What you’ll learn:
- Tirzepatide often leads to greater weight loss than liraglutide, but both support long-term results when paired with lifestyle changes.
- Liraglutide requires daily injections, while tirzepatide is once-weekly—this difference can impact how easily each fits into your routine.
- Choosing between liraglutide and tirzepatide comes down to lifestyle fit, side effect tolerance, and how your body responds over time.
If you’re thinking about taking medication for weight loss, you’ve probably heard of tirzepatide and liraglutide. These are the active ingredients behind some of the most commonly prescribed drugs for managing weight and type 2 diabetes. You might know them better by their brand names: Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Mounjaro® and Zepbound®, while liraglutide is found in Victoza® and Saxenda®. Liraglutide is also available in generic form, and we’ll talk about what that means.
All of these medications are FDA-approved for specific uses, and some are prescribed off-label for others. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Tirzepatide:
- Mounjaro®: Approved for type 2 diabetes; often used off-label for weight loss
- Zepbound®: Approved for weight loss and to help treat obstructive sleep apnea
Liraglutide
- Victoza®: Approved to treat type 2 diabetes (for adults and kids 10+), and may help reduce the risk of heart disease
- Saxenda®: Approved for weight management in adults and teens, and may also help with heart health
- Generic liraglutide: Approved for type 2 diabetes (ages 10+), with similar heart health benefits
While these medications share the same big goals—weight loss, blood sugar control, and better metabolic health—they’re not identical. They differ in how often they’re taken, how they work in your body, how much they cost, and what kind of results people typically see.
We’ll walk through how they work, what makes them similar or different, and what to expect, so you can talk with your doctor about whether one could be right for you..
Liraglutide vs. tirzepatide: How do they work?
Liraglutide and tirzepatide are both considered GLP-1 medications, which means they mimic the GLP-1 hormone. By doing this, they bind to GLP-1 receptors in your stomach, digestive system, and brain to reduce appetite, slow digestion, and regulate blood sugar. But there are some differences in how they work:
- Liraglutide is solely a GLP-1 receptor agonist, and it doesn’t last as long in the body as tirzepatide medications.
- Tirzepatide also targets a second hormone receptor, GIP, which may lead to more blood sugar control and greater weight loss.
Here’s a bit more info. Both GLP-1 and GIP are part of your body’s natural response to food. They help trigger insulin, slow down how fast your stomach empties, and tell your brain you’ve had enough to eat. Medications like liraglutide and tirzepatide help make those signals stronger, which may enhance fat burning and improve how your body manages blood sugar.
Liraglutide vs. tirzepatide: What are the similarities?
Liraglutide and tirzepatide both help manage weight and blood sugar by working with your body’s natural hormone systems, so it’s no surprise they share similarities. Here’s what they have in common:
- They’re hormone-based medications. Both mimic gut hormones that help regulate appetite, digestion, and insulin response, helping reduce hunger and improve glucose control.
- Both come in injectable forms. All approved versions of liraglutide and tirzepatide are taken as subcutaneous injections—typically in the thigh, upper arm, or stomach. There aren’t any oral options for either medication at this time.
- They require step-up dosing. Like other GLP-1 medications, both start at a lower dose and gradually increase over time—a process called titration. This slow-and-steady approach helps minimize side effects like nausea and gives your body time to adjust. Not everyone needs the highest dose to see results; your provider may recommend staying at a lower dose if it’s working well.
- They have similar side effects. The most commonly reported are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, especially in the early weeks or after a dose increase.
- Insurance coverage is rare for weight loss. While both drugs may be covered when prescribed for type 2 diabetes, coverage is less common when they’re used for weight loss alone.
Liraglutide vs. tirzepatide: What are the differences?
The biggest distinction is how they’re taken—liraglutide requires a daily injection, while tirzepatide is once-weekly. Effectiveness, cost, and insurance coverage are also key factors to consider. Here’s a quick comparison to help you weigh your options:
- Daily vs. weekly injections: One of the biggest differences between liraglutide and tirzepatide is how often they’re taken. All versions of liraglutide are daily injections, while all tirzepatide medications are taken once a week. That difference in dosing schedule can be a big deal, especially if you don’t want to give yourself daily injections or have a busy routine that prevents it.
