Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide
A dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist — the first of the co-agonists. A long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist engineered for once-weekly dosing. Side by side: type, evidence tier, receptor, molecular weight, and half-life — the same fields as each monograph, rearranged so the engineering difference is visible.
Tirzepatide | Semaglutide | |
|---|---|---|
| Also known as | Mounjaro, Zepbound | Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus |
| Type | Analog | Analog |
| Evidence | Established | Established |
| Family | Incretins & metabolic | Incretins & metabolic |
| Class | Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist (39 aa, acylated) | GLP-1 receptor agonist (acylated peptide, 31 aa) |
| Receptor | GIP receptor + GLP-1 receptor | GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) |
| Molecular weight | ~4,813.5 Da | ~4,113.6 Da |
| Half-life | ||
| Based on | Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide | Glucagon-like peptide-1 |
Half-life bars are on a logarithmic scale across the molecules shown. Reference values for the native or representative form — educational only, not medical or dosing advice.
Common questions
- What is the difference between Tirzepatide and Semaglutide?
- Tirzepatide is an engineered analog based on Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide; Semaglutide is an engineered analog based on Glucagon-like peptide-1. Tirzepatide signals at GIP receptor + GLP-1 receptor; Semaglutide signals at GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R).
- How do the half-lives of Tirzepatide and Semaglutide compare?
- The reported circulating half-life of Tirzepatide is ~5 days (~120 h); Semaglutide is ~7 days (~165 h). These are reference values for the native or representative form — educational only, not dosing advice.
- Is Tirzepatide the same as Mounjaro?
- Mounjaro, Zepbound are brand names of Tirzepatide. This comparison describes the molecules, not branded products.
Prefer the other order? Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide. Or open the interactive comparison tool to add more molecules.