Which GLP-1 is Best for Weight Loss in 2025? Pros & Cons

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists have greatly improved medical options for revolutionized weight loss and obesity treatment, offering a pharmaceutical approach to reducing body weight when lifestyle changes alone are insufficient. Initially developed for diabetes care, these injectable medications have been shown to help lower blood sugar, regulate food intake, and promote weight reduction by mimicking the body’s natural hormone responses.

With multiple options available, many people wonder: Which GLP-1 is best for weight loss in 2025? In 2025, several GLP-1 medications are being prescribed, each with unique benefits and potential drawbacks.

This article will provide a comprehensive review of the most effective GLP-1 therapy, comparing their effectiveness, risks, side effects, and long-term potential benefits.

What Are GLP-1 Receptor Agonists?

GLP-1 receptor agonists belong to a drug class originally approved for diabetes treatment, helping patients lower blood sugar by stimulating more insulin production. Over time, studies revealed their ability to assist in weight management by suppressing appetite, reducing food intake, and slowing digestion.

These medications work through multiple pathways, influencing the brain’s hunger centers and gut hormones to facilitate weight loss while also lowering blood sugar levels. Higher doses have been explicitly formulated for compatible individuals looking to lose weight, separate from their diabetes care applications.

GLP-1 Medications Comparison Chart

Medication	Effectiveness	Administration	FDA Approval	Pros	Cons
Tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro)	Very High (Up to 21% body weight loss)	Weekly Injection	Yes (Obesity & Diabetes)	Most effective for weight loss; dual action mechanism (GLP-1 & GIP); strong blood sugar control.	More gastrointestinal side effects; requires gradual dose titration; limited availability.
Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic)	High (Up to 15% body weight loss)	Weekly Injection	Yes (Obesity & Diabetes)	Significant weight loss; well-studied; long-term data available.	Common side effects include nausea and vomiting; expensive without insurance.
Liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza)	Moderate (5-10% body weight loss)	Daily Injection	Yes (Obesity & Diabetes)	Well-established safety profile; can be prescribed for overweight individuals with other conditions.	Requires daily injections; less effective for weight loss compared to newer GLP-1s.
Exenatide Extended Release (Bydureon BCise)	Low to Moderate (2-6% body weight loss)	Weekly Injection	Yes (Primarily for Diabetes)	Available in extended-release form; may assist with weight maintenance.	Lower weight loss effectiveness; not FDA-approved for obesity treatment.

1. Semaglutide (Wegovy & Ozempic)

Efficacy: High
Administration: Weekly injection
FDA Approval: Yes (Wegovy for weight loss, Ozempic for diabetes)

Semaglutide remains a leading GLP-1 receptor agonist for weight loss in 2025 due to its proven efficacy in clinical trials. Developed initially as a diabetes medication, semaglutide mimics glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) to regulate blood sugar, control food intake, and slow stomach emptying, leading to significant weight reduction.

Higher doses, such as those found in Wegovy, have been designed explicitly for obesity treatment, helping certain patients achieve rapid weight loss when combined with diet and exercise. Clinical data from phase III trials showed that individuals using semaglutide lost up to 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks, demonstrating its significant effectiveness compared to other GLP-1 medications.

Beyond its ability to help people lose weight, semaglutide offers additional health benefits, including lower blood pressure, improved cardiovascular disease outcomes, and potential protection against kidney disease.

Research also indicates that it may reduce the risk of heart failure and help manage conditions like chronic condition progression in individuals with diabetes.

Pros:

✔ Proven to help prevent weight regain and aid in weight maintenance after weight loss.
✔ Also beneficial for heart disease and kidney disease, reducing associated risks.
✔ Extended-release formulation allows for once-weekly injections, improving compliance.
✔ Supports lower blood sugar levels and enhances blood glucose control in patients with diabetes.
✔ May improve multiple pathways of metabolic health, leading to broader health benefits.

Cons:

✘ The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal side effects, which can be severe for some users.
✘ Higher doses may lead to adverse effects like delayed gastric emptying, causing stomach discomfort and gastrointestinal side effects.
✘ In rare cases, semaglutide has been linked to a low risk of kidney injury, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease.
✘ The cost of semaglutide remains high, and insurance coverage may not be available for all patients.
✘ Some users experience weight regain after they stop taking the medication, highlighting the importance of long-term weight management strategies.

Who Should Consider Semaglutide?

“Semaglutide is a well-studied option for individuals seeking significant weight loss, particularly those with diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease. However, its side effects and cost should be considered before starting treatment.

