Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide: Key Differences
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are prescription injectable medications that may be considered for weight management in certain patients when clinically appropriate. They are not appropriate for everyone, and the right treatment decision depends on a licensed provider's review of a patient's health history, current medications, risk factors, and care goals.
Fig helps eligible adults complete an online health assessment and connect with a licensed medical provider for review. Medication is not automatic. If treatment is appropriate, a provider may prescribe a personalized plan, which may include a compounded option through pharmacy partners when clinically appropriate.
You won't be charged until you're approved.
Quick comparison
| Topic | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide |
|---|---|---|
| Medication class | Incretin mimetic (GLP-1 receptor agonist) | Incretin mimetic (dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist) |
| How it may work | May help the pancreas release insulin when blood sugar is high, slow stomach emptying, decrease appetite, and support weight management in certain patients | May help the pancreas release insulin when blood sugar is high, slow stomach emptying, decrease appetite, and support weight management in certain patients |
| Dosing rhythm | Once-weekly injection when used as directed | Once-weekly injection when used as directed |
| Provider review required | Yes — a provider should review medical history, medications, allergies, and risk factors before prescribing | Yes — a provider should review medical history, medications, allergies, and risk factors before prescribing |
| Compounded option at Fig | Compounded semaglutide may be available when a licensed provider determines it is clinically appropriate | Compounded tirzepatide may be available when a licensed provider determines it is clinically appropriate |
| Starting price at Fig | From $145/mo on a 6-month plan | From $233/mo on a 6-month plan |
What semaglutide is
Semaglutide is a prescription injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist. It may assist with weight management in certain people who are obese or overweight and have weight-related medical problems, when prescribed by a licensed provider and used with appropriate monitoring. It is not a fit for every patient, and a provider should review relevant medical history and safety factors before deciding whether treatment is appropriate.
For patients researching Fig specifically, full details are available on the Compounded Semaglutide Online page, including how Fig's process works, who may not be a good fit, and what the eligibility assessment involves.
What tirzepatide is
Tirzepatide is a prescription injectable dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist. It may assist with weight management in certain people who are obese or overweight and have weight-related medical problems, when prescribed by a licensed provider and used with appropriate monitoring. Like any prescription medication, tirzepatide requires individualized provider review before a treatment decision is made.
For patients researching Fig specifically, full details are available on the Compounded Tirzepatide Online page, including how Fig's process works, who may not be a good fit, and what the eligibility assessment involves.
Is one better than the other?
There is no single answer that applies to every patient. A medication that may be appropriate for one person may not be appropriate for another because safety factors, medical history, medication interactions, pregnancy or breastfeeding status, tolerability, and provider judgment all matter.
Fig's role is to help eligible adults complete an online assessment and connect with a licensed provider for review. The provider determines whether treatment is appropriate and, if so, what treatment plan may fit the individual patient's needs.
"Compounded drugs are not FDA-approved. This means that FDA does not verify the safety, effectiveness or quality of compounded drugs before they are marketed."
— U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationWhat to know about compounded options
Compounded medications are different from FDA-approved drugs. FDA states that compounded drugs are not FDA-approved, which means FDA does not verify their safety, effectiveness, or quality before they are marketed.
Compounded semaglutide or compounded tirzepatide should be used only when prescribed by a licensed provider and when clinically appropriate for an individual patient. Fig's online process is designed to collect relevant health information before any treatment decision is made.
Fig's pricing for both options is published transparently on the Pricing page. There is no membership fee, no separate consultation fee, and shipping is included at no extra charge.
Safety considerations before starting
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are not appropriate for everyone. Patients should share complete and accurate information during the health assessment, including current medications, allergies, prior medication reactions, pregnancy or breastfeeding status, gastrointestinal history, gallbladder, pancreas or kidney history, diabetes history, and relevant personal or family medical history.
Possible side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach discomfort, appetite changes, or other symptoms. Serious side effects can occur. Patients should read all safety information, follow provider instructions, and seek medical care when needed.
Fig is not for emergencies. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call emergency services or seek immediate medical attention.
How Fig's online review process works
You start by completing Fig's free online health assessment. A licensed medical provider reviews your information before any medication decision is made. If treatment is appropriate, the provider may prescribe a personalized plan. If prescribed, medication and supplies may be shipped discreetly to your door, and Fig provides ongoing support during the treatment experience.
More background on Fig's approach is available on the Fig Facts page.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide?
Both are prescription injectable medications used in certain clinical contexts, but they are different medications. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist; tirzepatide acts on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. A licensed provider should determine which option, if any, is appropriate based on a patient's medical history, current medications, risk factors, and care goals.
Can I choose semaglutide or tirzepatide myself?
You can discuss your preferences and history during the assessment, but medication is not automatic. A licensed provider must review your information and determine whether treatment is appropriate.
Are compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide FDA-approved?
No. FDA states that compounded drugs are not FDA-approved and that FDA does not verify their safety, effectiveness, or quality before they are marketed. Compounded medications are prepared by licensed compounding pharmacies and are different from FDA-approved brand-name products.
How much does semaglutide or tirzepatide cost at Fig?
Compounded semaglutide plans start at $145/mo on a 6-month plan ($179/mo monthly). Compounded tirzepatide plans start at $233/mo on a 6-month plan ($279/mo monthly). There is no membership fee, the consultation is free, and shipping is included. Full details are on the Pricing page.
Does Fig require insurance?
No. Fig is designed so patients can begin the online eligibility process without insurance. Treatment is not guaranteed and depends on licensed provider review.
Is this page medical advice?
No. This page is informational only and does not replace medical advice. A licensed provider should review your health information before any treatment decision is made.
Start with an eligibility check
If you want to learn whether Fig may be appropriate for you, start with the online assessment. A licensed medical provider reviews your information before any treatment decision is made. You won't be charged until you're approved.
Free consultation · Free shipping · No membership fee · Cancel anytime