets two hormones (GIP + GLP-1) that regulate blood sugar and hunger | Targets two hormones (GIP + GLP-1) that help manage blood sugar and reduce hunger | Targets two hormones (GIP + GLP-1) to control hunger and improve blood sugar | Works with GLP-1 to control blood sugar and appetite | Works with GLP-1 to manage appetite and reduce weight | Works with GLP-1 to help control hunger and support weight management |
| Dosing Frequency | Weekly | Weekly | Weekly | Weekly | Weekly | Weekly |
| Out-of-Pocket Cost | $900-$1,200/month | $550-$850/month | $200-$450/month (est.) | $850-$1,200/month | $199-$349/month (starter pricing, then $349) | Varies |
| Insurance Coverage Likelihood | High (with Type 2 Diabetes diagnosis) | High (with obesity diagnosis) | Low (compounded) | High (with Type 2 Diabetes diagnosis | High (with obesity diagnosis) | Low (compounded) |
| Best For | People with Type 2 Diabetes seeking weight loss support | Adults with obesity looking for effective weight loss | Patients seeking compounded options for tailored treatment | People with Type 2 Diabetes and those managing cardiovascular risk | Adults looking for long-term weight loss and heart health benefits | Those seeking a compounded semaglutide option for weight management |
A closer look at each option
Here is what I actually tell clients when they ask me which one to choose.
Most Recommended
Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound, which work to manage both blood sugar and appetite. Tirzepatide targets two hormones related to appetite, fullness, and blood sugar, which helps many people lose more weight compared with single‑hormone medications in clinical trials. If you're looking for flexibility, this option may be available through compounding pharmacies. It requires a prescription, and the quality depends on the pharmacy, so it's important to work with a trusted provider. This can be a great option for those who prefer a more personalized treatment plan and flexible payment options.
Mounjaro
Mounjaro is tirzepatide, a medication designed to help manage Type 2 diabetes and support weight loss. This medication helps regulate blood sugar levels and controls appetite. It's a once-weekly injection, making it easy to incorporate into your routine. If you have Type 2 diabetes and want a medication that supports both blood sugar control and weight management, Mounjaro can be a powerful option. Coverage may vary depending on your insurance plan.
Zepbound
Zepbound is the weight loss version of tirzepatide and works in the same way as Mounjaro but is approved specifically for weight loss. If you're focusing on losing weight and want a treatment that targets both appetite and blood sugar, Zepbound is a great choice. In clinical studies, 85% to 91% of people lost at least 5% of their body weight while on this medication, and many lost more. It’s a once-weekly injection, making it simple and effective for long-term weight management. If weight loss is your main goal, Zepbound is often the top choice to explore first.
Ozempic
Ozempic is semaglutide, a medication primarily used to treat Type 2 diabetes. It’s also approved to lower the risk of heart disease for certain adults with Type 2 diabetes. While Ozempic isn’t officially approved for weight loss, many people have experienced weight loss benefits. In clinical trials, people lost between 7 to 14 pounds on average, with some seeing greater results. It’s available as a once-weekly injection, making it an accessible option for those with Type 2 diabetes looking to manage both blood sugar and weight.
Wegovy
Wegovy is semaglutide, a medication made specifically for weight loss. It is designed to help adults who are overweight or have obesity lose weight and keep it off. In clinical studies, people on Wegovy lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight over 68 weeks. Wegovy is available as a once-weekly injection, and there is also a daily tablet option. If you're looking for a proven treatment for weight loss and want a medication that can help you achieve long-term success, Wegovy might be the right choice.
Semaglutide
Semaglutide is the same active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, and it’s sometimes available through compounding pharmacies. If you’re considering an option outside of the brand-name products, semaglutide may be available in a customized form. This can offer flexibility if you're looking for a different treatment plan. However, it’s important to understand that the quality of compounded medications can vary, as they are not FDA-regulated like the brand-name versions. Always work with your provider to make sure this is the right choice for you. Compounded semaglutide requires a prescription and should be used with careful provider guidance.
Have a question?
Still have questions before you decide? Submit your question below.