Consulting with healthcare providers is crucial to determining if semaglutide is the right option for weight management and obesity treatment.

2. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro & Zepbound)

Effectiveness: Very High
Administration: Weekly Injection
FDA Approval: Yes (Zepbound for obesity, Mounjaro for diabetes)

Tirzepatide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist with a dual mechanism of action, targeting both glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) receptors. This combination has been shown to enhance weight reduction and blood sugar control more effectively than earlier GLP-1 medications.

Originally developed for diabetes treatment, tirzepatide has also been studied for its effects on weight loss. Clinical trials demonstrated that individuals on higher doses of tirzepatide lost up to 21% of their body weight, a greater reduction compared to semaglutide. Based on current data, tirzepatide has shown the highest average weight loss among GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight management.

Beyond its effects on weight loss, tirzepatide has been associated with improvements in cardiovascular health, including potential benefits for heart disease risk reduction and blood pressure regulation. It has also been shown to help stabilize blood sugar levels, making it a treatment option for individuals with both diabetes and obesity.

While tirzepatide has shown significant weight loss results, it requires gradual dose titration to help manage adverse effects, mainly gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort.

Additionally, due to its relatively recent approval for weight loss, it is not yet as widely prescribed as semaglutide-based medications like Wegovy and Ozempic. Many people wonder if Zepbound is the same as Mounjaro, and the answer is “no, not exactly.” Though they contain the same active ingredient, tirzepatide, Mounjaro is FDA-approved for diabetes, and Zepbound for weight loss.

Pros:

✔ Greater effectiveness than other GLP-1 receptor agonists, achieving higher weight loss percentages.
✔ More potent than semaglutide for both weight reduction and diabetes management.
✔ Supports weight management and helps prevent weight regain over the long term.
✔ Demonstrates strong blood sugar control, which may help reduce risks associated with diabetes management.
✔ May reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, heart failure, and kidney disease.

Cons:

✘ Adverse effects include gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort, particularly when first starting or increasing dose.
✘ Not yet as widely available as semaglutide, leading to limited access for some patients.
✘ Requires careful dose titration to manage side effects and avoid excessive blood sugar drops.
✘ Long-term safety data is still being gathered, as it is newer than other GLP-1 medications.
✘ May be costly, depending on insurance coverage and availability.

Who Should Consider Tirzepatide?

Tirzepatide may be a suitable option for individuals seeking significant weight loss and improved blood sugar control, particularly those with obesity and diabetes. It may also benefit those with family history of heart disease or kidney disease, as its effects extend beyond weight loss.

However, patients should discuss potential side effects, cost, and accessibility with their healthcare providers before starting treatment.

3. Liraglutide (Saxenda & Victoza)

Effectiveness: Moderate
Administration: Daily Injection
FDA Approval: Yes

Liraglutide was one of the first GLP-1 receptor agonists approved for weight loss and continues to be used for weight management in 2025. Unlike newer extended-release formulations such as semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound), liraglutide requires daily injections, which may affect adherence for some individuals. However, it has been extensively studied for both diabetes treatment (Victoza) and obesity treatment (Saxenda) and has a well-documented safety profile.

While liraglutide is less effective than semaglutide and tirzepatide for weight loss, it still provides moderate benefits, helping patients achieve an average weight reduction of 5-10% of their body weight over one year. This makes it a viable option for individuals looking to lose weight without needing the higher doses required for more rapid weight loss.

Beyond its role in weight management, liraglutide has been associated with additional health benefits, including a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, heart disease, and high blood pressure. It has also been shown to help lower blood sugar and reduce complications related to diabetes.

Despite these potential benefits, its requirement for daily injections makes it less attractive compared to once-weekly GLP-1 agonists. Additionally, patients often experience gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort, especially when first starting the medication or increasing the dose.

Pros:

✔ Long history of safe use, with extensive research supporting its effectiveness in weight management and diabetes care.
✔ Can be prescribed for weight reduction in overweight individuals with other health conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart disease.
✔ May lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly in patients with diabetes.
✔ Helps regulate blood glucose levels and prevent weight regain when used as part of a comprehensive weight management plan.

Cons:

✘ Less effective than semaglutide or tirzepatide for weight loss, with lower average body weight reduction.
✘ More frequent injections are required, as they must be taken daily rather than weekly like newer GLP-1 drugs.
✘ Most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal side effects, which can affect adherence.
✘ Weight regain may occur after discontinuing the medication, particularly without continued diet and exercise support.
✘ Higher doses may be necessary for some individuals, increasing the likelihood of adverse effects.

