Semaglutide and tirzepatide injections — the once-weekly GLP-1 shots behind Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound. Compare the two, see real results, and find licensed weight-loss clinics near you ranked by Google rating.
Weight loss shots are once-weekly GLP-1 injections that reduce appetite, slow how fast your stomach empties and signal fullness to the brain. The two main molecules are semaglutide (the drug in Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (the drug in Mounjaro and Zepbound). Both are given as a small subcutaneous injection. Brand-name pens are FDA-approved; compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide are a lower-cost cash-pay option prescribed through licensed telehealth providers and clinics.
Both are highly effective, but they differ. Semaglutide activates one gut-hormone receptor (GLP-1) and produced about 15% average body-weight loss in trials. Tirzepatide activates two receptors (GLP-1 and GIP) and produced up to ~22.5% — the most of any weight-loss injection studied to date. Tirzepatide tends to cost more. Your provider helps choose based on your medical history, tolerance and budget. The comparison table on this page breaks down the differences.
Most people see steady, gradual loss rather than a sudden drop. In clinical trials, semaglutide patients lost roughly 5–10% of body weight by three months and about 15% by 68 weeks; tirzepatide patients reached ~12% by 28 weeks and up to ~22.5% by 72 weeks on the highest dose. Results depend on diet, activity and starting weight — the shots work best alongside lifestyle changes, and providers start you at a low dose to limit nausea.
Brand-name and compounded options, side by side
| Shot | Molecule | Approved for | Frequency | Typical price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ozempic | Semaglutide | Type 2 diabetes (off-label weight loss) | Once weekly | $950–$1,350/mo |
| Wegovy | Semaglutide | Chronic weight management | Once weekly | $1,300–$1,400/mo |
| Mounjaro | Tirzepatide | Type 2 diabetes (off-label weight loss) | Once weekly | $1,000–$1,200/mo |
| Zepbound | Tirzepatide | Chronic weight management | Once weekly | $1,000–$1,060/mo |
| Compounded | Semaglutide / Tirzepatide | Cash-pay telehealth option | Once weekly | $199–$499/mo |
Typical U.S. cash-pay ranges without insurance; savings cards and coverage can lower brand-name costs.
Compare by speed, price and how you prefer to be seen
Online consultation with a licensed provider, medication shipped to your door. Fastest cash-pay route, no insurance needed.
In-person medical weight loss clinics near you — physician oversight, injections on site, personalized follow-up.
Brand-name Ozempic/Wegovy/Mounjaro/Zepbound with a prescription, filled at your pharmacy. Cheapest if covered.
Three simple steps, online or at a local clinic
Quick health assessment (BMI 27+). A licensed provider confirms if a GLP-1 is right for you.
Choose a local clinic for in-person care, or an online provider who ships to your door.
Begin your once-weekly injection at a low dose, with provider follow-up as you progress.
Coverage and cash-pay options
Many commercial plans cover GLP-1 therapy for eligible patients. Your provider can submit prior authorization for brand-name options.
GLP-1 medication prescribed by a licensed provider is an eligible HSA/FSA expense.
Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly offer savings cards for commercially insured patients who meet eligibility requirements.
Compounded semaglutide/tirzepatide via telehealth offers the lowest cash-pay entry point with no insurance.
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