GLP-1 Comparison

Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide: What you should know

An honest comparison of the two most effective GLP-1 medications for weight loss, based on published clinical trial data.

Side-by-side comparison

Both medications are GLP-1 receptor agonists used for weight management and type 2 diabetes. Here is how they compare on the key factors.

Important context: These trials had different populations, durations, and designs. A direct comparison between the two has limitations. Both medications are significantly more effective than placebo. Individual results vary based on dose, adherence, diet, and activity.
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy)
Mechanism Dual GIP + GLP-1 receptor agonist GLP-1 receptor agonist only
Average weight loss Up to 22.5% of body weight SURMOUNT-1, NEJM 2022 Up to 14.9% of body weight STEP 1, NEJM 2021
Administration Weekly subcutaneous injection Weekly subcutaneous injection
Starting dose 2.5 mg 0.25 mg
Dose range 2.5 mg – 15 mg 0.25 mg – 2.4 mg
Manufacturer Eli Lilly Novo Nordisk
Common side effects Nausea, diarrhoea, reduced appetite Nausea, diarrhoea, reduced appetite
Approved for Type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro); weight management in some regions Type 2 diabetes (Ozempic); weight management (Wegovy)

Why we chose Tirzepatide

Semaglutide is an effective medication. Our decision to focus on Tirzepatide is a product decision based on evidence, focus, and quality control.

Dual mechanism, not single

Tirzepatide activates two receptors: GIP and GLP-1. GLP-1 slows gastric emptying and reduces appetite. GIP improves insulin sensitivity and may enhance fat metabolism. Together, these two pathways produce a stronger combined effect on weight than GLP-1 alone.

Higher average weight loss in trials

In the SURMOUNT-1 trial (Jastreboff et al., NEJM 2022), participants on the highest Tirzepatide dose lost up to 22.5% of body weight over 72 weeks. In the STEP 1 trial for semaglutide, the figure was up to 14.9% over 68 weeks. Individual results vary, but the published data favours Tirzepatide on average.

One medication, tighter quality control

By focusing on a single medication, we can build tighter review protocols, a single dose ladder, and more consistent onboarding and support. One product means every process is optimised for that product specifically.

What the evidence says

Published trial data from the two largest studies on each medication. Both are peer-reviewed and published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Tirzepatide

SURMOUNT-1 Trial

22.5%

Participants on the highest dose (15 mg) lost up to 22.5% of body weight over 72 weeks. The trial enrolled 2,539 adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition.

Jastreboff et al., New England Journal of Medicine, 2022
Semaglutide

STEP 1 Trial

14.9%

Participants on the 2.4 mg dose lost up to 14.9% of body weight over 68 weeks. The trial enrolled 1,961 adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related comorbidity.

Wilding et al., New England Journal of Medicine, 2021

Common questions

Is Tirzepatide better than Ozempic?
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Published trial data shows higher average weight loss with Tirzepatide, but individual results vary significantly. What is "better" depends on your body, your tolerance, and your goals. Both are effective, evidence-based GLP-1 medications. We present the data and let you decide.

Can I switch from Semaglutide to Tirzepatide?
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Yes, with care team review. If you have previous GLP-1 experience, this is assessed during your intake. Your starting dose and titration schedule may be adjusted based on your prior treatment history, tolerance, and response.

Why does Second Cure not offer Semaglutide?
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Focus. One medication, one dose ladder, tighter review, and better support. By concentrating on Tirzepatide, every part of our process — from assessment to onboarding to dose progression — is built specifically for this treatment. That focus translates to higher quality at every step.

Are the side effects different?
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The side-effect profiles are similar. Nausea is common with both medications, especially during dose escalation, and usually settles within the first few weeks. Tirzepatide users report similar gastrointestinal side effects to semaglutide users. Both medications carry a boxed warning regarding thyroid C-cell tumours observed in animal studies.

Ready to start with Tirzepatide?

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