Semaglutide vs tirzepatide: how do they compare?
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are both once-weekly injectable medications used for weight management, and the main difference is how they work. Semaglutide targets one gut-hormone receptor (GLP-1); tirzepatide targets two (GLP-1 and GIP). Both are prescription medications that need a provider's judgment, and the right choice depends on your health history, response, insurance, and cost. At Expert Health, compounded semaglutide starts at $199 per month and tirzepatide at $266 per month on the 3-month plan.
Semaglutide vs tirzepatide, side by side
Both are part of the modern generation of GLP-1 weight-management medicines. They are more alike than different in everyday use (a weekly self-injection, titrated up over time), but the mechanism and the brand landscape differ.
| Semaglutide | Tirzepatide | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | GLP-1 receptor agonist (one target) | Dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist (two targets) |
| FDA-approved brands | Ozempic (type 2 diabetes), Wegovy (weight) | Mounjaro (type 2 diabetes), Zepbound (weight) |
| How it's taken | Once-weekly injection | Once-weekly injection |
| Dosing | Titrated up over weeks to a maintenance dose | Titrated up over weeks to a maintenance dose |
| At Expert Health (compounded) | From $199/mo on the 3-month plan | From $266/mo on the 3-month plan |
Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. A licensed provider decides whether either is appropriate for you.
How each one works
Semaglutide mimics GLP-1, a hormone your gut releases after eating that signals fullness and slows how quickly the stomach empties. The result, for many people, is reduced appetite and smaller portions.
Tirzepatide does the same on the GLP-1 receptor and also activates a second receptor, GIP, which is involved in how the body handles blood sugar and fat. It is sometimes called a dual agonist for that reason.
Whether the second target translates into a better result for any individual is a clinical question, and the studied outcomes are covered on our evidence pages: the science of semaglutide and the science of tirzepatide. Individual results vary.
Which one is right for you?
This is the part a provider is for. The decision usually weighs several things, not just one:
- Your health history and any conditions or medications that make one option more suitable.
- How you respond, including tolerability. Some people do better on one than the other, and dose can be adjusted.
- Cost and insurance, since coverage for the brand products and the price of compounded options differ.
- Your goals and preferences, discussed with the provider who is monitoring your progress.
At Expert Health, a US-licensed provider reviews your goals and history and helps you choose, then adjusts the plan with check-ins every four weeks. Compare full pricing on semaglutide cost and tirzepatide cost.
Can you switch between them?
Often, yes, under a provider's guidance. People sometimes start on one and move to the other based on tolerability, response, cost, or availability. Switching is a clinical decision that includes re-titrating the dose, so it should be done with your provider rather than on your own.
Frequently asked questions
Is tirzepatide better than semaglutide?
What is the difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide?
Which is cheaper, semaglutide or tirzepatide?
Can I switch from semaglutide to tirzepatide?
This article is for general educational purposes and is not medical or legal advice. Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA, and treatments referenced are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. Individual results vary. Always consult a licensed provider before starting any treatment.
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