- Liraglutide is available as a generic: In 2024, the first generic version of liraglutide went on the market, making it the first GLP-1 medication available in generic form in the U.S. This is important because GLP-1 medications can be very expensive, and the lack of generic options keeps the prices high. While this version isn’t FDA-approved for weight loss, some providers may still prescribe it off-label.
Liraglutide vs. tirzepatide: Which is better for weight loss?
Both liraglutide and tirzepatide can be used for long-term weight loss alongside healthy habits. Tirzepatide tends to deliver more significant weight loss in clinical trials, especially at higher doses. Liraglutide is generally less effective for weight loss but may still be a good fit depending on your health goals, how well you tolerate it, or your insurance and budget.
Liraglutide vs. tirzepatide: How much weight can you lose?
Both can help you lose weight, but clinical trials show a noticeable difference in average weight loss after 12 months of treatment. These results are based on the highest approved doses for each medication:
- Liraglutide (3 mg): People lost an average of 9% of their body weight. For someone who starts at 250 pounds, that’s about 22.5 pounds.
- Tirzepatide (15 mg): People lost an average of 21% of their body weight. For someone who starts at 250 pounds, that’s about 50 pounds.
Again, these numbers are averages. Some people lost more, while others lost less. Lifestyle habits and consistency will play a big role in weight loss.
Liraglutide vs. tirzepatide: When will I see weight loss results?
Some people begin to see weight changes within the first month of starting these GLP-1 medications, but more noticeable results typically take a bit more time. Here’s what studies say you can expect in terms of the average percentage of body weight lost over time:
After 3 months:
- Liraglutide: 6%
- Tirzepatide: 8%
After 6 months:
- Liraglutide: 8%
- Tirzepatide: 15%
After 9 months:
- Liraglutide: 9%
- Tirzepatide: 18%
After 1 year:
- Liraglutide: 9%
- Tirzepatide: 21%
Who can take liraglutide or tirzepatide for weight loss?
Only a healthcare provider or a Noom Med clinician can decide if these medications are right for you. Eligibility is generally based on your BMI and whether you have health conditions related to excess weight. To use liraglutide or tirzepatide for weight loss, you typically need to have a:
- BMI of 30 or higher
or
- BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol
Who shouldn’t take liraglutide or tirzepatide?
Liraglutide and tirzepatide are not right for everyone, particularly if you have a personal or family history of the following conditions:
- You or a family member has had medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
- You have had a serious allergic reaction to liraglutide, tirzepatide, or any of their ingredients.
Before starting liraglutide or tirzepatide, let your provider know if you:
- Have or have had pancreatitis or gallbladder disease, including gallstones.
- Have type 2 diabetes with a history of diabetic retinopathy.
- Have or have had depression, suicidal thoughts, or other mental health concerns.
You shouldn’t take liraglutide or tirzepatide if you are
- Pregnant or planning to become pregnant
- Breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed
For more detailed safety information, refer to the safety information for Victoza®, Saxenda®, Mounjaro®, and Zepbound® or consult a healthcare provider.
Can you switch between liraglutide and tirzepatide?
Yes, switching between liraglutide and tirzepatide is possible, but it should always be done under the supervision of a healthcare provider. These medications work differently in the body and come with their own dosing schedules and side effect profiles, so a smooth transition requires careful planning.
Why do people switch between liraglutide and tirzepatide?
People may choose to switch from one medication to the other for a few different reasons:
- Weight loss expectations – If weight loss has stalled or hasn’t met expectations, a switch might help. Tirzepatide may lead to more significant weight loss for some people compared to liraglutide, but personal response can vary.
- Tolerability – Both medications can cause nausea, GI discomfort, or fatigue, but some people tolerate one better than the other.
- Insurance and cost – Budget can be a major factor. Some insurance plans may cover one but not the other, making cost and availability a common reason for switching.
How to switch safely between liraglutide and tirzepatide
These medications are not dose-equivalent, and your provider will consider your current dose, response, and side effects before deciding how to start the other.
If you take liraglutide or tirzepatide to lose weight, will you need to keep taking them forever?
Both liraglutide and tirzepatide are designed for long-term use, but that doesn’t mean you’ll need them forever. How long you stay on medication depends on your progress, side effects, and overall goals. You’ll see the best results when paired with lasting changes to how you eat—using a plan like Noom can help build those habits.
