When it comes to new weight loss treatments, many patients are asking about Zepbound vs Mounjaro and which one may be the better option. Both medications are part of the GLP-1/GIP agonist family and work by targeting hormones that regulate appetite and blood sugar. While they are closely related, there are some key differences that make each unique for weight management and type 2 diabetes care.
Understanding the distinctions between Zepbound vs Mounjaro can help patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers make informed decisions. Below is a side-by-side comparison that breaks down how these two medications differ in approval status, usage, dosing, and benefits.
Comparison Table of Zepbound vs Mounjaro
| Feature | Zepbound | Mounjaro |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Zepbound | Mounjaro |
| Generic Name | Tirzepatide | Tirzepatide |
| Manufacturer | Eli Lilly | Eli Lilly |
| FDA Approval | Approved (2023) for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight + comorbidities | Approved (2022) for type 2 diabetes management |
| Primary Use | Weight loss / obesity treatment | Blood sugar control for type 2 diabetes |
| Secondary Benefit | Helps improve metabolic health and reduce risk factors linked to obesity | Weight loss as a secondary benefit in type 2 diabetes patients |
| Dosage Forms | Once-weekly injection, available in multiple dose strengths | Once-weekly injection, available in multiple dose strengths |
| Starting Dose | Typically begins at 2.5 mg and titrated upward | Typically begins at 2.5 mg and titrated upward |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm) | Subcutaneous injection (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm) |
| Weight Loss Results | In clinical trials, patients lost up to 20% of body weight over 72 weeks | In diabetes trials, patients lost an average of 15–20% of body weight over 72 weeks |
| Insurance Coverage | Often covered for obesity treatment depending on policy | Widely covered for diabetes, weight loss coverage varies |
| Side Effects | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue |
| Unique Point | Specifically FDA-approved for weight management | Primarily FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, weight loss use is off-label |
Both medications use the same active ingredient, but the difference lies in their FDA approvals and how doctors prescribe them. If your main goal is weight loss, Zepbound is marketed and approved for that purpose. If you are managing type 2 diabetes with the added benefit of weight reduction, Mounjaro may be the preferred option.
To explore more detailed comparisons of GLP-1 and GIP weight loss medications, check out our other resources like Wegovy vs Zepbound and upcoming treatment guides.