Free tools for comparing Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro & Zepbound — dosing calculators, cost breakdowns, food guides, and more.
Interactive tools built for patients — not doctors.
* Prices are list prices without insurance. Actual cost varies. Always consult your doctor. Sources: FDA, manufacturer websites.
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists are a class of medications that mimic a natural hormone in your body. They slow stomach emptying, reduce appetite, and help regulate blood sugar. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, several are now FDA-approved for weight loss.
Both contain semaglutide (same active ingredient) made by Novo Nordisk. The key differences: Ozempic is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes and comes in doses up to 2mg. Wegovy is FDA-approved specifically for weight loss and goes up to 2.4mg — a higher maintenance dose. Wegovy typically causes more weight loss due to the higher max dose.
Clinical trial results vary by drug. Semaglutide (Wegovy) showed ~15% average body weight loss over 68 weeks. Tirzepatide (Zepbound) showed ~20% average weight loss — the highest of any approved medication. Individual results vary significantly based on diet, exercise, starting weight, and other factors.
Coverage varies widely. Most insurance covers GLP-1s for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic, Mounjaro) but many plans still don't cover obesity-specific versions (Wegovy, Zepbound). Medicare Part D began covering some GLP-1s for obesity in 2026. Use our Cost Calculator for a breakdown by scenario.
High-fat and greasy foods dramatically worsen nausea on GLP-1s. Avoid fried foods, fast food, alcohol, and sugary drinks — especially in the first few months. See our full Food Compatibility Guide for a complete list.
This site is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. Content is reviewed against FDA and NIH guidelines.
Compare all 4 FDA-approved GLP-1 medications side by side.
| Factor | Ozempic | Wegovy | Mounjaro | Zepbound |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Semaglutide | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide | Tirzepatide |
| Manufacturer | Novo Nordisk | Novo Nordisk | Eli Lilly | Eli Lilly |
| FDA Approval | Type 2 Diabetes | Obesity / BMI ≥30 | Type 2 Diabetes | Obesity / BMI ≥30 |
| Mechanism | GLP-1 agonist | GLP-1 agonist | GLP-1 + GIP dual | GLP-1 + GIP dual |
| Dosing Frequency | Once weekly | Once weekly | Once weekly | Once weekly |
| Starting Dose | 0.25mg | 0.25mg | 2.5mg | 2.5mg |
| Max Dose | 2.0mg | 2.4mg | 15mg | 15mg |
| Avg Weight Loss | ~15% | ~15% | ~20% | ~20% |
| List Price / Month | ~$935 | ~$1,349 | ~$1,023 | ~$1,059 |
| With Insurance | ~$25–$50 | Often not covered | ~$25–$50 | Varies widely |
| Heart Benefits | ✅ Proven (SUSTAIN-6) | ✅ Proven (SELECT) | ⏳ Pending trials | ⏳ Pending trials |
| Nausea Risk | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate-High |
| Pen Type | Reusable pen | Single-use autoinjector | Single-use autoinjector | Single-use autoinjector |
| Compounded Available | No (off shortage) | No (off shortage) | Limited | Limited |
| Best For | Diabetics, insured patients | Weight loss, heart disease risk | Diabetics wanting max weight loss | Weight loss, max results |
| Overall Rating | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Sources: FDA prescribing information, manufacturer websites, clinical trial data (SUSTAIN, STEP, SURPASS, SURMOUNT programs). Prices are list prices and subject to change. Always consult your physician.
Enter your medication and start date — get a complete week-by-week dosing schedule.
Real monthly costs — with insurance, without insurance, and compounded options.
What to eat, what to avoid, and how to minimize side effects through diet.
These foods are well-tolerated and support your results:
These dramatically increase nausea and side effects:
GLP-1 medications slow gastric emptying. Overeating — even of healthy foods — causes discomfort. Try 5–6 small meals instead of 3 large ones.
Nausea and vomiting increase dehydration risk. Aim for 8–10 glasses of water daily. Avoid drinking large amounts of water immediately before or after eating.
Many patients tolerate injections better on a day when they plan lighter activity. Inject on the same day each week at the same time for best consistency.
Search and understand side effects — how common, severity, and what to do.
The latest FDA updates, clinical research, and coverage news.
Starting 2026, Medicare Part D plans are permitted to cover GLP-1 receptor agonists for obesity treatment. Coverage varies by plan, and prior authorization is typically required. Patients must have a BMI ≥30 or BMI ≥27 with a weight-related comorbidity.
A landmark head-to-head trial (SURMOUNT-5) published in NEJM confirmed that tirzepatide (Zepbound) produced significantly greater weight loss than semaglutide (Wegovy) at 72 weeks — an average of 47% more weight loss. This is the first direct comparison trial between the two leading drugs.
The FDA has sent warning letters to over 30 telehealth companies marketing compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide now that both drugs are off the FDA shortage list. Compounded versions are generally no longer allowed under the drug shortage exception, though 503A compounding pharmacies may still prepare patient-specific formulations with a valid prescription.
A review of long-term follow-up data shows that most patients regain the majority of lost weight within 1–2 years of stopping GLP-1 therapy. Researchers are calling for reclassification of obesity as a chronic disease requiring long-term medical management, similar to hypertension or diabetes.