Ozempic vs Wegovy vs Mounjaro: How the Weight-Loss Drugs Compare in 2025

Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are among the most searched weight-loss and diabetes medications. Ozempic and Wegovy both contain semaglutide (a GLP-1 agonist); Mounjaro contains tirzepatide (a dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist). Ozempic and Mounjaro are approved for type 2 diabetes; Wegovy is approved for weight loss. In 2025, the SURMOUNT-5 trial compared them at maximum doses over 72 weeks: participants on tirzepatide lost an average of 20.2% of body weight versus 13.7% on semaglutide. Nearly twice as many tirzepatide users achieved at least 25% weight loss; waist circumference dropped more with tirzepatide (18.4 cm vs 13.0 cm). SingleCare, WebMD, Medscape, and the BMJ have all published comparisons; choice still depends on your condition, insurance, and tolerance.

Background: GLP-1s and Dual Agonists

GLP-1 receptor agonists improve blood sugar and reduce appetite; they were first used for diabetes, then approved for obesity at higher doses (e.g., Wegovy). Tirzepatide acts on both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, which may explain its stronger effect on weight. Mounjaro is the diabetes brand; Zepbound is the same drug approved for weight loss. Dosing is once weekly by injection for all of them.

Key Differences

• Mechanism: Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) is GLP-1 only; tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) is GIP + GLP-1.
• Weight loss: In trials, tirzepatide produced greater weight loss and more responders at 25%+ loss. Both are effective compared with placebo.
• Dosing: Semaglutide tops out around 1.7–2.4 mg weekly; tirzepatide goes to 10–15 mg weekly at maximum tolerated dose.
• Approval: Ozempic and Mounjaro for diabetes; Wegovy and Zepbound for weight loss. Off-label use and insurance coverage vary.
• Side effects: Similar profiles: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation; usually manageable with dose titration. Discuss history of pancreatitis, thyroid disease, and pregnancy with your doctor.

Cost and Access

List prices are high; insurance and coupons determine what you pay. Coverage often depends on diagnosis (diabetes vs obesity), BMI, and prior authorization. Supply has improved from earlier shortages but can still vary by formulation and dose.

Impact on Patients

These drugs have changed the conversation around obesity treatment. More options mean more people can find an effective therapy, but cost and access remain barriers. Long-term data on maintenance and outcomes continue to accumulate.

What's Next

Expect more head-to-head data and possibly new formulations (e.g., oral or less frequent dosing). Guidelines and insurance criteria will evolve. Always choose and adjust medication with a healthcare provider based on your health, goals, and coverage.