Tirzepatide is the most effective weight loss medication available. The clinical data speaks for itself—it outperforms every other GLP-1 in head-to-head trials. The only question is where to get it affordably.
The Weight Loss Data
SURMOUNT clinical trials established tirzepatide as the weight loss leader:
22.5%
Avg weight loss (SURMOUNT-1)
96%+
Achieved ≥5% loss
25.3%
At 88 weeks (SURMOUNT-4)
20.2%
vs 13.7% semaglutide
The SURMOUNT-5 head-to-head trial confirmed what many suspected: tirzepatide's dual GIP/GLP-1 mechanism produces significantly better results than semaglutide alone. Participants lost 20.2% vs 13.7% on semaglutide—a 47% relative improvement.
Best Tirzepatide Providers for Weight Loss
Here are verified providers offering tirzepatide for weight loss, ranked by value:
SkinnyRx
Compounded GLP-1 medications
$179-$300
per month
No sign-up fee. HSA/FSA accepted. Fast telehealth consultations.
Check Eligibility →Elevate Health
Medical weight loss program
From $199
per month
Comprehensive weight management with provider support.
Get Started →TMates GLP-1
Telehealth GLP-1 prescriptions
Competitive
pricing
Fast consultations. Personalized dosing plans.
Learn More →For FDA-approved brand Zepbound, LillyDirect offers self-pay vials starting at $299/month (2.5mg) up to $449/month for maintenance doses.
Tirzepatide Dosing for Weight Loss
Standard titration for weight loss typically follows this schedule:
| Weeks | Dose | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | 2.5mg | Starter dose (not maintenance) |
| 5-8 | 5mg | First maintenance dose |
| 9-12 | 7.5mg | Optional increase |
| 13-16 | 10mg | Target maintenance for most |
| 17+ | 12.5-15mg | Maximum dose if needed |
Most patients see significant results at 10mg. Increasing to 15mg provides additional benefit but also increases side effects. Work with your provider to find your optimal maintenance dose.
Brand vs. Compounded: Which Is Better for Weight Loss?
Here's the honest comparison:
Brand Zepbound
- ✓ All clinical trial data applies directly
- ✓ Guaranteed potency and sterility
- ✓ Insurance may cover ($25/mo)
- ✓ FDA oversight and quality control
- ✗ Higher cost without insurance
Compounded Tirzepatide
- ✓ Lower cost at high doses
- ✓ Oral tablet options available
- ✓ Custom dosing flexibility
- ✗ No clinical trial data on compounded versions
- ✗ Quality varies by pharmacy
Important: Clinical trial results (22.5% weight loss) were achieved with FDA-approved tirzepatide, not compounded versions. Compounded medications have not been studied for efficacy or safety in clinical trials.
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