If you’re struggling to meet your weight loss or blood sugar control goals, Zepbound® and Mounjaro® may be able to help. Mounjaro® and Zepbound® contain the same active ingredient, tirzepatide, but are used for different purposes.
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and our prescription discount card.
In November 2023, Zepbound® became the latest weight-loss drug approved by the FDA. Taken as a weekly injection, it works by mimicking two hormones, GIP and GLP-1, to suppress appetite.
Tirzepatide works in multiple ways including decreasing gastric emptying to make you feel full longer and on receptors in the brain that regulate hunger, helping to reduce cravings. Research shows tirzepatide® may lead up to a 22.5% weight loss for some individuals. 4
Mounjaro® was FDA approved in May 2022 as a once-weekly injection that helps lower appetite and control blood sugar levels. Since it has the same active ingredient as Zepbound, it works the exact same way as Zepbound.5
In clinical trials, Mounjaro showed A1c reductions of 2.46% in the highest doses and 2.09% on the lowest doses.6
Even though Mounjaro and Zepbound have the same active ingredient, tirzepatide, and have the same doses, Mounjaro is FDA approved for type 2 diabetes, and therefore, most insurance plans will only cover it if you have proof that you are a type 2 diabetic.7
Both Zepbound® and Mounjaro® contain the active ingredient tirzepatide, while Ozempic® contains semaglutide.
Ozempic® is a once-weekly injection that is FDA approved for type 2 diabetes but can have beneficial effects for both weight loss and type 2 diabetes. It was FDA approved in 2017. In clinical studies, people lost an average of 12-15% of their body weight over 68 weeks2. However, because Ozempic was FDA approved for type 2 diabetes, similar to Mounjaro, most insurance companies will only cover Ozempic with proof of having a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.
Ozempic® works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 that regulates blood sugar and decreases appetite. This helps you curb cravings, and makes you feel full faster when eating.
Zepbound® and Mounjaro® both contain the active ingredient tirzepatide, which works on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors to help control sugar levels and delay gastric emptying to decrease appetite.
Both Zepbound® and Mounjaro® have a starting dose of 2.5mg, taken for four weeks before being increased to 5mg. Patients must be on each dose for a minimum of 4 weeks before increasing the dose to the next higher dose. The maximum dosage for both medications is 15mg.
These medications come in a single-dose, pre-filled applicator, taken in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. Your doctor will determine the proper dosage based on your response to the medication, goals, and health conditions.
Zepbound® is priced similarly to other brand-name weight loss medications, around $1000 per month without insurance. There are also Zepbound vials that are available through LillyDirect and were released in August 2024 that offer patients a cash only method of obtaining the lowest doses of Zepbound (2.5 mg and 5 mg) for $399-$549. The manufacturer does offer coupon programs but not everyone may be eligible for the coupons.
Mounjaro® is priced similarly, at around $1000 per month, depending on your location and pharmacy. Mounjaro®'s manufacturer has also initiated programs to reduce and cap monthly copays for commercially insured patients.
These side effects are often temporary but can be minimized by taking the drug with food, staying hydrated, and making sure you are starting with a lowest dose. If the issues persist or worsen, talk to your doctor.
If you experience any of these severe side effects while taking either medication, get emergency medical attention right away:
Zepbound® and Mounjaro® may have some interactions with other medications being taken. Some medications include, but are not limited to:
Our board-certified primary care physicians help you through every step of your weight loss journey. We have appointments available 24/7, and we can help you get your prescription online with convenient, same-day appointments available.
Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and our prescription discount card.
You should not take Zepbound® or Mounjaro® if you:
There may be other reasons to not take these medications, and it is best to consult with your physician to go over your personal health history to assess the risks and benefits of taking these medications. They can help you find a treatment plan that supports your goals and overall well-being.
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PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.
