GLP-1 drugs compared: Zepbound vs Wegovy vs Ozempic, and every option

Zepbound vs Wegovy vs Ozempic

The three most-searched names. Efficacy figures below are averagebody-weight change from each drug’s pivotal trial (alongside diet and exercise) — individual results vary widely and side effects and cost differ. Not medical advice.

A 2025 head-to-head trial (SURMOUNT-5) found tirzepatide produced greater average weight loss than semaglutide in adults with obesity. Trial averages aren’t a promise for any one person — a clinician weighs efficacy, side effects, other conditions, and cost.

Every GLP-1 option, normalized

Tap a brand for our independent page — FDA label, safety, and our recall-safety rating where one exists. Approved uses and mechanisms are from FDA prescribing information (DailyMed).

What sets each apart

Ozempic (semaglutide)

Same molecule as Wegovy and Rybelsus. FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (and to cut cardiovascular risk in some adults) — weight loss is a common secondary effect, but Wegovy is the version FDA-approved for weight management.

Wegovy (semaglutide)

The weight-management version of semaglutide (higher max dose, 2.4 mg). Same active drug as Ozempic; the brand and approved use differ.

Zepbound (tirzepatide)

The weight-management brand of tirzepatide, which acts on two gut hormones (GIP and GLP-1). Same molecule as Mounjaro; also FDA-approved for moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity.

Mounjaro (tirzepatide)

The type-2-diabetes brand of tirzepatide. Same molecule as Zepbound; brand and approved use differ.

Rybelsus (semaglutide)

Oral semaglutide — the first GLP-1 in a daily pill rather than an injection. Take on an empty stomach with a small sip of water; approved for type 2 diabetes.

Trulicity (dulaglutide)

A once-weekly GLP-1 for type 2 diabetes (and cardiovascular risk reduction in some adults). Not FDA-approved for weight loss.

Victoza (liraglutide)

An older, once-daily GLP-1 for type 2 diabetes. Saxenda is the same molecule (liraglutide) approved for weight management.

Saxenda (liraglutide)

Once-daily liraglutide for weight management — same molecule as Victoza. Generally produces less weight loss than the weekly semaglutide/tirzepatide options, worth discussing with a clinician.

Foundayo (orforglipron)

A newer small-molecule GLP-1 pill (FDA-approved 2026) taken once daily with no food or water restrictions — an oral alternative to the injectables.

FAQ

Are Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus the same drug?

Yes — all three are semaglutide, made by Novo Nordisk. Ozempic (weekly injection) and Rybelsus (daily pill) are approved for type 2 diabetes; Wegovy (weekly injection, higher max dose) is approved for weight management. Same active molecule, different brand, dose, and approved use.

Are Mounjaro and Zepbound the same drug?

Yes — both are tirzepatide, made by Eli Lilly, a dual GIP + GLP-1 agonist. Mounjaro is the type-2-diabetes brand; Zepbound is the weight-management brand (also approved for obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity).

Which GLP-1 causes the most weight loss?

In pivotal trials, tirzepatide (Zepbound) produced the largest average weight loss, and a 2025 head-to-head trial (SURMOUNT-5) found it produced greater average weight loss than semaglutide (Wegovy). But these are trial averages — individual results vary, side effects and cost differ, and the right choice is individualized. This is general information, not medical advice.

Is there a GLP-1 pill instead of an injection?

Yes. Rybelsus is oral semaglutide (a daily tablet, taken on an empty stomach), and Foundayo (orforglipron) is a newer daily GLP-1 pill approved in 2026 with no food/water restrictions. Both are alternatives to the weekly injections.