Will you regain weight after stopping?
These medications can help with weight loss, but they don’t permanently change how your body manages weight. If you stop taking them, you might notice increased hunger or cravings, which can lead to weight regain, especially without healthy habits in place. Some people keep the weight off, while others find it more difficult without continued support.
Can you restart liraglutide or tirzepatide?
Yes, you can restart liraglutide or tirzepatide. Talk to your provider about whether restarting or trying a lower maintenance dose makes sense for you. These medications work best when paired with habits you can stick with for the long run.
Liraglutide vs. Tirzepatide: Dosage and administration
Dosing is one of the biggest differences between these two medications: Liraglutide is injected daily, while tirzepatide is injected once a week. For many people, that difference alone can shape which medication feels more sustainable over time.
When it comes to how they are injected, the process is similar. You will inject just under the skin of the thigh, stomach, or upper arm. Most versions come in prefilled pens designed to deliver the correct dose with a single click.
Zepbound® also offers a vial-and-syringe version, which requires you to draw up your own dose before injecting. The vial and syringe option is more affordable without insurance than the pen. But the vial option is available for doses up to 10 mg; beyond that, you’ll need to switch to the pen.
Since both medications follow a gradual dose-increase schedule, it’s important to follow your provider’s guidance and keep each dose properly refrigerated until use.
Here’s a quick look at the available doses for each medication:
| Brand name | Active ingredient | Available doses | How it’s taken |
|---|---|---|---|
| Victoza® | Liraglutide | 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg | Daily injection |
| Saxenda® | Liraglutide | 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg, 2.4 mg, 3 mg | Daily injection |
| Generic liraglutide | Liraglutide | 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg | Daily injection |
| Mounjaro® | Tirzepatide | 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg | Weekly injection |
| Zepbound® | Tirzepatide | 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg (pens and vials) 12.5 mg, 15 mg (pens only) | Weekly injection |
Liraglutide vs. Tirzepatide: Costs
One of the biggest hurdles with GLP-1 medications is often the cost. The price tag can be steep, especially without insurance. While savings programs and insurance plans can sometimes help offset the cost, many people still pay hundreds (or even over $1,000) each month.
It’s important to explore manufacturer savings programs, check your insurance coverage, and compare prices at different pharmacies. Here’s how these medications compare:
Liraglutide
| Brand name | Available dosages | Cost (monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| Victoza® | 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg | $544 (2-pen) $815 (3-pen) Note: Monthly cost depends on your daily dose. Each pen contains 18 mg of liraglutide. Learn more about the cost of Victoza®. |
Saxenda® | 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg, 2.4 mg, 3 mg | $1,349 Learn more about the cost of Saxenda® |
Generic liraglutide | 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg | $470 (2-pen), $700 (3-pen) Note: Monthly cost depends on your daily dose. Each pen contains 18 mg of liraglutide. |
Tirzepatide
| Brand name | Available dosages | Cost (monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| Mounjaro® | 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg | $1,080 Learn more about the cost of Mounjaro®. |
| Zepbound® | 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg (pens and vials)12.5 mg, 15 mg (pens only) | $1,087 (pens) $349 (2.5 mg), $499 (5 mg, 7.5 mg,10 mg) (vials) Learn more about the cost of Zepbound®. |
Does insurance cover liraglutide or tirzepatide for weight loss?
Insurance coverage for weight loss medications like liraglutide and tirzepatide can be limited. Coverage often depends on the prescribed use—medications prescribed for type 2 diabetes are more likely to be covered than those prescribed for weight loss.
- Victoza® and Mounjaro® may be covered under some plans when prescribed for type 2 diabetes, but they’re rarely approved for weight loss treatment.
- Saxenda® and Zepbound® are FDA-approved for weight loss, but many insurance plans exclude weight loss drugs from coverage.
- Generic liraglutide may be covered for type 2 diabetes, similar to Victoza®, but typically not when prescribed off-label for weight loss.
What about Medicare?
Medicare Part D does not cover medications for weight loss, including Saxenda® and Zepbound®. If Victoza®, Mounjaro®, or generic liraglutide are prescribed for type 2 diabetes, they may be covered.
It’s best to check directly with your insurance or Medicare provider for the most up-to-date information.
