What you’ll learn:
- Wegovy® is FDA-approved for weight loss, while Mounjaro® is approved to treat type 2 diabetes but can be prescribed off-label for weight management.
- Both are powerful weight-loss tools, but Mounjaro® may lead to greater results thanks to its dual-hormone action.
- Both medications work best alongside healthy habits like balanced eating, regular movement, and lifestyle support.
If you’ve been considering medication to help with weight loss, GLP-1 receptor agonists are probably on your radar. The most well-known one, Ozempic®, has become a household name thanks to its popularity and effectiveness. Originally developed to manage diabetes, it’s now widely recognized for its off-label use in weight loss.
But Ozempic® isn’t the only GLP-1 that can help. In fact, several different GLP-1 medications are available, each with unique features, varying levels of effectiveness, and different FDA approvals.
One of the biggest debates right now? Wegovy® vs. Mounjaro®: Which one works best for weight loss? Both medications have been shown to help people lose significant amounts of weight, but they work differently and come with their own pros and cons.
Wegovy®, a semaglutide-based GLP-1 like Ozempic®, is FDA-approved for weight management. (They’re actually the same medication in different packages with different strengths.)
Mounjaro®, on the other hand, is made from tirzepatide and approved to treat type 2 diabetes but can be prescribed off-label. (It also has an identical counterpart called Zepbound®, which is approved for weight loss.)
So, which one is right for you? In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences, effectiveness, costs, side effects, and real-world results to help you make an informed decision.
Wegovy® vs. Mounjaro®: How do they work?
While Wegovy® and Mounjaro® are both part of the GLP-1 receptor agonist class of medication, they are made from different active ingredients. This means that while both medications mimic hormones in the body that regulate appetite, blood sugar, and digestion, they work in slightly different ways. Let’s break it down.
- Wegovy® (semaglutide) – Wegovy® contains semaglutide, which mimics a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). When you eat, this hormone reduces hunger, slows digestion, and regulates blood sugar levels. Essentially, it tells you that it’s time to stop eating as your body works to digest the food you just ate. By enhancing the effects of GLP-1, Wegovy® helps lower your appetite so that you eat fewer calories.
- Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) – Mounjaro® contains tirzepatide, which targets two hormones. Like Wegovy®, it mimics GLP-1, but it also acts like another hormone called GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). Acting as GIP enhances insulin sensitivity and improves fat metabolism.
Wegovy® vs. Mounjaro®: What are the differences?
While Wegovy® and Mounjaro® belong to the same class of medications, they work differently and have distinct FDA approvals, dosing schedules, and costs. Here’s what sets them apart:
They have different FDA approvals
Even though both medications can be prescribed for weight loss, they’re FDA-approved for different health conditions.
- Wegovy® – Wegovy® is FDA-approved for weight loss in people with a BMI of 30 or higher or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure. It’s also approved for preventing heart disease.
- Mounjaro® – Mounjaro® is FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes and can be prescribed off-label for weight loss.
They have different cost structures
Both medications can be expensive and are rarely covered by insurance when used for weight loss. Here’s a look:
- Wegovy® – The list price is around $1,350 per month without insurance. If you get your medication through the NovoCare Pharmacy, you will pay $499 per month.
- Mounjaro® – The list price is about $1,078 per month without insurance. Since it is FDA-approved for diabetes, it is more likely to be covered if prescribed for that condition. Coverage for off-label weight-loss use is rare. If you’re looking for an alternative, Zepbound® has the same active ingredient, but it can be prescribed in a vial and syringe format and will cost less for some doses. We’ll go more into the costs and ways to save below.
Wegovy® vs. Mounjaro®: What are the similarities?
While Wegovy® and Mounjaro® have their differences, these two medications share some interesting similarities. Let’s take a look at what they have in common:
They work by mimicking hormones
As mentioned, both medications mimic hormones that help regulate blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. Wegovy® mimics GLP-1, while Mounjaro® mimics both GLP-1 and GIP. These hormones signal to the brain that you’re full and slow down digestion, helping reduce hunger and support weight loss.
They are highly effective
Both medications have shown significant results in clinical trials for weight loss. On average, people on Wegovy® lose around 15% of their body weight, while those on Mounjaro® can lose even more—up to 20% or more of their body weight, depending on the dose. Individual results vary, but both options are among the most effective treatments currently available.
