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Zepbound vs. Wegovy for weight loss
If you're considering medications for weight loss, Zepbound and Wegovy are two promising options. Both are weekly injections designed for chronic weight management, but they work differently in the body, have varied approval ages, and are tailored to specific health conditions. Here’s everything you need to know to help decide which might be better for you.
Zepbound or Wegovy?
Choosing between Zepbound and Wegovy depends on several factors, including weight loss goals, health conditions like heart disease, and age. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
The basics of Zepbound vs. Wegovy for weight loss
Weight loss on Zepbound vs. Wegovy compared
Zepbound and Wegovy are shown to be effective in weight loss, but Zepbound often results in greater weight reduction. A study found that those on the highest Zepbound dose (15 mg) lost nearly 21% of their starting weight over a 72-week period, while Wegovy users saw around 15% weight loss.
Zepbound for weight loss
Zepbound, or tirzepatide, is designed for adults and targets two gut hormones, GLP-1 and GIP, to help reduce appetite and control cravings. This dual-action approach often leads to higher average weight loss.
Wegovy for weight loss
Wegovy, or semaglutide, works by activating the GLP-1 hormone only, which still reduces appetite but may not be as effective for weight loss as Zepbound. However, Wegovy is approved for adolescents as young as 12 and has proven cardiovascular benefits.
How Zepbound and Wegovy work in your body
Zepbound and Wegovy help with weight loss by targeting hormones that influence hunger and fullness. Wegovy, as a GLP-1 agonist, mimics a natural hormone that makes you feel full and helps lower food intake. Zepbound goes further by also mimicking GIP, which can boost the weight loss effects of GLP-1.
What to expect if you take Zepbound vs. Wegovy for weight loss
Common side effects of Zepbound and Wegovy
Both medications can cause similar mild side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort, often temporary as your body adjusts.
Serious side effects of Zepbound and Wegovy
Serious side effects may include pancreatitis, thyroid tumors, or allergic reactions. It’s essential to discuss risks with your doctor, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
Can you switch from Zepbound to Wegovy, or vice versa?
Yes, switching is possible and sometimes recommended if one medication doesn’t meet your weight loss needs. However, only one medication should be taken at a time, so consult your doctor to ensure a safe transition.
Key takeaway
Choosing between Zepbound and Wegovy largely depends on your weight loss goals, other health conditions, and age. Zepbound may result in more significant weight loss but isn’t yet approved for heart disease protection or adolescent use. Wegovy offers cardiovascular benefits and can be used by younger individuals. Speak with a healthcare provider to find the best option for your personal health needs.
Zepbound vs. Wegovy for weight loss: 5 differences to consider
1. Zepbound and Wegovy work in similar but slightly different ways for weight loss
Wegovy is a GLP-1 agonist, while Zepbound combines GLP-1 with GIP for potentially more potent effects.
2. Zepbound and Wegovy have different dosage schedules
Wegovy starts at a lower dose and takes longer to reach the maintenance dose, whereas Zepbound ramps up faster.
3. Zepbound may result in greater weight loss compared with Wegovy
In studies, Zepbound showed nearly 21% weight loss at higher doses, compared to Wegovy’s 15%.
4. Wegovy may be a better option if you have heart disease
Wegovy has FDA approval for cardiovascular risk reduction, while Zepbound is still under study for these benefits.
5. Wegovy is approved for use in adolescents, while Zepbound is approved only for adults
If you’re under 18 or considering weight loss for an adolescent, Wegovy may be the preferred option.
FAQs about Zepbound
Q: How do Zepbound's side effects compare with Wegovy’s?
A: Both Zepbound and Wegovy are weight-loss drugs and have similar digestive side effects, like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Both drugs also carry a boxed warning for a potential thyroid cancer risk.
Q: Does Zepbound cause long-term side effects?
A: Long-term side effects haven’t been reported in Zepbound studies. However, talk with your doctor if you’re concerned about the long-term use of the medication.
Q: Can I drink alcohol while on Zepbound?
A: There are no known interactions between alcohol and Zepbound. However, consult your doctor to determine how much alcohol is safe to consume during treatment.
Q: Is Zepbound safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
A: Zepbound isn’t recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus. It’s also not known if it’s safe while breastfeeding. If you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor for alternative weight-loss options.
FAQs about Imbue
Q: What is Imbue?
A: Imbue provides virtual direct-to-consumer weight-loss services, focusing on helping patients achieve their goals through personalized plans, including lifestyle guidance and medication support. Our program includes an initial assessment, regular check-ins, and ongoing support, and emphasizes sustainable lifestyle changes alongside medications like Zepbound and Wegovy for those who qualify.
Q: What is included in Imbue’s weight loss service?
A: Imbue offers a monthly subscription priced at $49.99, which includes personalized support and guidance on weight management, separate from medication costs.
Q: Does Imbue offer medications like Zepbound or Wegovy?
A: Imbue utilizes LillyDirect and NovoCare to offer customers discounted Zepbound and Wegovy, priced from $349 to $499 monthly.
