What's the difference between Ozempic, Wegovy, other weight loss drugs?

Medications, including some created to treat diabetes, are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to support weight loss.

Among these are several drugs that belong to a class known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. While they share similarities, there are differences, particularly in the drugs semaglutide and tirzepatide.

Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1, according to WebMD. It works by helping regulate blood sugar, slowing down stomach emptying and signaling to the brain that you’re full, making it effective for both diabetes management and weight loss.

Tirzepatide, found in Mounjaro and Zepbound, also acts as a GLP-1 receptor agonist, but it goes a step further. It mimics a second hormone known as a GIP receptor agonist, which also plays a role in insulin production and appetite regulation, per WebMD. Because tirzepatide activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, it may offer an enhanced effect on weight loss and blood sugar control.

Ozempic is FDA-approved for treating Type 2 diabetes, and it may also reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke in people with diabetes and heart disease. Wegovy, although it contains the same drug, is approved for weight management in adults and kids 12 and up with obesity, according to WebMD.

Similarly, Mounjaro is approved for Type 2 diabetes, while Zepbound is approved for weight loss in adults with a BMI of 30 or higher if they have a related condition like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea or heart disease.