They have once-weekly dosing schedules
Wegovy® and Mounjaro® are administered once a week as subcutaneous (under-the-skin) injections into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. The injections come in easy-to-use pens, and people administer them at home on their own.
They follow a gradual dose escalation schedule
Wegovy® and Mounjaro® use a step-up dosing schedule, which means you don’t start on the full dose right away. Instead, you begin with a lower amount and your doctor will slowly increase it. This gradual approach helps your body get used to the medication and lowers the chances of uncomfortable side effects like nausea or digestive issues. Your doctor will monitor how you’re doing and adjust the dose as needed to keep you losing steady weight with the fewest side effects.
They have similar side effects
Wegovy® and Mounjaro® share many of the same potential side effects. The most common include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. We go through them more in-depth below.
They’re not for short-term weight loss
Neither medication is intended for quick or short-term weight loss. Both Wegovy® and Mounjaro® are designed for long-term use as part of a broader plan that includes healthy eating and physical activity. The goal is sustainable weight management, not rapid results.
Wegovy® vs. Mounjaro®: Which is better for weight loss?
Both medications can be effective for managing weight, but Mounjaro® may offer greater weight loss results. Studies suggest that tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) leads to greater weight loss over time compared to semaglutide (Wegovy).
It’s important, though, to look beyond just the number on the scale and focus on long-term success. Consider how these medications fit into your daily routine, lifestyle, budget, and personal health goals. Here’s a look at what you can expect:
How much weight can you lose on Wegovy® vs. Mounjaro®?
While tirzepatide can be more effective for weight loss, semaglutide is also highly effective. Let’s take a look at what the studies say:
- Semaglutide (Wegovy) – Studies show that people taking semaglutide dropped an average of 15% of their body weight in about 16 months.
- Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) – Tirzepatide can exceed the results of semaglutide. In 16 months, people taking a 5 mg dose lost, on average, about 15% of their body weight. People using 10 mg lost around 20%, and those on the 15 mg dose saw reductions of roughly 21% of their starting weight.
How long does it take to see results?
While some people notice changes early on, significant weight loss typically happens over several months as the body adjusts to the medication. Here’s what you can expect for short-term and long-term weight loss in terms of average percentage of body weight lost:
Short-term results (3 months)
Long-term results (12+ months)
- Wegovy®:15%.
- Mounjaro®: Up to 21%
Who can take Wegovy® or Mounjaro® for weight loss?
If you’ve been making lifestyle changes but aren’t seeing the results you hoped for, Wegovy® and Mounjaro® may be worth discussing with your doctor.
- Wegovy® can be prescribed to help people lose weight who meet one of the following criteria:
- Have a BMI of 30 or higher (or)
- Have a BMI of 27 or higher and at least one weight-related health condition, like high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
- Mounjaro® is FDA-approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes but can be prescribed off-label for people under the same BMI criteria as Wegovy®.
Who shouldn’t take Wegovy® or Mounjaro® for weight loss?
While these medications can be effective for many people, they aren’t right for everyone, especially:
- People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- Those with known allergies to semaglutide (Wegovy®) or tirzepatide (Mounjaro®)
- People who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. You should stop both medications at least 2 months before trying to conceive.
If you have a history of pancreatitis or certain gastrointestinal conditions, consult your doctor to determine if these are right for you.
For more detailed safety information, visit the Wegovy® safety page or the Mounjaro® safety page.
Can you switch between Wegovy® and Mounjaro®?
Yes, you can switch between Wegovy® (semaglutide) and Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Since both medications help with weight loss and blood sugar regulation, transitioning from one to the other is possible, if medically appropriate. Here are some reasons why you may want to switch from one medication to the other:
- Weight loss results – Some people may not achieve their desired weight loss results with one medication and switch to see if another works better.
- Insurance coverage and costs – Insurance plans vary in how they cover weight-loss medications, with most not covering them at all. Some people switch medications based on which one their insurance covers or which offers a lower out-of-pocket cost.
If you take Wegovy® or Mounjaro® to lose weight, will you need to keep taking them forever?
