What is the difference between ozempic and zepbound?

Both Ozempic and Zepbound are injectable medications for weight management and type 2 diabetes, but they contain different active ingredients and have slightly different primary approvals.

• Ozempic (semaglutide): This is primarily approved by the FDA for treating Type 2 Diabetes, though it is widely used "off-label" for weight loss. Its sister drug, Wegovy, contains the same ingredient (semaglutide) but is approved specifically for chronic weight management. Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It works by slowing digestion, increasing insulin release, and reducing appetite.

• Zepbound (tirzepatide): This is the newer medication, approved specifically for chronic weight management. It is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, meaning it acts on two hormonal pathways instead of one. In clinical trials, Zepbound often showed slightly greater average weight loss compared to semaglutide.

Simple Analogy: Ozempic is like a powerful tool that's great for blood sugar and also very good for weight loss. Zepbound is like a next-generation tool designed from the ground up to be even more potent for weight loss, though it also improves blood sugar.

Crucially: Both are prescription-only, have potential side effects (nausea, gastrointestinal issues), and are meant to be used with diet and exercise. You must consult a doctor to see which is right for your specific health profile.

FDA info on Zepbound: FDA Approves New Medication for Chronic Weight Management