WHAT TO CHOOSE?

A comprehensive comparison between Mounjaro and Wegovy weight loss treatments

Wegovy (Semaglutide)

GLP-1 receptor agonist

  • FDA approved for weight loss
  • Proven cardiovascular benefits
  • ~14% average weight loss
  • Lower starting costs

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)

Dual GIP + GLP-1 receptor agonist

  • Superior weight loss results
  • ~20% average weight loss
  • Cost-effective at maintenance
  • Dual-action mechanism

Mechanism & Approval

Wegovy

GLP-1 receptor agonist (semaglutide), approved in many countries for weight loss and for reducing cardiovascular risk in eligible adults.

Mounjaro

Dual GIP + GLP-1 receptor agonist, approved primarily for Type 2 diabetes, and also now approved for weight loss under the name Zepbound.

Effectiveness

SURMOUNT-5 Head-to-Head Trial Results (May 2025):

20.2%

Mounjaro Average Weight Loss

13.7%

Wegovy Average Weight Loss

Difference: ~6.5% statistically significant advantage for Mounjaro

Detailed Comparison

Factor Wegovy (Semaglutide) Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
Mechanism GLP-1 only GIP + GLP-1 (dual agonist)
Average Weight Loss ~14% body weight ~20% body weight
Side Effects GI symptoms, 6–8% stop rate Similar GI symptoms, similar stop rate
Cardiovascular Evidence Proven in obese/heart disease context Evidence in diabetes; not yet in obesity-only use
Price (UK, maintenance) ~£188–£299/month ~£199–£249/month
Regulatory Approval Specifically approved for weight loss & heart risk Approved mainly for diabetes; weight loss off-label or as Zepbound

Side Effects & Tolerability

  • Both share similar GI side effects (nausea, diarrhea, constipation)
  • Comparable discontinuation rates during dose escalation
  • Rare cases of pancreatitis and kidney issues reported

Cost Overview (UK Private)

Wegovy Pricing

Starter: £119–£199/month

Maintenance: £188–£299/month

Mounjaro Pricing

Starter: £129–£219/month

Maintenance: £199–£249/month

Cardiovascular Benefits

Wegovy

20% reduction in major cardiovascular events over ~3 years in patients with obesity and heart disease.

Established Evidence
Mounjaro

8% reduction in composite risk, 16% overall mortality reduction in diabetes trials.

Limited in Obesity Context

WHAT TO CHOOSE?

Choose Wegovy If:

  • You want a medication FDA-/MHRA-approved specifically for weight loss
  • You have existing heart disease or want CV benefit evidence
  • You prefer slightly lower starting costs
  • You want established regulatory approval for weight management

Choose Mounjaro If:

  • You're seeking maximum weight loss results (~20% vs ~14%)
  • You're comfortable with dual-action medication
  • You want cost efficiencies at maintenance doses
  • You don't require specific CV endpoint evidence

Important Patient Considerations

  • Medical Consultation: Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting either medication
  • Contraindications: Especially important if you have family history of thyroid cancer or medullary thyroid carcinoma
  • Lifestyle Support: Both drugs require healthy lifestyle support—diet, exercise, and long-term aftercare
  • Long-term Safety: Safety beyond trial durations is still under study

Final Take-Home

Maximum Weight Loss

Mounjaro/tirzepatide is the more effective option overall

Cardiovascular Benefits

Wegovy has the proven track record for CV risk reduction

Medical Guidance

Both require medical oversight and lifestyle changes