Who Should Consider Liraglutide?

Liraglutide is a solid option for individuals looking for a safe, well-studied medication for weight loss and diabetes treatment, particularly those who do not mind daily injections. It is also a suitable choice for those who need moderate weight reduction but are not candidates for higher doses of semaglutide or tirzepatide due to health conditions or medication intolerance.

However, patients should weigh the trade-offs between effectiveness, frequency of administration, and side effects when discussing treatment options with their healthcare providers.

4. Exenatide Extended Release (Bydureon BCise)

Effectiveness: Low to Moderate
Administration: Weekly Injection
FDA Approval: Yes (Primarily for Diabetes)

Exenatide was among the first GLP-1 receptor agonists introduced for diabetes treatment, with later studies revealing its modest impact on weight loss. While it does contribute to weight reduction, its effects are significantly weaker compared to newer GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide.

The extended-release version, marketed as Bydureon BCise, is designed for weekly injections, making it more convenient than the original immediate-release exenatide (Byetta), which required twice-daily injections. Although its primary use remains blood sugar control for individuals with diabetes, it can provide some weight loss benefits, particularly for those seeking gradual weight reduction rather than rapid weight loss.

Exenatide works by mimicking glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) to lower blood sugar, slow stomach emptying, and reduce food intake. However, its effectiveness for weight loss is lower than that of semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) or tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro), with most patients experiencing an average body weight reduction of 2-6% over one year.

One of its strengths is its ability to support weight maintenance and prevent weight regain, though it is generally not the first choice for individuals seeking significant weight reduction. It also provides potential benefits for diabetes care, such as lowering blood sugar and improving blood glucose levels.

Despite its extended-release formula improving convenience, exenatide still comes with common side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort. Additionally, some individuals experience gastrointestinal side effects severe enough to lead to discontinuation of the medication.

Pros:

✔ Available in extended-release formulation, requiring only once-weekly injections.
✔ May assist with weight maintenance and prevent weight regain in patients who have already lost weight.
✔ Can help lower blood sugar and support diabetes management.
✔ More insulin secretion is promoted in response to meals, improving blood glucose control.
✔ May be a viable alternative treatment for patients who cannot tolerate higher doses of semaglutide or tirzepatide.

Cons:

✘ Lower effectiveness for weight loss compared to semaglutide and tirzepatide, with only modest weight reduction.
✘ Other side effects include nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal issues, which can affect treatment adherence.
✘ Not specifically approved for obesity treatment, meaning it may not be covered by insurance for weight loss.
✘ May not provide enough insulin stimulation in individuals with advanced diabetes.
✘ Limited cardiovascular benefits compared to newer GLP-1 agonists that actively reduce heart disease risk.

Who Should Consider Exenatide Extended Release?

Exenatide may be suitable for individuals looking for a moderate weight loss option that also improves blood sugar control, particularly those with diabetes.For patients seeking greater weight reduction, newer GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) have demonstrated higher efficacy in clinical trials.

Healthcare providers can help determine if exenatide extended-release is the right fit based on an individual’s health conditions, treatment goals, and medical history.

Choosing the Best GLP-1 for Weight Loss

Whether you’re considering Mounjaro vs. Ozempic or Ozempic vs. Wegovy & Saxenda, selecting the most suitable GLP-1 drug for weight loss is not a one-size-fits-all decision. Various factors, including an individual’s Weight Loss Drug Type (quiz here), family history, existing health conditions, and overall weight management goals, play a crucial role in determining which medication will be the most effective and tolerable.

Since these GLP-1 drugs have different mechanisms, dosing schedules, and side effect profiles, patients should consult with healthcare providers to evaluate the best option tailored to their specific needs.

Several key considerations should be taken into account when choosing a GLP-1 agonist medication:

Effectiveness

The primary goal for many individuals using GLP-1 medications is significant weight reduction and weight maintenance over the long term.

Some GLP-1 receptor agonists have shown greater weight loss effects than others, with semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro) demonstrating the highest weight reduction in clinical trials.

• Tirzepatide (Zepbound) has shown the greatest weight loss effect, with clinical trials reporting an average reduction of up to 21% of body weight over 72 weeks, making it the most potent GLP-1 medication currently available.
• Semaglutide (Wegovy) has also been shown to be highly effective, with an average weight loss of 15% over a similar period. It has been widely studied and is approved for both obesity and diabetes treatment.
• Liraglutide (Saxenda) has demonstrated moderate effectiveness, leading to a 5-10% body weight reduction over a year. It may be suitable for individuals seeking gradual weight loss or those who prefer a medication with a longer track record of use.
• Exenatide Extended Release (Bydureon BCise) has been associated with some weight reduction, though clinical studies suggest it is less effective compared to newer GLP-1 receptor agonists.

