Semaglutide vs. tirzepatide: how the two GLP-1 options differ
By the Next You Health team · Updated · 5 min read
Medical review pending. This guide has not yet been reviewed by our medical director.
The short answer
Semaglutide acts on one gut-hormone receptor (GLP-1). Tirzepatide acts on two (GIP and GLP-1). Both are once-weekly injections whose dose is raised gradually, and both are used alongside changes to diet and activity. Which one is appropriate, if either, is a decision for a licensed clinician based on your health history.
How each one works
Semaglutide mimics glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that acts on areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. Tirzepatide activates receptors for both GLP-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). In FDA's words, Zepbound activates both receptors “to reduce appetite and food intake.”
Dosing is increased slowly
For the FDA-approved brands, the label starts at a low weekly dose and increases it over several months to reduce stomach side effects. Wegovy is increased over 16 to 20 weeks to a 2.4 mg weekly maintenance dose. Zepbound is increased over 4 to 20 weeks to a weekly target of 5, 10 or 15 mg.
Compounded versions don't come with an FDA-approved dosing schedule. Your clinician sets and adjusts the dose, and you should never change it on your own.
Side effects to know about
The most common side effects reported for semaglutide in its FDA approval include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, headache and fatigue. Tirzepatide has a similar profile. Both medications carry serious warnings that your clinician will review with you, and neither is right for everyone.
Cost at Next You Health
- Semaglutide injection with B12 or glycine: $149, billed every 28 days. Sublingual: $179.
- Semaglutide microdose: $129 to $149 depending on the option.
- Tirzepatide injection with B12 or glycine: $199. Sublingual: $299.
- Tirzepatide microdose: $189 to $199 depending on the option.
- GLP-1 lab panel: $59, one time.
Plans are billed every 28 days, which is 13 charges a year. Prices are the same as our published pricing page, and a clinician must approve treatment before any medication is dispensed.
This guide is general education, not medical advice. The medications described on Next You Health are compounded and are not FDA-approved.
Sources
- FDA news release: Zepbound (tirzepatide) approval
- FDA prescribing information: Wegovy (semaglutide), 2021
- FDA approval letter: Wegovy (semaglutide)
- FDA: What telehealth companies should know when promoting compounded drugs
This guide is general education and is not medical advice. Talk with a licensed clinician about your own situation. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.