Mounjaro vs Ozempic for Weight Loss

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Ozempic (semaglutide) are two medications widely used for managing type 2 diabetes and have shown significant promise in aiding weight loss.

However, only Mounjaro is licensed for use in weight loss alone. Both medications are injectables but differ in their mechanisms of action. This comparison provides an in-depth look at their effectiveness, side effects, cost, and other relevant factors to help individuals make an informed decision.

Evaluating the effectiveness of Mounjaro and Ozempic reveals that both medications can substantially aid in weight reduction, though their performance varies slightly.

• Mounjaro: Clinical trials indicate that Mounjaro can result in weight loss of up to 26% of body weight over a year when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
• Ozempic: Research, including the STEP trials, shows that Ozempic can lead to a weight loss of approximately 10-15% of body weight over the same period.

Mounjaro generally shows a higher percentage of weight loss, making it potentially more effective for some individuals.

Mounjaro and Ozempic employ different methods, which can influence their overall effectiveness and suitability for different patients.

• Mounjaro: Tirzepatide is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and GLP-1 receptor agonist. It activates both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, which helps regulate appetite, slow gastric emptying, and increase insulin production, thereby reducing food intake and promoting weight loss. Its additional effect on GIP receptors results in altered fat metabolism, providing additional benefit in weight loss.
• Ozempic: Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, mimics the GLP-1 hormone. It helps manage appetite, slows down gastric emptying, and stimulates insulin secretion in response to meals, effectively aiding in diabetes management, with a secondary benefit of reducing hunger and promoting weight loss.

The cost of Mounjaro and Ozempic treatments can vary, influenced by factors such as insurance coverage, location, and healthcare system differences.

• Mounjaro: Typically less expensive, with costs ranging from £170-£190 per month depending on the dose strength.
• Ozempic: Generally costs around £150 per month for the lowest dose, rising up to £300 for the highest strength dose.

Annually, Mounjaro could cost around £2160, whereas Ozempic might cost around £2700.

Both Mounjaro and Wegovy have potential side effects, but they differ in nature due to their different mechanisms of action.

• Common side effects: Include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and stomach pain. Some individuals may also experience headaches and dizziness. As these are injectable, there is the risk of needle-phobia, injection-site infections and localised reactions.
• Mounjaro: As a dual receptor agonist, it might have a broader range of gastrointestinal side effects initially, but these often subside as the body adjusts.
• Wegovy: Side effects are often related to its effect on the digestive system and appetite regulation.

Both medications have similar side effect profiles, with gastrointestinal issues being the most common.

• Mounjaro: Administered via injection once weekly, with the dose gradually increased based on the patient’s response and tolerance.
• Ozempic: Also administered via injection once weekly, reaching a consistent dose aimed primarily at managing type 2 diabetes.

Both medications are convenient with their weekly injection schedules.

Considering the interactions between these medications and various foods or drugs is crucial for effective treatment.

• Mounjaro: Food interactions are minimal, but it can interact with other medications, especially those affecting blood sugar levels. Following dietary guidelines and consulting a healthcare provider to manage potential interactions is essential.
• Ozempic: Similar to Mounjaro, Ozempic’s interactions with food are minor, but it can interact with other medications. Consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended to avoid adverse interactions. It is important to be under medical supervision, and monitor glucose levels, if glucose-lowering medication has been stopped, or replaced by, Ozempic.

Both Mounjaro and Ozempic are available in the UK with a prescription.

• Mounjaro: Available by prescription for both weight loss and type 2 diabetes management.
• Ozempic: Primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes management, with weight loss as a secondary benefit.

Mounjaro and Ozempic offer effective solutions for weight loss, each with its unique mechanism and benefits. Mounjaro is licensed specifically for weight loss and can be more effective due to its dual action, but is more expensive. Ozempic, while slightly less effective in terms of weight loss percentage, is also a powerful option and generally less costly.

This article is for general information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Medic Spot Limited has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but makes no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. In the event of an emergency, please call 999 for immediate assistance.

There is no guarantee of a specific weight loss medication being prescribed. Clinicians will review your online questionnaire and will recommend the most appropriate weight loss treatments for you based on your answers. In some cases the clinicians may contact you for additional information. See Terms of Service for more information.