Zepbound and Wegovy are both effective medications, but they differ in their results and side effects. Choosing between them should involve a healthcare provider’s assessment of individual health needs and tolerance to these side effects.
What is Zepbound?
Zepbound is the brand name for the drug tirzepatide. Mounjaro is the name of the medication when it’s used to treat certain conditions. Both Zepbound and Mounjaro are brand names for the generic drug, tirzepatide.
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy (semaglutide) is a prescription drug. Wegovy comes as a liquid solution in a prefilled, single-dose pen. It’s given as an injection under the skin.
As you consider Zepbound, it’s also helpful to compare its performance and suitability with other similar treatments. For a comprehensive comparison of how it measures up against another leading medications, check out our analysis of Mounjaro vs Wegovy, which might help you make a more informed decision.
What is the Difference Between Zepbound and Wegovy?
The main difference between Zepbound and Wegovy lies in their mechanisms of action and target pathways. Choosing between the two should be based on individual health needs and consultation with a healthcare provider.
Zepbound vs. Wegovy Results
Zepbound and Wegovy are currently being compared in a head-to-head clinical trial for weight loss in people without diabetes, expected to conclude in late 2024. Preliminary individual trials suggest Zepbound may lead to greater weight loss than Wegovy.
In a 72-week trial, participants on the highest Zepbound dose (15 mg) lost nearly 21% of their body weight, with almost 60% losing 20% or more. In comparison, a 68-week trial of Wegovy (2.4 mg) showed an average weight loss of nearly 15%, with about half of the participants losing 15% or more.
An observational study over a year found that tirzepatide users lost more weight than those on semaglutide, though specific doses weren’t clear. Additionally, a phase 3 trial is studying a 7.2 mg weekly dose of Wegovy, which may offer greater weight loss than the current 2.4 mg dose.
Wegovy and Zepbound Side Effects
Stomach side effects are common from both Zepbound and Wegovy, including nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
In clinical studies of Zepbound, the most common side effects reported in adults were:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Indigestion
Common side effects reported by adults who took 2.4 mg of Wegovy during clinical trials include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
While comparing the side effects of Zepbound and Wegovy, you may also be interested in how other medications stack up. Explore the differences and similarities in side effects between Wegovy and another popular medication with our detailed comparison on Contrave vs Wegovy, providing further insight into choosing the right treatment for your needs.
Cost of Zepbound vs. Wegovy
The list price for a 28-day supply of Zepbound is CAD $1,060, totaling CAD $13,800 per year without insurance or discounts. This is about 20% less than the $1,350 monthly list price for Wegovy (semaglutide), according to Eli Lilly.
The list price of Wegovy is CAD $550 or CAD $4,700 per year. This price changes depending on the patient’s insurance coverage and other factors.
Wegovy vs. Zepbound Dosage Schedules
When starting Zepbound or Wegovy, your dosage is slowly raised on 4-week intervals to help manage side effects and find the right dose. But each medication’s dosage schedule looks a bit different. For example, it may take longer to reach your target Wegovy dose compared with Zepbound.
Month 1 | Month 2 | Month 3 | Month 4 | Month 5+ | |
Wegovy | 0.25 mg/week | 0.5 mg/week | 1 mg/week | 1.7 mg/week | 2.4 mg/week. |
Zepbound | 2.5 mg/week | 5 mg/week | 5 mg/week | 5 mg/week | 5 mg/week (up to 15 mg with increasing increments of 2.5 mg) |
*Source:
Can You Take Zepbound and Wegovy Together?
No. It’s not recommended to take both Zepbound and Wegovy. You’ll typically be prescribed one or the other — but not both at the same time.
If your prescribed dose isn’t working well enough for you, talk to your healthcare team. In some cases, they may be able to raise it or switch you to a different medication.
Understanding the different treatment option is crucial for making the best choice for your health. For more insights on how Wegovy compares to other medications in the same category, delve into our detailed discussion on Rybelsus vs Wegovy, which could aid in evaluating other potential options.
Key Takeaways
- Effectiveness and Trials: Zepbound may lead to better results than Wegovy based on preliminary trials.
- Side Effects: Both medications commonly cause stomach-related side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and stomach pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Switch from Wegovy to Zepbound?
Yes. If you need more help managing your weight, it’s possible to switch from Wegovy to Zepbound. In this case, your prescriber may have you start with a lower Zepbound dose and slowly work your way up. This gives your body time to adjust to Zepbound and find the right dose for you.
What is Wegovy Called in Canada?
Wegovy is the brand name for a medicine called semaglutide, the same as Novo Nordisks’s blockbuster drug Ozempic.
Who is a Good Candidate for Zepbound?
Zepbound may be prescribed if you have a BMI of 30 or higher or 27 or higher with certain weight-related conditions, and you have not been successful in losing weight or maintaining weight loss with lifestyle changes alone.
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