Wegovy vs Mounjaro is a common comparison because both medications affect appetite, blood sugar, and body weight. While they share some similarities, they contain different active ingredients and work differently in the body.
Wegovy contains semaglutide, while Mounjaro contains tirzepatide. They also differ in their FDA-approved uses, weight-loss results, dosing options, side effects, and insurance coverage.
Here are the six key differences between Wegovy and Mounjaro and what you should know about each.
Key Takeaways
- Wegovy contains semaglutide, while Mounjaro contains tirzepatide.
- Wegovy targets GLP-1, while Mounjaro targets both GIP and GLP-1.
- Wegovy is FDA-approved for chronic weight management, while Mounjaro is FDA-approved for Type 2 diabetes.
- Both medications can lead to weight loss, but their clinical results differ.
- The right option depends on your health needs, treatment goals, and your healthcare provider’s recommendation.
At a Glance Comparison
Wegovy vs Mounjaro on FDA-Approved Uses
Wegovy and Mounjaro are FDA-approved for different purposes.
If you’re considering Wegovy, the FDA has approved it for chronic weight management in certain adults and adolescents ages 12 and older. Wegovy also has approvals for reducing the risk of serious cardiovascular events in certain adults and treating MASH with liver fibrosis in certain adults.
Mounjaro, on the other hand, treats Type 2 diabetes in adults and children ages 10 and older. You may lose weight while taking Mounjaro, but the FDA hasn’t approved Mounjaro specifically for weight loss. Tirzepatide is available for chronic weight management under a different brand name, Zepbound.
Simply put, Wegovy has a weight-management indication, while Mounjaro focuses on Type 2 diabetes.
Wegovy vs Mounjaro on How They Work
Wegovy and Mounjaro both affect appetite and blood sugar, but they don’t work in exactly the same way.
Wegovy contains semaglutide, which targets a hormone pathway called GLP-1. This can help you feel full sooner, stay full longer, and reduce hunger. It also helps your body regulate blood sugar.
Mounjaro contains tirzepatide and targets two pathways: GIP and GLP-1. This dual action also affects appetite, digestion, and blood sugar regulation.
The main difference is that Wegovy works through GLP-1 alone, while Mounjaro combines the effects of both GIP and GLP-1.
Wegovy vs Mounjaro on Weight Loss
Both Wegovy and Mounjaro can lead to significant weight loss, but clinical studies have shown different results.
In studies of people without diabetes, adults taking Wegovy 2.4 mg lost an average of about 15% of their body weight. A higher-dose Wegovy injection has produced average weight loss of about 19% in clinical studies.
Studies of tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Mounjaro, have shown average weight loss of about 21% at the highest dose among people without diabetes. However, Mounjaro itself isn’t FDA-approved for weight loss; tirzepatide is approved for weight management under the brand name Zepbound.
Clinical studies suggest tirzepatide can produce greater average weight loss, but your individual results can vary based on your dose, health, and response to treatment.
Wegovy vs Mounjaro on Dosage and Administration
Both Wegovy and Mounjaro offer once-weekly injections, but Wegovy gives you an additional option.
Wegovy comes as a once-weekly injection and a once-daily oral tablet. Your provider typically starts you at a lower dose and gradually increases it to help your body adjust to treatment.
Mounjaro comes as a once-weekly injection. It also follows a gradual dosing schedule, with your provider increasing the dose over time based on your response and tolerance.
Wegovy gives you the choice between an injection and a tablet, while Mounjaro is currently administered by injection.
Wegovy vs Mounjaro on Side Effects
Wegovy and Mounjaro share many of the same side effects, especially those involving your digestive system.
Common side effects can include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
These side effects often appear when you first start treatment or increase your dose. Your experience can vary depending on the medication, dose, and how your body responds.
Both medications also carry more serious risks and may not be appropriate for everyone, so your healthcare provider should review your medical history before you start treatment.
Wegovy vs Mounjaro on Cost and Insurance Coverage
The cost of Wegovy or Mounjaro can vary based on your insurance coverage, prescribed treatment, and where you receive care.
Insurance may cover Wegovy for certain approved uses, including weight management, while coverage for Mounjaro generally centers on its FDA-approved use for Type 2 diabetes. Your plan may require prior authorization or have other eligibility requirements.
At beyondMD, the Wegovy Consultation Program starts at $129, while the Oral Semaglutide Program starts at $149.
These are starting prices and don’t include consultation, shipping, or other potential costs. Your provider will disclose any additional costs associated with your treatment.
Which Is Right for You?
Wegovy may be an option if you:
- Meet the eligibility requirements for chronic weight management
- Prefer a medication specifically FDA-approved for weight management
- Have certain cardiovascular risk factors that may make its additional approved uses relevant
Mounjaro may be an option if you:
- Have Type 2 diabetes
- Need additional support managing your blood sugar
- Could benefit from a medication that targets both GIP and GLP-1
Final Thoughts
Wegovy and Mounjaro share some similarities, but they serve different purposes and work differently in your body. Wegovy contains semaglutide and targets GLP-1, while Mounjaro contains tirzepatide and targets both GIP and GLP-1.
Neither medication is automatically the better choice for everyone. Your health needs, treatment goals, medical history, and provider’s recommendation should guide which option makes sense for you.
