Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide: Evidence and Plan Costs
Compare weight-management evidence, side effects and AnthologyRX’s monthly and quarterly injection prices before discussing your options with a clinician.
The short answer
In a head-to-head trial of approved injectable products, tirzepatide produced greater average weight loss than semaglutide. That group result is not a prediction for every person or proof that a compounded formulation has the same performance.
Side by side
| Semaglutide | Tirzepatide | |
|---|---|---|
| Drug action | GLP-1 receptor agonist | GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Head-to-head study | Weekly injection in adults with obesity without diabetes | Same study population and duration |
| Offered here | Compounded preparation | Compounded preparation |
| Compare before choosing | Health history, prior response, dose and total plan cost | Health history, prior response, dose and total plan cost |
Compare the monthly plan costs
Compounded semaglutide injections: $149 billed monthly, or $387 billed every three months ($129/month equivalent).
Compounded tirzepatide injections: $199 billed monthly, or $507 billed every three months ($169/month equivalent).
These standard AnthologyRX prices include clinical review, prescribed medication, pharmacy fulfillment, shipping and care-team messaging. Quarterly plans require three months paid up front. First-order promotions do not reduce the standard renewal price.
Use our GLP-1 cost calculator and fee guide to compare longer-term totals, or compare all available GLP-1 formulations and plans.
What the evidence shows
SURMOUNT-5 compared maximum tolerated weekly doses over 72 weeks. It studied semaglutide 1.7 or 2.4 mg and tirzepatide 10 or 15 mg in adults with obesity without type 2 diabetes. Both groups lost weight; tirzepatide had the greater mean reduction. Other doses, routes and populations require their own interpretation.
Read: Aronne et al. Tirzepatide versus semaglutide for obesity; Wegovy prescribing information; Zepbound prescribing information; FDA: Unapproved GLP-1 drugs used for weight loss.
What matters for your decision
Discuss prior treatment, side effects and any reason a compounded preparation is being considered. Confirm the prescribed concentration and instructions. Review gastrointestinal and other risks, pregnancy plans and the MTC/MEN2 contraindications in the relevant labeling.
Planning a more active life?
Your goals may go beyond a number on the scale. Our guide to returning to exercise after weight loss explores strength, stamina and making a routine fit your life.
Questions
Does this mean tirzepatide is always the better choice?
No. A trial average does not settle individual tolerability, eligibility, affordability or the suitability of a specific preparation. Compare the full plan rather than ranking medicines by a single number.
Sources
- Aronne et al. Tirzepatide versus semaglutide for obesity
NEJM, 2025. SURMOUNT-5: randomized, 72-week comparison in adults with obesity without diabetes.
- Wegovy prescribing information
DailyMed. Approved semaglutide products, indications and safety.
- Zepbound prescribing information
DailyMed. Approved tirzepatide product and safety.
- FDA: Unapproved GLP-1 drugs used for weight loss
Compounded products, salt forms and dosing errors.
