With obesity impacting nearly 30% of the UK adult population, innovative weight management solutions are in high demand, but it can be difficult to know where to start. If you’re interested in taking Mounjaro but are wondering how it compares to other options on the market, this is the guide for you.
Mounjaro vs Wegovy- which is right for you?
The biggest difference between Mounjaro and Wegovy is that they contain different active drugs. Mounjaro contains Tirzepatide whereas Wegovy contains Semaglutide, which works in different ways. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) works by stimulating receptors for two hormone: glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP). GLP-1 helps to regulate blood glucose levels, suppressing your appetite and slowing down the emptying of the stomach to keep hunger at bay. GIP enhances the effects of GLP-1 by regulating the energy balance in your brain and fat cells.
Semaglutide (Wegovy) only stimulates the GLP-1 receptor, whereas Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) stimulates both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors. A recent study conducted on the long-term effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists found that patients taking Tirzepatide experienced a superior weight loss of 20.2% compared to 13.7% for those who took Wegovy over 72 weeks. So if you’re wondering ‘Is Mounjaro better than Wegovy for weight loss?’, the answer is that, according to data, Mounjaro could be more effective over the long term.
Can I switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro?
Different weight loss medications aren’t interchangeable. If you’re using another weight loss medication, such as Wegovy, you’ll need to wait up to 4 weeks before switching to Mounjaro. Your previous weight loss medication needs to fully leave your system during a 'washout' period. Keep in mind, Mounjaro might not be suitable for you (even if you're using another weight loss medication). We’ll assess if it’s right for you during your consultation. Whether you choose Mounjaro or Wegovy will be dependent on your own weight loss goals and health requirements.
Mounjaro vs Ozempic: Which is right for you?
Ozempic is undoubtedly one of the most well-known brand names on the market, but how does it compare to Mounjaro? Ozempic is another brand name of Semaglutide and therefore works in the same way as Wegovy.
The difference between Wegovy and Ozempic is that Wegovy is approved in the UK as a weight loss medication. In contrast, Ozempic is not licensed for weight loss and is only approved for managing Type 2 Diabetes. You therefore need to have a diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes in order to obtain an Ozempic prescription in the UK. For this reason, Mounjaro is far more suitable than Ozempic for those looking solely for a weight loss aid.
Mounjaro vs Metformin: Which is right for you?
Metformin is not licensed for weight loss and is not a recommended weight loss treatment. It is prescribed for those with type-2 diabetes
Metformin is taken orally in tablet form twice a day, whereas Mounjaro is injected into the skin (subcutaneously) once a week. Some people might be prescribed Mounjaro and metformin together as part of treating type 2 diabetes. This should only be done in conjunction with the team responsible for looking after your type 2 diabetes if that applies to you.
Mounjaro vs. Trulicity: Which is right for you?
Similarly to Mounjaro, Trulicity (dulaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. However, it only stimulates the GLP-1 receptor whereas Mounjaro stimulates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. Therefore, when considering if Mounjaro is better than Trulicity for weight loss, according to data from randomised control trials, Mounjaro resulted in greater weight loss.
However, Trulicity is not licensed for weight loss and is not a recommended weight loss treatment. It is prescribed for those with type-2 diabetes.
At Phlo Clinic, we offer only Mounjaro and Wegovy as part of our weight loss service. You can complete this online questionnaire to check your eligibility for the medication
Looking for more information? Check out our guide for everything you need to know about Mounjaro.