Liraglutide vs. tirzepatide: Side effects and safety
GLP-1 medications like liraglutide and tirzepatide can cause side effects, especially when starting or adjusting your dose. Because these medications are similar, the side effects are too, but the frequency can vary with dose and medication. Most side effects are mild and temporary. Here’s what to know before getting started.
Common side effects
Most people starting liraglutide or tirzepatide experience mild to moderate side effects, especially during the first few weeks or when increasing their dose. These side effects are usually temporary and often improve as your body adjusts.
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Dyspepsia
- Fatigue
The table below shows in detail how often these side effects were reported at higher doses of liraglutide and tirzepatide, according to clinical studies. Not everyone reaches these doses, but they give a general idea of what to expect.
| Side effects | Liraglutide (3 mg) | Tirzepatide (15 mg) |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea | 40% | 31% |
| Vomiting | 16% | 12% |
| Diarrhea | 21% | 23% |
| Constipation | 20% | 12% |
| Dyspepsia | 10% | 11% |
| Fatigue | 8% | 5% |
Eating smaller meals, avoiding heavy or greasy foods, staying well-hydrated, and remaining active can help manage these symptoms.
For more information, check out: GLP-1 side effects: What to expect & how to manage them.
Serious side effects and warnings
Liraglutide and tirzepatide are generally safe when used as prescribed, but they can come with serious but rare risks. Always follow your provider’s guidance and speak up if something doesn’t feel right.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Pancreatitis: Symptoms include severe abdominal pain that radiates to your back, with or without vomiting.
- Vision changes: If you notice any sudden changes in your vision, get immediate medical attention.
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): Low blood sugar is most likely in people who are also taking medications for diabetes. Symptoms include dizziness, shakiness, blurred vision, and a fast heartbeat.
- Kidney problems: Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting can cause dehydration and worsen kidney issues. Go to the ER if you experience decreased urination, swelling in the ankles or legs, fatigue, or shortness of breath.
- Gallbladder problems: Symptoms include upper abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, or clay-colored stools.
- Allergic reaction: Symptoms include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or a rapid heartbeat. Get immediate medical attention if you’re having an allergic reaction.
- Thyroid tumors or cancer: Be alert for a lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath. (This connection has only been established in animal studies.)
For full safety details, check the prescribing information for Saxenda®, Victoza®, Mounjaro®, and Zepbound®.
Less common side effects of liraglutide and tirzepatide
Some effects linked to GLP-1 medications like liraglutide or tirzepatide may stem from rapid weight loss rather than the medication itself:
- Muscle loss: Can happen with rapid weight loss, especially without enough protein or strength training. Focus on resistance workouts and protein-rich meals.
- Hair thinning: Rapid weight loss can affect hair growth. The FDA is reviewing reports, but no direct link to GLP-1s has been confirmed. Eating a balanced diet may help.
- Feeling cold: Lower body weight and calories can affect temperature regulation. Staying active, layering up, and eating nutrient-dense foods can help.
If these symptoms come up, talk to your provider to rule out other causes.
Liraglutide vs. tirzepatide: Which is right for me?
