Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Imcivree (setmelanotide)
Zepbound (tirzepatide)
Imcivree (setmelanotide)
Zepbound (tirzepatide)
Summary of Imcivree vs. Zepbound
Summary for Melanocortin agonist
Prescription only
Imcivree (setmelanotide) is an injectable medication for adults and children with certain rare conditions. It's FDA approved for acquired hypothalamic obesity (HO). It's also approved to help with obesity caused by some genetic conditions. These are Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) and POMC, PCSK1, or LEPR deficiency. The medication works as a melanocortin agonist. It lessens appetite and makes the body use more energy, leading to weight loss. It's injected under the skin once a day. Side effects include darkening of skin color and nausea. More serious risks include depression and suicidal thoughts.
Summary for GIP and GLP-1 agonist
Prescription only
Zepbound (tirzepatide) is an injectable medication that's used along with diet and exercise. It helps with weight loss in adults who meet criteria for weight management therapy. It's also approved to treat moderate-to-severe sleep apnea. This medication belongs to the drug class called GIP and GLP-1 agonists. The dosage is 1 injection under the skin once a week. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and injection site reactions. Zepbound (tirzepatide) is only available as a brand-name medication.
Indications of Imcivree vs. Zepbound
Indications for
•
Weight loss and long-term weight management in people ages 4 years and older with obesity due to damage to the hypothalamus (acquired hypothalamic obesity, HO)
•
Weight loss and long-term weight management in people ages 2 years and older with obesity due to certain genetic conditions: