What is the Difference Between Mounjaro and Wegovy?

 A close-up of a hand holding two GLP-1 injection pens, with visible dosage markings of 1 mg.
Ashwini Gupta
Medically Reviewed
Ashwini Gupta
Team Lead - Health Coach
March 24, 2025

Mounjaro and Wegovy are two FDA-approved medications used for weight management and type 2 diabetes management. While both drugs are designed to assist in weight loss, they work through different mechanisms and are approved for different primary indications. Understanding their differences can help patients and healthcare providers choose the most appropriate option.

Mounjaro vs. Wegovy

Both Mounjaro and Wegovy belong to a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists; however, Mounjaro is unique as it also targets a second receptor (GIP). This difference impacts how the drugs work in the body and their effectiveness in weight loss and glucose regulation. Additionally, their approved uses, dosages, and side effect profiles differ, which makes them suited for different patient needs.

What is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It is primarily approved for managing type 2 diabetes but has shown significant weight loss benefits, leading to its off-label use for obesity treatment. Mounjaro improves blood sugar control, slows digestion, and reduces appetite, contributing to weight loss and better metabolic health.

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist specifically approved for chronic weight management in individuals with obesity or overweight individuals with weight-related conditions. It mimics the natural hormone GLP-1 to enhance satiety, reduce hunger, and slow gastric emptying, leading to significant weight loss over time.

Indications

Drug

Approved Indications

Mounjaro

Type 2 diabetes management (FDA-approved); weight loss (off-label)

Wegovy

Chronic weight management (FDA-approved)

Effectiveness

Mounjaro

Wegovy

Dosing and Administration

Drug

Initial Dose

Maintenance Dose

Administration

Mounjaro

2.5 mg once weekly

5 mg to 15 mg once weekly

Subcutaneous injection

Wegovy

0.25 mg once weekly

2.4 mg once weekly

Subcutaneous injection

Side Effects

Common Side Effects

Serious Side Effects

Safety and Contraindications

Mounjaro and Wegovy are not recommended for individuals with a history of:

Cost and Insurance Coverage

Drug

Insurance Coverage

Mounjaro

Often covered for diabetes, but limited for weight loss

Wegovy

More likely covered for obesity treatment, varies by provider


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Summary

Mounjaro and Wegovy are both effective for weight loss, but they have different primary uses and mechanisms of action. Mounjaro is approved for type 2 diabetes but has superior weight loss effects due to its dual action on GIP and GLP-1 receptors. Wegovy, on the other hand, is specifically designed for chronic weight management and is a potent GLP-1 receptor agonist. Choosing between the two depends on individual health goals, insurance coverage, and tolerance to side effects.

FAQs

1. Which is better for weight loss: Mounjaro or Wegovy?

Mounjaro has demonstrated greater weight loss in clinical trials, but Wegovy is specifically FDA-approved for obesity treatment.

2. Can I use Mounjaro for weight loss if I don’t have diabetes?

Yes, but it would be an off-label use since Mounjaro is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, not obesity.

3. Are Mounjaro and Wegovy covered by insurance?

Coverage varies. Mounjaro is often covered for diabetes, while Wegovy is more commonly covered for weight loss.

4. Can I switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro?

Yes, but it should be done under medical supervision to manage dosing and minimize side effects.

5. Do Mounjaro and Wegovy have long-term risks?

Potential risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and thyroid tumors (in animal studies), requiring careful monitoring by healthcare providers

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is compiled from publicly available sources. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of this information.

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