Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) and semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) are the two most-prescribed weight-management medicines in Australia. Both require an AHPRA-registered Australian doctor's prescription after clinical assessment.
Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide — head to head
| Attribute | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Dual GIP + GLP-1 receptor agonist | Single GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Average weight loss (72w trials) | ~20–22% at 15 mg | ~14–17% at 2.4 mg |
| Branded products (AU) | Mounjaro (ARTG) | Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus (ARTG) |
| AUD cost / month (2026) | ~$400–$650 (Mounjaro) | ~$300–$520 (Ozempic/Wegovy private) |
| PBS for weight management | No | No |
| Side-effect profile | GI (nausea, reflux) during titration | GI (nausea, reflux) during titration |
Verdict
Tirzepatide tends to produce more weight loss at comparable doses but is more expensive. Semaglutide has a longer clinical track record. Ozempic supply for non-diabetic weight loss is constrained; Wegovy is the on-label semaglutide weight-loss product.
Frequently asked questions
- Is tirzepatide more effective than semaglutide?
- Cross-trial data consistently shows tirzepatide 15 mg produces greater average weight loss (~20–22%) than semaglutide 2.4 mg (~14–17%) over ~72 weeks. Individual response varies widely.
- Which is cheaper in Australia?
- Semaglutide is generally cheaper as a private script — Wegovy around $460–$520/month versus Mounjaro $400–$650/month, depending on dose. Neither is PBS-subsidised for weight management.
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