Some people may only need these medications for a set amount of time, while others may benefit from continued use. If you stop taking these medications, you may notice certain changes:
- Increased appetite
- Possible weight regain
- Slower metabolism
- Changes in blood sugar levels
That said, no matter how long you stay on either medication, lasting weight loss requires sustainable lifestyle changes. The best way to maintain your results is by adopting healthy eating habits and regular movement. Programs like Noom can help by providing personalized coaching, behavior-change strategies, and structured meal plans to keep you on track, whether you continue medication or not.
Does insurance cover Wegovy® or Mounjaro® for weight loss?
Insurance coverage for Wegovy® and Mounjaro® can vary widely depending on your provider, plan, and the reason for your prescription. Here’s a closer look at each medication’s coverage:
- Wegovy® – Insurance coverage for weight loss medications like Wegovy® is limited. Many plans do not include weight loss treatment as a covered benefit, and coverage can vary widely depending on your insurance provider and employer. Get the full details on pricing and insurance coverage for Wegovy®.
- Mounjaro® – When used for weight loss, insurance coverage is again unlikely. Mounjaro® might be covered when prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes. Even then, coverage may require documentation like HbA1c levels or proof that previous medication didn’t work. Get the full details for pricing and insurance coverage for Mounjaro®.
Does Medicare cover Mounjaro® or Wegovy®?
Coverage for weight-loss medications is very limited, and Mounjaro® and Wegovy® are only covered under Medicare Part D when prescribed for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro®) or cardiovascular disease (Wegovy®).
Wegovy® vs. Mounjaro®: Side effects
Both Wegovy® and Mounjaro® can be effective for weight loss, but many people experience some mild to moderate side effects. We’ll also go through some more serious, though rare, risks and warnings associated with both medications.
Common side effects
Most people experience these mild to moderate side effects when first starting treatment or when their dose is increased. They tend to subside as the body adjusts to the medication:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Stomach pain or bloating
- Fatigue
Learn how to manage the side effects of Wegovy® and Mounjaro®.
Rare but serious side effects and warnings
Although rare, some people may experience more severe side effects that require immediate medical attention:
- Pancreatitis: Symptoms include severe abdominal pain that may spread to your back, with or without vomiting. Learn more about the risk of pancreatitis with semaglutide.
- Vision changes: Get immediate medical attention if you have sudden vision changes.
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): Symptoms include dizziness, shakiness, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, and jittery feelings. It is more common in people taking diabetes medications. Read about semaglutide and hypoglycemia here.
- Kidney problems: Dehydration from diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting can worsen kidney function. Go to the emergency room if you experience reduced urination, swelling in your ankles or legs, fatigue, or shortness of breath.
- Gallbladder problems: Watch for upper abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, or clay-colored stools, which could indicate gallbladder issues.
- Allergic reaction: Symptoms include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, and a rapid heartbeat. Seek immediate emergency care if you suspect a reaction.
- Thyroid tumors or cancer: Both medications carry an FDA-boxed warning about the potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. Although this was observed in animal studies and not yet confirmed in humans, patients with a personal or family history of MTC or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should not use these medications.
For a full breakdown of potential risks, see the Wegovy® safety information and Mounjaro® safety information.
Wegovy® vs. Mounjaro®: Which one is safer?
Both Wegovy® and Mounjaro® are considered safe and effective for most people when used as prescribed and under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Each medication has been studied in large clinical trials and has shown strong benefits for weight loss and metabolic health.
To stay safe while using either medication, it’s important to start with a low dose and increase it gradually as directed. This helps your body adjust and can reduce the risk of side effects like nausea, vomiting, or fatigue.
Regular check-ins with your doctor are key—they can monitor your progress, adjust your dose as needed, and catch any potential complications early. It’s also essential to stay hydrated and let your provider know if you experience any unusual symptoms.
Choosing between Wegovy® or Mounjaro®: Which is right for you?
Deciding between Wegovy® (semaglutide) and Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) depends on several factors. Here’s what to consider when making your choice:
| Criteria | Wegovy® | Mounjaro® |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Novo Nordisk | Eli Lilly |
| Effectiveness for weight loss | Average weight loss of 14.9% of body weight over 68 weeks with the maximum dose | Average weight loss of 21% of body weight over 72 weeks with the maximum dose |
| Insurance coverage | Unlikely to be covered for weight loss | Unlikely to be covered for weight loss, might be covered for diabetes |
| Price (without insurance) | $1,350 per month for all doses: 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg. 1.7 mg, and 2.4 mg. If you get Wegovy® through NovoCare Pharmacy, you will pay $499 per month. | $1,080 for all doses: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg. Zepbound®: $1,060 (list price) (contains the same active ingredients and dose amounts) If you get Zepbound® in vial and syringe format through LilyDirect, you’ll pay $349 (2.5 mg) and $499 (5, 7, 10 mg). |
The right choice depends on your health history, insurance situation, and personal preferences. Consulting with your healthcare provider can help you determine which medication best aligns with your goals, budget, and lifestyle.
