What is the difference between Tirzepatide and Ozempic

Essential Information

  • Both Tirzepatide and Ozempic contain the same active ingredient: semaglutide.
  • Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight loss, whereas Ozempic is FDA-approved for treating type 2 diabetes. However, some doctors may prescribe Ozempic off-label for weight management.
  • In the event of a Zepbound shortage, try ordering your refill sooner than usual, request a 2- or 3-month supply, or check with other local and online pharmacies to see if they have Zepbound available.
  • The available dosages for each medication vary. Additionally, Wegovy injection pens come with a built-in needle, whereas Ozempic pens require you to attach a needle to the pen before each dose.

What We'll Explore

If you are dealing with overweight, obesity, or type 2 diabetes, you may be familiar with Wegovy and Ozempic. Both are GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) medications that contain the same active ingredient, semaglutide. Given that they share this active ingredient, you might wonder: is Wegovy the same as Ozempic?

Tirzepatide vs. Ozempic: are they the same?

While both medications are effective for blood sugar management and weight loss, Tirzepatide may offer additional benefits due to its dual-action mechanism. However, they are distinct drugs with different active ingredients and mechanisms of action.

How does Ozempic work?

As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, Ozempic functions similarly to the natural GLP-1 hormone. It binds to GLP-1 receptors and signals the pancreas to release insulin into the bloodstream when blood sugar levels rise. The increased insulin helps lower blood sugar levels. By mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, Ozempic is highly effective at stabilizing blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

How does Tirzepatide work?

Tirzepatide works by mimicking the actions of two naturally occurring hormones in the body, known as GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). These hormones play a key role in regulating blood sugar levels, appetite, and body weight. When you take Tirzepatide, it stimulates the receptors for both GIP and GLP-1, which helps increase insulin production in response to meals, decrease the amount of glucose released by the liver, and slow down the rate at which food leaves the stomach. This combination of effects not only helps to control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes but also leads to a reduction in appetite and, ultimately, weight loss.

DISCLAIMER

If you have any medical questions or concerns, please consult your healthcare provider. The articles on Health Guide are based on peer-reviewed research and information from medical societies and governmental agencies. However, they do not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.