GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss: Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound)

Introduction

GLP-1 medications have transformed weight management and type 2 diabetes care. The two most widely discussed are semaglutide (brand names: Ozempic®, Wegovy®) and tirzepatide (brand names: Mounjaro®, Zepbound™).

Both help lower blood sugar, reduce appetite, and promote clinically significant weight loss — but which one is right for you?

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, a class of medications that mimic a natural hormone in the body. They help:

• Lower blood glucose levels

• Reduce appetite

• Improve satiety (feeling full longer)

• Support significant and sustainable weight loss

Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy)

Brand Names:

• Ozempic® – type 2 diabetes

• Wegovy® – chronic weight management

Average Weight Loss:

• 12–15% of body weight (STEP-1 trial, 68 weeks)

Side Effects (Clinical Trial Data):

• Nausea: 20–44%

• Vomiting: 15–24%

• Diarrhea: 12–30%

• Constipation: 16–24%

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound)

Brand Names:

• Mounjaro® – type 2 diabetes

• Zepbound™ – chronic weight management

Average Weight Loss:

• 15–22.5% of body weight (SURMOUNT-1 trial, 72 weeks)

Side Effects (Clinical Trial Data):

• Nausea: 18–33%

• Vomiting: 8–23%

• Diarrhea: 12–18%

• Constipation: 11–17%

Which GLP-1 is Right for You?

• For maximum weight loss results → Zepbound (tirzepatide)

• For longest track record and safety data → Wegovy/Ozempic (semaglutide)

The right choice depends on your health goals and medical history

Frequently Asked Questions About GLP-1 Medications

1. How long does it take to see results with semaglutide or tirzepatide?
Most patients notice appetite suppression in 4–6 weeks; maximum weight loss occurs after 9–12 months.

2. Can you drink alcohol while on Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Zepbound?
Yes, but alcohol can worsen nausea and affect blood sugar. Moderation is key.

3. What’s the difference between Wegovy and Ozempic?
Both are semaglutide. Ozempic treats type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight loss at higher doses.

4. Is tirzepatide stronger than semaglutide?
Yes — studies show tirzepatide may achieve 15–22% weight loss, compared to 12–15% with semaglutide.

5. Do GLP-1s cause muscle loss?
Rapid weight loss may reduce lean mass, but strength training and high-protein diets help preserve muscle.

6. Are semaglutide and tirzepatide safe long-term?
Semaglutide has more long-term data, while tirzepatide is newer but showing strong safety so far.

7. Can I switch from Ozempic to Mounjaro?
Yes, but only under medical supervision. Insurance and medical needs will determine if switching makes sense.

✅ Final Takeaway

Both semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) are powerful GLP-1 medications for weight loss and diabetes.

At Jersey Shore TRT, we create personalized medical weight loss programs using these cutting-edge therapies.

👉 Contact us today for a free consultation and find out which GLP-1 is right for you.

References

1. Wilding JPH et al. N Engl J Med. 2021;384:989–1002. (STEP-1 Trial: Semaglutide for Weight Management)

2. Davies M et al. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2021;23(3): 682–691. (Semaglutide Side Effects and Tolerability)

3. Jastreboff AM et al. N Engl J Med. 2022;387:205–216. (SURMOUNT-1 Trial: Tirzepatide for Weight Management)

4. Frias JP et al. N Engl J Med. 2021;385:503–515. (Tirzepatide in Type 2 Diabetes)