Choosing between liraglutide and tirzepatide often comes down to a mix of cost, effectiveness, and how well you tolerate the medication. If you’re trying to decide between liraglutide and tirzepatide, this side-by-side look at everything discussed above can help:
| Active ingredient | Liraglutide | Tirzepatide |
|---|---|---|
| Brand names and uses | Victoza®: Type 2 diabetes (off-label for weight loss) and to prevent heart disease Saxenda®: Weight loss and to prevent heart disease Generic liraglutide: Type 2 diabetes (off-label for weight loss) | Mounjaro®: Type 2 diabetes (off-label for weight loss) Zepbound®: Weight loss and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) |
| Manufacturer | Victoza® and Saxenda®: Novo Nordisk Generic liraglutide: Teva Pharmaceuticals | Eli Lilly |
| Available doses | Victoza®: 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg Saxenda®: 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg, 2.4 mg, 3 mg Generic liraglutide: 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg | Mounjaro®: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg Zepbound®: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg (pens and vials)12.5 mg, 15 mg (pens only) |
| How it’s taken | Daily injection | Weekly injection |
| Effectiveness | 9% average body weight loss after 12 months (3.0 mg dose) | 20% average body weight loss after 12 months (15 mg dose) |
| Cost monthly | Victoza®: $544 (2-pen), $815 (3-pen) Saxenda®: $1,349 Generic liraglutide: $470 (2-pen), $700 (3-pen) | Mounjaro®: $1,080 Zepbound®: $1,087 (pens) $349 (2.5 mg), $499 (5 mg, 7.5 mg,10 mg) (vials) |
| Insurance coverage | Victoza®: Occasionally covered for type 2 diabetes, rarely for weight loss Saxenda®: Rarely covered for weight loss Generic liraglutide: Occasionally covered for type 2 diabetes, rarely for weight loss | Mounjaro®: Occasionally covered for type 2 diabetes, rarely for weight loss Zepbound®: Rarely covered for weight loss. |
| Side effects | Higher rates across most side effects compared to tirzepatide; nausea and constipation are especially common. Serious side effects are similar across both medications. | Slightly lower nausea and vomiting rates than liraglutide; diarrhea and dyspepsia rates are similar. Serious side effects are similar across both medications. |
What works best will depend on your routine, health history, and what kind of support you need. Use this overview as a starting point for a deeper conversation with your provider.
Alternatives to liraglutide and tirzepatide
If liraglutide or tirzepatide doesn’t quite meet your needs, there are other GLP-1 options and weight loss tools to consider. These alternatives might align better with your health goals, side effect tolerance, or insurance coverage:
| Medication | Brand names and uses | Cost per month (without insurance) | Effectiveness | How it’s taken |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide – GLP-1 receptor agonist | Ozempic®: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss Wegovy®: weight loss and heart disease Rybelsus®: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss | Ozempic®: $998 Learn more Wegovy®: $1,350 $499 (NovoCare Pharmacy) Learn more Rybelsus®: $998 Learn more | Ozempic®/Wegovy® People lost an average of 15% of body weight in 68 weeks with injectable semaglutide. Rybelsus®: People lost about 4% of their body weight. | Ozempic®/Wegovy®: Weekly injection Rybelsus®: Daily pill |
| Dulaglutide – GLP-1 receptor agonist | Trulicity®: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss | $987 Learn more. | People lost an average of 3-5% of body weight in 36 weeks. | Weekly injection |
Other medications
Beyond GLP-1s, there are other prescription options that can support weight loss in different ways. The table below outlines how these alternatives compare.
| Medication | Brand names | Cost per month (without insurance) | Effectiveness | How it’s taken |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metformin (off-label weight loss) | Glucophage®, Fortamet®, Glumetza® | Generic: $4–$15 Brand name: $100–$500+ Learn more. | People lost an average of about 6% of their body weight over six months while taking metformin. | Pill taken up to two times daily |
| Phentermine | Lomaira®, Adipex-P® | $27-$100 | About 80% of people with a BMI of 30 or more lost at least 5% of their body weight in 6 months. | Daily pill |
| Diethylpropion | Tenuate®, Tenuate Dospan® | $40-$85 | People lost an average of 10% of their body weight in 6 months. | Pill taken one to three times daily |
| Naltrexone and bupropion | Contrave® | $600-$800 CurAccess™: $99 Learn more. | People lost an average of 7 to 8% of their body weight in a year. | Pill taken up to twice daily |
| Orlistat | Xenical®, Alli® | $50-$800 | People in a study lost about 10% of body weight after taking Orlistat for 1 year. | Pill taken three times daily with meals. |
Liraglutide vs. tirzepatide: Finding the right fit for weight loss
Liraglutide and tirzepatide can both offer meaningful support for weight loss, but they take different routes to get there. Your ideal option depends on how your body responds, what kind of schedule works for you, and what fits within your budget.
If losing weight is your goal, tirzepatide may offer more weight loss on average, but some people prefer liraglutide for various reasons. What matters most is finding something that works with your body.
Need more guidance? If you qualify for Noom Med, you’ll be connected with a clinician who can help decide if a medication is right for you and prescribe it if needed. You’ll also get on-demand medical guidance, coaching, and access to Noom’s tools and trackers to work toward your goals.
Note: Victoza®, Mounjaro®, Ozempic®, Rybelsus®, Trulicity®, and metformin are not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.
