3-way comparison
Compounded Semaglutide vs Wegovy vs Zepbound
Side-by-side breakdown — efficacy, cost, regulatory status, and who each option fits best.
Side-by-side comparison
| Attribute | Compounded Semaglutide | Wegovy | Zepbound |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generic name | semaglutide (compounded) | semaglutide | tirzepatide |
| Drug class | — | — | — |
| Regulatory status | Compounded | FDA approved | FDA approved |
| Manufacturer | Various compounding pharmacies | Novo Nordisk | Eli Lilly |
| Avg retail price | $250/mo | $1349/mo | $1086/mo |
| Without insurance | $99–$350/mo | $1349–$1500/mo | $349–$1086/mo |
| Savings card max | $0/mo | $0/mo | $25/mo |
| Shortage status | not_listed | not_listed | not_listed |
FAQ
What is the difference between Compounded Semaglutide, Wegovy, and Zepbound?
Compounded Semaglutide (semaglutide (compounded)), Wegovy (semaglutide), and Zepbound (tirzepatide) are GLP-1 medications used for weight management or type 2 diabetes. Key differences: Compounded Semaglutide is compounded, Wegovy is FDA-approved, Zepbound is FDA-approved.
Which is most effective for weight loss: Compounded Semaglutide, Wegovy, or Zepbound?
Effectiveness varies by individual. In clinical trials, tirzepatide-based drugs (Mounjaro, Zepbound) produced ~22% average body-weight loss vs ~15% for semaglutide-based (Ozempic, Wegovy). Discuss with your prescriber.
Which is cheapest?
Cash retail price: Compounded Semaglutide $250/mo · Zepbound $1086/mo · Wegovy $1349/mo. Compounded versions through telehealth typically run 60-80% less.
See per-drug deep dives: Compounded Semaglutide review · Wegovy review · Zepbound review
2-way head-to-heads
Drill down into any pair from the three above for deeper side-by-side analysis.
Already on one? Switching guides
Dose conversion + transition timeline for each directional switch.