Zepbound is tirzepatide, not semaglutide. The 2026 FDA prescribing information identifies Zepbound as a tirzepatide product. Tirzepatide activates two receptors, GIP and GLP-1. Semaglutide is a different active ingredient used in medications such as Wegovy and Ozempic.
Zepbound vs. Semaglutide at a Glance
| Medication | Active ingredient | How it works | Related brand names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zepbound | Tirzepatide | Activates GIP and GLP-1 receptors | Zepbound, Mounjaro |
| Wegovy | Semaglutide | Activates the GLP-1 receptor | Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus |
The FDA identifies Zepbound and Mounjaro as tirzepatide products. It identifies Wegovy, Ozempic and Rybelsus as semaglutide products.
What Is the Difference Between Tirzepatide and Semaglutide?
Tirzepatide and semaglutide are different drug ingredients.
- Tirzepatide, the ingredient in Zepbound, acts on the GIP and GLP-1 pathways.
- Semaglutide, the ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic, acts on the GLP-1 receptor.
- Both medications can reduce appetite and food intake.
- They should not be switched or combined without guidance from a healthcare professional.
Is Zepbound Considered a GLP-1 Medication?
Zepbound can be described as a GLP-1 medication because tirzepatide activates the GLP-1 receptor. The more precise classification is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist.
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, while tirzepatide targets both the GIP and GLP-1 pathways.
Is Mounjaro the Same as Zepbound?
Mounjaro and Zepbound contain the same active ingredient, tirzepatide. Their FDA-approved uses are different:
- Mounjaro is approved to help improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes.
- Zepbound is approved for chronic weight management in eligible adults and for certain adults with obesity and moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea.
Mounjaro and Zepbound are separate brand names for tirzepatide products. Do not take both together.
Can You Take Zepbound With Semaglutide?
No, Zepbound should not be combined with semaglutide unless a prescriber specifically instructs you to do so. Zepbound's prescribing information says that combining it with another tirzepatide product or a GLP-1 receptor agonist is not recommended.
Because semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, this applies to Wegovy, Ozempic and other semaglutide products.
Bottom Line
Zepbound contains tirzepatide, while Wegovy and Ozempic contain semaglutide. Tirzepatide activates both GIP and GLP-1 receptors. Semaglutide activates the GLP-1 receptor. Ask your healthcare professional which medication fits your health history, treatment goals and other medicines.