Ozempic vs. Zepbound: Delve Into the Differences and Similarities

The market for weight loss drugs has been expanding in recent years. Many individuals start medication alongside diet and exercise to help achieve a healthy weight. As the number of choices is growing, it is important to understand the benefits and risks of particular medicines.

Here, we discuss the differences and similarities between two popular options, Zepbound and Ozempic, to help you make informed decisions. Both drugs have gained popularity after celebrities and social media highlighted their efficacy in weight management.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is an injection medicine developed by Novo Nordisk and approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2017. It's a prescription-only medication that is indicated to control blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes, in combination with a healthy diet and exercise. However, in recent years, it has been extensively used off-label for weight management since the FDA has not officially approved it for weight loss. Ozempic is available in four different dosage forms, starting from 0.25 mg to 2 mg per injection.

The active substance present in this weight loss drug is semaglutide. This drug is known as a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics the naturally occurring hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) produced by the cells in the small intestine when the blood sugar levels are high. GLP-1 stimulates the pancreas to produce insulin and regulates the levels of glucagon to lower blood sugar levels.

What is Zepbound?

Zepbound is a new weight loss drug developed by Eli Lilly and Company in the form of injections. The FDA approved it in 2023 for use in the U.S. market. The drug is available by prescription only and in six different dosages, starting from 2.5 mg to 15 mg. While taking Zepbound, individuals should follow a reduced-calorie diet and increase their physical activity.

The main indication of Zepbound is chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight, with an initial body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or greater (obesity). The medicine can also be used in individuals with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or greater (overweight) if they have at least one medical condition related to their weight. These can include, among others, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, or obstructive sleep apnea.

The active ingredient of Zepbound is tirzepatide. It acts as a dual agonist of human glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors. This drug regulates blood sugar levels by stimulating the release of insulin from the pancreas. It also increases the levels of adiponectin (a hormone that affects many metabolic processes), which might reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Zepbound helps to reduce blood sugar levels and slows down stomach emptying, which extends the feeling of satiety. Current clinical trials are also evaluating the effectiveness of the drug to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Ozempic vs. Zepbound

The use of these medications is becoming increasingly popular during the weight loss journey. Here, we compare Zepbound and Ozempic so you can understand the key similarities and differences between these drugs.

Factors to consider: Ozempic vs. Zepbound

The decision on whether you should take Ozempic or Zepbound should be made by a medical professional who understands your weight loss goals and knows your medical history.

Ozempic might be recommended for individuals with type 2 diabetes who need to manage both blood sugar levels and weight. It can be beneficial for those whose glucose levels cannot be controlled by other medications.

Zepbound might be more suitable for individuals with obesity. However, it can also be administered to people with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or greater who have at least one weight-related medical condition.

The choice will also depend on various other factors, such as whether the individual has an allergy to the active ingredient in Ozempic (semaglutide) or Zepbound (tirzepatide). While both medications can be used for weight management, they should only be administered to individuals with overweight or obesity. These drugs are not suitable for individuals whose BMI is within the normal range.

The medical professional might also recommend other weight loss treatments for individuals for whom taking Ozempic or Zepbound is not suitable. According to the box warnings, both medications may cause thyroid tumors, including cancer. Therefore, they should not be taken by individuals who have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or have multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).

How to choose the right weight loss drug

Choosing the right weight loss drug can be overwhelming. It’s important to discuss your individual health situation and expectations with your healthcare provider, who can suggest the medication that’s right for you.

Before your medical appointment, understand your weight loss goals. The doctor will help you evaluate your health condition and assess certain medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, or a personal or family history of thyroid problems, which are likely to influence the choice.

Your healthcare professional will also consider any potential allergies or medications you’re currently taking to ensure the treatment is appropriate for you. They will help you understand the potential risks and side effects associated with weight loss medications.

Finally, Ozempic and Zepbound are just two options among various medicines and weight loss treatments. Your doctor may recommend other approaches based on your individual needs, which might include other drugs, diet, or exercise.

Final word

The market for weight loss medications is evolving rapidly, introducing new drugs. Zepbound and Ozempic are among the most common choices for individuals aiming to reduce body weight. While these two medications have different active ingredients, they reduce blood sugar control, slow stomach emptying, and reduce appetite, helping to reduce weight gain.

Before starting these medications, it is important to consult a healthcare professional who can assess your medical history and health condition to select the right weight loss drug for your needs. For positive weight loss outcomes, it is essential to combine these medications with healthy practices, such as a nutrient-rich diet and regular exercise.