Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide: Which Saves You More Money?
On paper, semaglutide is cheaper — $99/month vs $133/month at the cheapest providers. But tirzepatide produces roughly 50% more weight loss in clinical trials. When you factor in cost-per-pound-lost and total treatment duration, the picture changes.
Clinical weight loss data
In the landmark STEP and SURMOUNT clinical trials, participants on semaglutide (Wegovy 2.4mg) lost an average of 14.9% of body weight over 68 weeks. Participants on tirzepatide (Zepbound 15mg) lost an average of 22.5% over 72 weeks. A newer high-dose Wegovy HD (7.2mg) produced about 21% weight loss, narrowing the gap. These results were with brand-name medications in controlled trial settings — compounded versions haven't been tested head-to-head.
Cost-per-pound analysis
For a 200-pound patient over 12 months:
| Metric | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide |
|---|---|---|
| Expected weight loss | ~30 lbs (15%) | ~45 lbs (22.5%) |
| Cheapest monthly (GobyMeds) | $99 | $133 |
| 12-month cost | $1,188 | $1,596 |
| Cost per pound lost | ~$40/lb | ~$35/lb |
Despite the higher monthly cost, tirzepatide can actually be more cost-effective per pound lost due to its greater efficacy. However, these are population averages — individual response varies significantly, and some patients respond better to semaglutide than tirzepatide.
Our recommendation
Start with compounded semaglutide to test your GLP-1 response at the lowest possible cost ($99/mo with GobyMeds). If you plateau after 3–4 months at therapeutic doses, switch to tirzepatide. This is the approach many telehealth clinicians recommend, and it avoids spending more upfront on tirzepatide if semaglutide alone achieves your goals.
GobyMedsStart Here
Start with sema, switch to tirz if needed. Both available at the lowest prices on our board. Code x7X72r saves $25.
Gala GLP-1Tirz Value Pick
If you know you want tirzepatide and want flat pricing at every dose, Gala locks your rate regardless of titration. No price surprises at higher doses.
⚕️ FDA Notice: Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. They are prepared by licensed compounding pharmacies using FDA-approved active ingredients but are not individually reviewed by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or quality. Always consult a licensed clinician before starting any GLP-1 therapy.