Zepbound vs Mounjaro: Choose the Right Medication for You

Zepbound and Mounjaro are both effective as weight loss drugs but only Zepbound has FDA approval for this purpose, while Mounjaro is prescribed for treatment of Type 2 diabetes.

Medically Reviewed By Mostafa Elhennawy MS, Pharm D

Zepbound and Mounjaro belong to the class of medication known as GLP-1 receptor agonists which gained fame thanks to their superior control of blood sugar levels and weight loss effects. 

Zepbound and Mounjaro are essentially the same medicine prescribed for different health conditions. 

In this article we will review what the differences are and how to choose between them.

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What Are Zepbound and Mounjaro Used for?

  • Zepbound is FDA approved treatment for weight management in adults who are overweight (BMI≥27) with at least one weight-related condition or obese (BMI≥30).
  • Mounjaro is FDA approved treatment for Type 2 diabetes.

Clinical trials showed that Tirzepatide reduces severity of sleep apnea symptoms, exerts beneficial effects in chronic kidney disease patients and decreases several markers associated with cardiovascular risk, such as LDL cholesterol.

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How Zepbound and Mounjaro Work

Zepbound and Mounjaro are brand names for the drug Tirzepatide, dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist. GLP-1 is delaying gastric emptying while boosting insulin release and inhibiting glucagon release. GIP enhances GLP-1 effects and aids fat burning while affecting areas of the brain that control appetite and satiety. 

Due to this dual action, Tirzepatide is more effective than solely GLP-1 receptor agonist semaglutide.

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Key Differences between Zepbound vs Mounjaro

Zepbound and Mounjaro differ in insurance coverage and administration devices (adjustable dosing for Mounjaro compared to fixed dosing in user-friendly injectable pen devices).

Active Ingredients

Zepbound and Mounjaro contain the same active ingredient, Tirzepatide, known to interact with 397 drugs, certain food and alcohol.

Availability and Accessibility

Tirzepatide is currently on the FDA list of drugs in short supply, so it is advisable to consult pharmacies about their history of availability with either drug and consider alternative medications.

For the best results Tirzepatide should be:

  • Stored in the original carton protected from direct light.
  • Single-dose pens should be refrigerated.
  • It can be stored at room temperature up to 21 days.

Effectiveness in managing specific conditions

Tirzepatide is highly effective in glycemic control in individuals with Type 2 diabetes and demonstrates substantial and sustained body weight reduction of up to 20.9% depending on the dose.

Common side effects

The most common side effects which mostly improve over time are:

  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Injection site reactions.

Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention are:

  • Allergic reaction
  • Pancreatitis
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Kidney problems
  • Vision changes
  • Thyroid tumor
  • Hypoglycemia.

Cost

Mounjaro costs $1,069.08, while Zepbound is $1,059.87 for a 4-week supply. The price paid by the customer depends on the insurance coverage and coupons offered by pharmacies. 

Insurance Coverage

Mounjaro is very likely to be covered by government-funded programs as a diabetes medication. 

Government-funded healthcare plans and commercial insurance plans don’t necessarily cover anti-obesity drugs, and in some cases doctors must submit an authorization on patient’s behalf to request coverage.

There are savings programs for Mounjaro and Zepbound which can bring the cost down to $25 per month.

Dosage Forms and Administration Methods

Zepbound and Mounjaro are available in six doses: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg and 15 mg. They are administered as a subcutaneous injection in the upper arm, abdomen or thigh.

The healthcare provider starts by prescribing the lowest dose which is increased after 4 weeks. The maintenance dose is the one that provides the desired effect.

How to Decide if Zepbound or Mounjaro Is Right for You?

Factors to take into consideration when deciding between Zepbound and Mounjaro are:

  • Medical history
  • Current medical status 
  • Treatment goals
  • Insurance coverage
  • Tolerance for side effects
  • Drug availability.

Consultation with a doctor is a necessary step in the decision-making process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Zepbound or Mounjaro Cause Long-Term Health Issues?

Long-term health issues seen in Mounjaro trials include pancreatitis and serious digestive problems, while studies didn’t report long-term consequences of Zepbound use.

Can I Switch from Zepbound to Mounjaro or Vice Versa?

Yes, since both medications have the same active ingredient and dosages they are almost interchangeable. Factors affecting the switch are off-label prescription, insurance coverage and cost.

How Long Does it Take to See Results with Zepbound or Mounjaro?

It takes 8-12 weeks for Mounjaro to reduce levels of HbA1c, and a few weeks for Zepbound to make noticeable changes in appetite. Significant weight loss can be observed after 28 weeks.

Key Takeaways

Zepbound and Mounjaro are both effective as weight loss drugs but only Zepbound has FDA approval for this purpose, while Mounjaro is prescribed for treatment of Type 2 diabetes. 

Since both drugs contain the same active ingredient, Tirzepatide, they share a similar side effect profile.

Direct comparison of Zepbound’s and Mounjaro’s features is limited as they have not been studied comparatively in the same study.

The verdict which drug is the best choice depends on the doctor’s evaluation of the patient’s suitability, drug availability and insurance coverage.

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