Wegovy vs Mounjaro: What are the differences?

Navigating the world of weight management can be a complex task.

With a myriad of options available, it's crucial to understand the differences between treatments.

In this article, we delve into a comparative analysis of two MHRA-approved medications: Mounjaro vs Wegovy.

We aim to provide a comprehensive overview of these medications, their mechanisms of action, efficacy, and potential side effects.

This information is intended to assist individuals and healthcare professionals in making informed decisions about weight management options.

Remember, this article is for informational purposes only. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalised medical advice.

Understanding Wegovy and Mounjaro

Wegovy and Mounjaro are prescription medications designed for weight management.

They are intended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater. Alternatively, they can be used by those with a BMI of 27 or greater if they have at least one weight-related condition.

Wegovy, also known as semaglutide, is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist.

On the other hand, Mounjaro, or tirzepatide, is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist.

Both medications are administered via subcutaneous injection once a week.

Their effectiveness is enhanced when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

Wegovy: an overview

Wegovy is a medication that was approved by the MHRA (Medicine and Health Products Regulatory Agency) in September 2021.

It is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. This means it works by mimicking the functions of the natural hormones in your body that regulate appetite and food intake.

The active ingredient in Wegovy, semaglutide, is also used in a lower dose to treat type 2 diabetes.

Wegovy is administered via subcutaneous injection once a week.

It's important to follow the dosing schedule prescribed by a healthcare provider to minimise side effects and maximise effectiveness.

Mounjaro: an overview

Mounjaro is another medication used for weight management.

It is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. This means it works by acting on two different types of receptors in the body that regulate appetite and food intake.

The administration frequency and method of Mounjaro are similar to Wegovy's. It is also administered via subcutaneous injection once a week.

Mounjaro's unique mechanism of action may offer advantages over GLP-1 receptor agonists alone.

As with Wegovy, it's crucial to adhere to the dosing schedule prescribed by a healthcare provider to ensure the medication's effectiveness and minimise potential side effects.

Comparing Wegovy vs Mounjaro: mechanisms of action

When comparing Wegovy and Mounjaro, it's important to understand how they work.

Wegovy, as a GLP-1 receptor agonist, works by mimicking the effects of the natural hormone GLP-1. This hormone is released in the body after eating and helps to regulate blood sugar levels and slow down digestion.

On the other hand, Mounjaro is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. This means it acts on two different types of receptors in the body that regulate appetite and food intake.

The dual action of Mounjaro on GIP and GLP-1 receptors is a novel approach to the treatment of obesity. It's thought that this dual action may offer advantages over GLP-1 receptor agonists alone.

However, the exact benefits of this dual action are still being studied. As with all medications, the effectiveness of Mounjaro will vary from person to person.

Efficacy: clinical trials and results

Clinical trials are a crucial part of understanding the effectiveness of any medication.

For Wegovy, trials have shown significant weight loss in participants. In a study involving over 2,000 adults, those who took Wegovy lost an average of 12.4% of their body weight over 68 weeks. You can expect to lose between 5-15% of your starting body weight with Wegovy.

On the other hand, Mounjaro's clinical trials have also shown promising results. In a phase 2 trial, participants who took Mounjaro lost up to 11.7% of their body weight over 26 weeks. You can expect to lose between 15-20% of your starting body weight with Mounjaro.

However, it's important to note that these results are averages. The amount of weight loss can vary greatly from person to person.

Here are some key points from the clinical trials:

• Both Wegovy and Mounjaro showed significant weight loss in clinical trials.
• The trials involved a combination of the medication, a reduced-calorie diet, and increased physical activity.
• The long-term effects of both medications are still being studied.
• Real-world effectiveness may vary from the results seen in clinical trials.

Remember, while these results are promising, they should be considered alongside other factors such as side effects, cost, and individual health status.

Side effects and safety concerns

Like all medications, Wegovy and Mounjaro come with potential side effects.

These side effects can range from mild to severe.

For both medications, the most common side effects are gastrointestinal.

These can include nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain.

However, not everyone who takes these medications will experience these side effects.

Here are some key points to remember about the side effects of Wegovy and Mounjaro:

• The most common side effects are gastrointestinal.
• Not everyone will experience these side effects.
• If side effects are severe or persistent, it's important to contact a healthcare provider.
• Both medications may have other, less common side effects.
• Patients should discuss potential side effects with their healthcare provider before starting either medication.
• Regular follow-up appointments can help monitor for side effects and adjust dosages if necessary.

Common side effects of Wegovy

Wegovy's most common side effects are gastrointestinal.

These can include nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain.

Other side effects can include fatigue, dizziness, and increased heart rate.

Common side effects of Mounjaro

Mounjaro can also cause gastrointestinal side effects.

These can include nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain.

Other potential side effects can include fatigue, dizziness, and changes in appetite.

Usage and administration

Both Wegovy and Mounjaro are administered via subcutaneous injection.

This means they are injected under the skin, usually once a week.

It's important to follow the dosing schedule prescribed by a healthcare provider to minimise side effects and maximise effectiveness.

Cost considerations

The cost of Wegovy and Mounjaro can vary depending on several factors.

The pharmacy where the prescription is filled, and any available manufacturer discounts or patient weight management programs.

At Oxford Online Pharmacy the cost of Mounjaro UK price starts from £178.99 and the cost of Wegovy starts from £168.99.*

Patient experiences and reviews

Patient experiences with Wegovy and Mounjaro can provide valuable insights into the real-world use of these medications.

While clinical trials offer controlled data, patient reviews can offer a more personal perspective.

However, it's important to remember that individual experiences can vary widely, and what works well for one person may not work as well for another.

Where to buy Wegovy and Mounjaro

You can get these weight loss injections online from Oxford Online Pharmacy, simply complete our online doctor's consultation so our GMC registered doctors can assess your suitability for treatment. Your weight loss medicine could be delivered to your door as soon as the next day.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with a member of our trained healthcare team who will be happy to advise you on the best treatments for you and answer any questions you may have.

Making an informed decision: Wegovy vs Mounjaro

Choosing between Wegovy or Mounjaro is a decision that should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Both medications have shown promise in clinical trials, but individual health status, weight loss goals, and potential side effects should all be considered.

It's also important to remember that these medications are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.

Diet, exercise, and other lifestyle modifications should continue to be a primary focus, even when taking these medications.

Ultimately, the best choice will depend on the individual's unique needs and circumstances.

Key takeaways

In conclusion, both Wegovy and Mounjaro offer potential benefits for weight management.

Key points to remember include:

• Both medications are MHRA-approved for weight management.
• They work by different mechanisms but have similar administration methods.
• Side effects can include gastrointestinal issues.
• Neither medication is a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.
• The decision to use Wegovy or Mounjaro should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Wegovy and Mounjaro:

What are the main differences between Wegovy and Mounjaro?

Wegovy and Mounjaro are both MHRA-approved medications for weight management. However, they work differently. Wegovy is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, while Mounjaro is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist.

What are the side effects of Wegovy and Mounjaro?

Both medications can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain.

Can I use Wegovy or Mounjaro instead of diet and exercise?

No, these medications are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. They are most effective when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

References

1. Healthline, Wegovy vs Mounjaro: What you should know
2. Medical news today, Wegovy vs Mounjaro
3. EMC, Wegovy Patient Leaflet
4. EMC, Mounjaro patient leaflet

*Prices are as of 09.04.23 and are subject to change.