Head to head
Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide: Cost and Evidence, Compared
The two molecules behind every GLP-1 headline. One targets a single gut-hormone receptor; the other targets two — and they price very differently once compounded options enter the picture.
The short answer
Tirzepatide is the dual-receptor molecule with the stronger average trial result; semaglutide is the older, more widely studied one with cheaper entry pricing and an oral form. In the compounded market the relationship flips: compounded tirzepatide undercuts its brand by more, because brand tirzepatide has no cheap starter dose to compete with.
The differences that matter
| Wegovy | Zepbound | |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | GLP-1 receptor agonist | Dual GIP + GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Brand names (weight loss) | Wegovy (pen and pill) | Zepbound (vial and KwikPen) |
| Cheapest brand entry | $149/mo (oral, low dose) | $299/mo (2.5 mg) |
| Compounded market | ~$139–$297/mo all-in | Undercuts brand by a wider margin |
| Oral option | Yes — Wegovy pill, plus Foundayo is a different oral molecule | No oral form |
| Head-to-head evidence | SURMOUNT-5 reported greater average loss on tirzepatide | SURMOUNT-5 favoured tirzepatide |
Cheapest channels for each, right now
Wegovy
NovoCare Pharmacy
pill · 1.5 mg
$149/mo Sesame Care
pill · 1.5/4 mg
$149/mo NovoCare Pharmacy
pill · 4 mg
$199/mo Hims & Hers
Full Wegovy guide → pill · from $149
$298/mo Zepbound
LillyDirect — Zepbound Self Pay
vial/pen · 2.5 mg
$299/mo LillyDirect — Zepbound Self Pay
vial/pen · 5 mg
$399/mo Hims & Hers
vial/pen · from $299
$448/mo Ro (Ro Body)
Full Zepbound guide → pen · 2.5 mg
$448/mo Sources
Run your own numbers with the GLP-1 cost calculator, check whether you're overpaying with the price checker, or see every comparison we publish.
Comparisons of approved uses, mechanisms, and published trial averages — not medical advice, and averages are not individuals. Which medication suits you is a decision for you and a licensed clinician. Prices carry the verification dates shown. Some links may earn commissions; comparisons are computed from data, never compensation — disclosure.