Alternatives to Wegovy® and Mounjaro®
Wegovy® and Mounjaro® are two of the most well-known medications for weight management, but they’re not the only options available. If you’re unable to access these drugs due to cost, insurance limitations, or side effects, there are several other medications that may help support weight loss.
| Medication | Brand names and uses | Cost per month (without insurance) | Effectiveness | How it’s taken |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide – GLP-1 receptor agonist – Same active ingredient as Wegovy®. | Ozempic®: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss Rybelsus®: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss | Ozempic®: $998 Learn more Rybelsus®: $998 Learn more | Ozempic®: People lost an average of 15% of body weight in 68 weeks with injectable semaglutide Rybelsus®: People lost about 4% of their body weight | Ozempic®: Weekly injection Rybelsus®: Daily pill |
| Tirzepatide – GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist – Same active ingredient as Mounjaro® | Zepbound®: weight loss and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) | Zepbound®: Pens: $1,087 Vials: $349 (2.5 mg) $499 (5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg) Learn more | People lost an average of 21% of body weight at 72 weeks. | Weekly injection |
| Liraglutide – GLP-1 receptor agonist | Victoza®: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss Saxenda®: weight loss and heart disease Generic liraglutide: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss | Victoza®: $800 to $1,400 Saxenda®: $1,350 Learn more. Generic liraglutide: $470 – $700 | People lost an average of 5-6% of body weight in one year. | Daily injection |
Other medications
GLP-1s aren’t the only options. These medications work in different ways and can be prescribed to help people lose weight if needed.
| Medication | Brand names | Cost per month (without insurance) | Effectiveness | How it’s taken |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metformin (off-label weight loss) | Glucophage®, Fortamet®, Glumetza® | Generic: $4–$15 Brand name: $100–$500+ Learn more. | People lost an average of about 6% of their body weight over six months while taking metformin. | Pill taken up to two times daily |
| Phentermine | Lomaira®, Adipex-P® | $27-$100 | About 80% of people with a BMI of 30 or more lost at least 5% of their body weight in 6 months. | Daily pill |
| Diethylpropion | Tenuate®, Tenuate Dospan® | $40-$85 | People lost an average of 10% of their body weight in 6 months. | Pill taken one to three times daily |
| Naltrexone and bupropion | Contrave® | $600-$800 CurAccess™: $99 | People lost an average of 7 to 8% of their body weight in a year. | Pill taken up to twice daily |
| Orlistat | Xenical®, Alli® | $50-$800 | People in a study lost about 10% of body weight after taking Orlistat for 1 year. | Pill taken three times daily with meals. |
Finding the right medication depends on your health needs, goals, and insurance coverage. Whether you choose a GLP-1 option or another FDA-approved treatment, working with a healthcare provider can help you determine the best approach for long-term weight management.
Take control of your weight loss journey
So, what’s the bottom line when you’re trying to decide between Wegovy® and Mounjaro®? Both are impressive for weight loss, but Mounjaro® may help you lose more, potentially up to 21% of your body weight, compared to Wegovy®‘s 15%. That’s because Mounjaro® works on two hormones rather than just one. Of course, neither option is inexpensive without insurance, but there are ways to reduce those costs depending on how you fill your prescription.
Just remember, these medications aren’t magic—they work best when you’re also making healthier food choices and staying active. Most people experience some side effects when they first start taking the medication, but these typically improve over time. Both medications come with some serious (though rare) risks to be aware of. Ultimately, this is a conversation you should have with your doctor, who is familiar with your specific health situation and can help determine which option is most suitable for you and your weight loss goals.
Ozempic®, Mounjaro®, Victoza®, and metformin are not FDA-approved for weight loss but are often prescribed off-label for this purpose.
