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Same molecule, different indications

Mounjaro and Zepbound are the same drug — tirzepatide — manufactured by Eli Lilly. The difference is the FDA-approved indication.

DimensionMounjaroZepbound
FDA indicationType 2 diabetesChronic weight management; obstructive sleep apnea with obesity
FDA approval year20222023
Max dose15 mg weekly15 mg weekly
List price~$1,069/mo~$1,086/mo
Vial formatPen onlyPen + single-dose vial (lower cost)
Lilly direct programNoYes — vials at lower cash price via LillyDirect

Why was Zepbound created?

Lilly launched Zepbound as the FDA-approved weight-loss product so insurance coverage and prescribing for obesity could happen on-label. The molecule and dose schedule are identical to Mounjaro.

Which one will my insurance cover?

For Type 2 diabetes patients, Mounjaro is the indicated product and is more likely to be covered. For weight-loss-only patients, Zepbound is the indicated product. Insurance coverage for weight-loss GLP-1s is restrictive in many plans — see our insurance hub.

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