Peptide Calculators › Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide
Head-to-Head Comparison

Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide

A detailed comparison of the two most popular GLP-1 peptides for weight management

Updated April 2026·5 min read·Reviewed against current published trial and label context
Reviewed April 2026 · Educational comparison only · See editorial policy

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureSemaglutideTirzepatide
Brand NamesOzempic, Wegovy, RybelsusMounjaro, Zepbound
DeveloperNovo NordiskEli Lilly
MechanismGLP-1 only (single agonist)GLP-1 + GIP (dual agonist)
FDA ApprovedYes (diabetes 2017, weight 2021)Yes (diabetes 2022, weight 2023)
Dosing FrequencyOnce weeklyOnce weekly
Starting Dose0.25 mg/week2.5 mg/week
Maximum Dose2.4 mg/week15 mg/week
Dose Escalation5 steps over 16-20 weeks6 steps over 20-24 weeks
Avg Weight Loss (trials)~15-16% body weight~20-22% body weight
Half-Life~7 days~5 days
Common Side EffectsNausea, diarrhea, constipationNausea, diarrhea, decreased appetite
Hair Thinning ReportsLess commonMore commonly reported
Oral Form AvailableYes (Rybelsus)No
Typical Vial Cost (compounded)$30-60 per vial$40-80 per vial

Which One Should You Choose?

Semaglutide and tirzepatide are both injectable peptides used for weight management and blood sugar control, but they work through different mechanisms. Semaglutide activates only the GLP-1 receptor, while tirzepatide activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. This dual-agonist approach appears to produce greater weight reduction in clinical trials.

In the SURMOUNT-5 head-to-head trial, tirzepatide demonstrated statistically superior weight loss compared to semaglutide at maximum doses. However, semaglutide has a longer real-world safety track record and more long-term data available.

Use This Decision Framework

Choose semaglutide if: you want the longest real-world track record, need an oral option, or want the lower-cost entry point.

Choose tirzepatide if: you want the strongest average weight-loss data, have plateaued on semaglutide, or your provider prefers the dual-agonist approach.

Important: Both peptides require medical supervision. This comparison is for educational purposes. Always work with your healthcare provider to determine which option is appropriate for your situation.
For coaches: if you manage semaglutide or tirzepatide clients and need weekly review, adherence, side-effect, nutrition, and training workflows in one place, see PhysiqueOS GLP-1 coaching software.

Need the broader GLP-1 reference set first? Start with the GLP-1 calculator hub, then branch into the individual calculators.

Ready to calculate your dose? Use our semaglutide calculator or tirzepatide calculator.

References

This comparison is educational and should be read with product labeling, current clinical literature, and professional guidance where appropriate.