In recent years, the weight loss world has been revolutionized by two powerful injectable medications: Tirzepatide (brand name Mounjaro, soon Vefora in the Philippines) and Semaglutide (popularly known as Ozempic or Wegovy). Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, both medications have gained widespread attention for their dramatic weight loss effects—often outpacing traditional diet and exercise alone.

But with both making headlines, the question remains:
Which is better—Tirzepatide or Semaglutide?

Let’s dive deep into their differences, similarities, benefits, and side-by-side results.

 

1. What Are Tirzepatide and Semaglutide?

Tirzepatide is a dual-action injectable medication that mimics two hormones: GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide).
Semaglutide, on the other hand, targets only GLP-1.

👉 Key Difference: Tirzepatide works on two pathways for appetite control and insulin regulation. Semaglutide works on one.

 

2. How They Promote Weight Loss

Both drugs work by:

• Reducing appetite
• Slowing stomach emptying
• Improving insulin sensitivity
• Regulating blood sugar levels

But studies show Tirzepatide may reduce body weight more effectively than Semaglutide due to its dual-hormone mechanism.

📊 Clinical Trial Snapshot:

• Tirzepatide (15mg): Average weight loss of 22.5% of body weight over 72 weeks
• Semaglutide (2.4mg): Average weight loss of 14.9% over the same period

 

3. Side Effects: Are They Safe?

Both medications may cause temporary gastrointestinal side effects:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation

These usually subside after a few weeks.
Tirzepatide may have a slightly higher incidence of nausea, but patient tolerance varies.

Good to Know: Starting at lower doses and increasing slowly minimizes side effects.

 

4. Dosage & Administration

• Tirzepatide: Once-weekly injection (2.5mg to 15mg)
• Semaglutide: Once-weekly injection (starting at 0.25mg, up to 2.4mg for weight loss)

💉 Ease of Use: Both are self-injected once a week via a prefilled pen.

 

5. Cost & Accessibility

In the Philippines and globally, price is a key consideration:

• Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy): Widely available but expensive
• Tirzepatide (Mounjaro): Gaining traction, possibly more cost-effective per % of weight loss
• Local brands (like us, Vefora™) a very affordable alternative for Filipinos

 

Final Verdict: Tirzepatide vs. Semaglutide