Mounjaro vs. Wegovy: Which Weight Loss Injection Should You Choose?

When considering weight loss medication options, Wegovy (active ingredient Semaglutide) and Mounjaro (active ingredient Tirzepatide) stand out for their innovative approaches. Both medications are administered weekly via subcutaneous injections and are designed to support individuals in achieving and maintaining their target weight.

However, while Wegovy operates through a single mechanism targeting the GLP-1 receptor, Mounjaro offers a dual-action approach by also affecting the GIP receptor, potentially offering a broader range of effects on weight management.

What are the key differences?

How they work:

Wegovy: Targets the GLP-1 receptor to aid in weight management. This works by slowing the emptying of your stomach after a meal which makes you feel ‘fuller’ for longer and acting on parts of the brain which control cravings.

Mounjaro: Dual-action, targeting both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors, which may offer an enhanced effect on weight management. In addition to how Wegovy works, Mounjaro also helps the body utilise built up fat stores as a source of energy.

Dosing Progression:

Wegovy: Doses increase from 0.25mg to 2.4mg, each administered in separate pens.

Mounjaro: Begins at 2.5mg and goes up to 15mg, with each dose also provided in individual pens. This allows for a broader dosing range to tailor treatment more closely to the individual's needs.

Administration

Wegovy: Requires a simple injection procedure, with priming on the first dose of each pen.

Mounjaro: This pen needs to be primed before every dose and a sterile swab must be used before attaching the needle, adding an extra step to ensure safety and cleanliness.

Considerations for Women of Childbearing Age:

Wegovy: For Wegovy, it's important for women who could become pregnant to use reliable birth control while taking the medication. Should pregnancy occur, stop using Wegovy right away. Additionally, if you're considering getting pregnant, it's advised to stop taking Wegovy 2 months in advance. Wegovy is not recommended for use during breastfeeding.

Mounjaro: With Mounjaro, women of childbearing potential should also practice effective contraception. For those using pill-based birth control, it's necessary to add a barrier method, such as condoms, during the first 4 weeks of starting Mounjaro and for 4 weeks following any dose increase. Alternatively, you might consider switching from oral contraceptives to a non-pill form of birth control, like an IUD or injection. If pregnancy occurs, discontinuation of Mounjaro is immediate. Before trying to conceive, stopping Mounjaro 8 weeks prior is recommended. Like Wegovy, Mounjaro should not be used while breastfeeding.

Understanding these key differences can help individuals, in consultation with their healthcare providers, make informed decisions that align with their health goals and lifestyle preferences. For a deeper dive into popular weight loss medications, click here.