For those who need rapid weight loss or have struggled with weight regain, tirzepatide and semaglutide offer the best results.

Side Effects

All GLP-1 receptor agonists share common side effects, mostly related to their impact on digestion.

The most common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach discomfort
• Gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea or constipation

While these adverse effects are usually temporary, they can be severe enough to cause some individuals to stop taking the medication. Patients who are particularly sensitive to stomach-related side effects should consider a gradual dose increase or discuss alternative options with their healthcare providers.

Tirzepatide and semaglutide have a higher likelihood of causing gastrointestinal issues due to their potent effects, while liraglutide and exenatide may be slightly easier to tolerate but require more frequent injections.

Administration Preference

The frequency and ease of medication administration are also important considerations. Some individuals may prefer weekly injections, while others may be comfortable with daily doses.

• Weekly injections: Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic), tripeptide (Zepbound, Mounjaro), and exenatide extended-release (Bydureon BCise) offer once-weekly dosing, which may be more convenient for patients who prefer fewer injections.
• Daily injections: Liraglutide (Saxenda) requires daily administration, which can be less convenient but may be preferable for individuals who experience fewer side effects on lower daily doses.

For patients who value ease of use, extended-release options like semaglutide and tripeptide may be more desirable.

Other Health Benefits

Beyond weight loss, GLP-1 receptor agonists provide additional health benefits, which can be a deciding factor for some individuals.

These include:

• Cardiovascular Benefits:
  • Tirzepatide and semaglutide have been shown to reduce cardiovascular disease risk and improve heart disease outcomes.
  • Liraglutide has also demonstrated protective effects for the heart, though it is less effective for weight loss.
• Blood Sugar Control & Diabetes Treatment:
  • All GLP-1 receptor agonists contribute to lowering blood sugar levels and reducing blood sugar spikes, which can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing high blood sugar.
  • Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) and semaglutide (Ozempic) have demonstrated strong efficacy in improving blood glucose control, with clinical studies indicating significant reductions in A1C levels.
• Kidney Disease Prevention:
  • Some GLP-1 drugs may help reduce kidney disease progression, particularly in patients with diabetes or high blood pressure.

For individuals with a family history of heart disease, kidney disease, or diabetes, choosing a GLP-1 agonist that provides multiple pathways of health improvement can be beneficial.

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Final Thoughts: Which GLP-1 is Best?

The best GLP-1 for weight loss depends on a patient’s Weight Loss Drug Type, specific goals, medical history, and tolerance to side effects.

“Below is a general guide based on individual treatment goals:

✔ For the highest average weight loss observed in clinical trials: Tirzepatide (Zepbound)
✔ For substantial weight loss with extensive long-term research: Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic)
✔ For moderate weight loss with a well-documented safety profile: Liraglutide (Saxenda)
✔ For individuals primarily focused on blood sugar control: Exenatide Extended Release (Bydureon BCise)”

Ultimately, patients should work closely with healthcare providers to select the GLP-1 medication that best aligns with their weight loss goals, health conditions, and lifestyle preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About GLP-1 for Weight Loss

As GLP-1 receptor agonists become more widely used for weight loss and blood sugar management, many people have questions about how these medications work, which options are available, and how to qualify for a prescription.

Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions about GLP-1 drugs for weight management.

1. Which GLP-1 Causes the Most Weight Loss?

Currently, tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro) has shown the greatest weight loss effect among GLP-1 receptor agonists in clinical trials.

Studies indicate that individuals taking higher doses of tirzepatide experienced up to a 21% reduction in body weight over 72 weeks, which was greater than the weight loss observed with semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic).

For comparison:

• Tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro) → Up to 21% body weight loss
• Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) → Up to 15% body weight loss
• Liraglutide (Saxenda) → 5-10% body weight loss
• Exenatide Extended Release (Bydureon BCise) → 2-6% body weight loss

While tirzepatide is the most effective GLP-1 for weight loss, the best choice depends on an individual’s health history, tolerance for side effects, and medication accessibility.

2. Which GLP-1 Has the Fewest Side Effects?

All GLP-1 receptor agonists share similar side effects, mostly related to the gastrointestinal system.

The most common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Stomach discomfort
• Reduced appetite

Among the available GLP-1 medications, liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza) and exenatide extended-release (Bydureon BCise) generally have fewer severe side effects, but they also provide less weight loss.

Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro) can cause stronger gastrointestinal reactions, especially at higher doses.

To minimize side effects, many healthcare providers recommend starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it over several weeks. Individual tolerance varies, so some people may experience mild symptoms while others may have more severe reactions.

3. Which Is Better, Ozempic or Mounjaro?

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Ozempic (semaglutide) are both GLP-1 receptor agonists used for blood sugar control and weight loss, but they function differently:

• Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual-agonist, activating both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors. This combined mechanism has been shown to enhance blood sugar regulation and result in greater weight loss in clinical studies.
• Ozempic (semaglutide) acts solely on GLP-1 receptors, supporting blood sugar control and weight reduction, though clinical trials suggest it produces less weight loss compared to tirzepatide.

Comparison Summary

Feature	Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)	Ozempic (Semaglutide)
Weight Loss	Up to 21% body weight reduction	Up to 15% body weight reduction
Effect on Blood Sugar	More potent in lowering blood sugar	Highly effective for blood sugar control
Administration	Weekly injection	Weekly injection
Side Effects	More gastrointestinal side effects at higher doses	Gastrointestinal side effects, but slightly milder than tirzepatide

Mounjaro may be a more suitable option for individuals seeking greater weight loss, based on clinical trial data. Ozempic remains a well-established choice, particularly for those prioritizing a medication with extensive long-term safety data.

4. Does Mounjaro or Wegovy Work Better for Weight Loss?

Both Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) are FDA-approved GLP-1 medications for obesity treatment. Clinical trials have shown that Mounjaro (Zepbound) is associated with greater average weight loss compared to Wegovy.

Head-to-Head Comparison

• Mounjaro (tirzepatide/Zepbound) → 21% average body weight loss over 72 weeks
• Wegovy (semaglutide) → 15% average body weight loss over 68 weeks

While clinical trials indicate that Mounjaro is associated with greater average weight loss, both medications require long-term adherence to sustain results.

Healthcare providers will often prescribe Wegovy or Mounjaro based on an individual’s medical history, insurance coverage, and tolerance for side effects.

5. How Do You Qualify for GLP-1 for Weight Loss?

To qualify for GLP-1 agonist medications for weight loss, most healthcare providers follow these standard eligibility criteria:

1. Body Mass Index (BMI) Requirements
   • BMI of 30 or higher (classified as obese)
   • BMI of 27 or higher (classified as overweight) with at least one obesity-related health condition, such as:
     • Type 2 diabetes
     • High blood pressure
     • Heart disease
     • Sleep apnea
2. History of Unsuccessful Weight Loss Attempts
   • Many doctors require patients to have previously attempted weight loss through diet and exercise before prescribing GLP-1 medications.
3. Medical Evaluation
   • Healthcare providers will assess an individual’s overall health, family history, and risk factors to determine if a GLP-1 agonist is the best treatment option.
4. Insurance Coverage
   • Some insurance providers require documentation of an obesity diagnosis and proof of failed weight loss attempts before approving coverage for GLP-1 medications.

If you meet these criteria, your doctor may prescribe a GLP-1 receptor agonist for weight loss.

6. Will My Doctor Prescribe GLP-1 for Weight Loss?

Whether or not a doctor prescribes a GLP-1 medication for weight loss depends on several factors, including:

• Your BMI and health conditions
• Your history of weight loss attempts
• Your insurance coverage
• Your doctor’s prescribing philosophy

Some healthcare providers are more conservative when it comes to weight loss medications, preferring lifestyle changes first. Others are more open to prescribing GLP-1 receptor agonists, especially for individuals struggling with chronic obesity.

If your doctor is hesitant, you may:

✔ Ask about your eligibility based on your BMI and health history
✔ Explain your previous weight loss efforts and why you are considering medication
✔ Request a referral to an obesity specialist or endocrinologist
✔ Check with insurance to see which GLP-1 drugs are covered for weight loss treatment

Some weight loss clinics and telehealth services also provide GLP-1 prescriptions, but it’s best to work with a trusted healthcare provider to determine the most suitable medication for your needs.

Conclusion

GLP-1 receptor agonists continue to be a key option for obesity treatment in 2025, with tirzepatide and semaglutide demonstrating significant weight loss effects in clinical studies. The decision to use these medications should be made in consultation with healthcare providers, weighing the potential benefits against the possible adverse effects.

For individuals looking to lose weight while managing diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure, these GLP-1 drugs offer a promising solution. However, diet and exercise remain essential components of weight management and preventing weight regain after stopping treatment.