Wegovy vs Mounjaro
Editorial comparison of Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide). Same drug class context, trial-anchored data, no marketing claims.
Side-by-side
| Dimension | Wegovy | Mounjaro |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | semaglutide | tirzepatide |
| Manufacturer | Novo Nordisk | Eli Lilly |
| FDA approved | 2021 | 2022 |
| Mechanism | Semaglutide mimics GLP-1, a gut hormone released after meals. | Same as Zepbound — dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist. Strong glycemic effect plus weight loss. |
| Dosing | Titrated over 4-5 months: 0.25mg → 0.5mg → 1mg → 1.7mg → 2.4mg, increasing every 4 weeks. | Titrated 2.5mg → 15mg weekly over months, same schedule as Zepbound. |
| Cost | List price ~$1,350/month without insurance. | Similar to Zepbound — list ~$1,000/month, LillyDirect Self-Pay $399-549/month. |
| Pivotal trial result | 14.9% mean body-weight reduction at 68 weeks | 2.0–2.3% HbA1c reduction across SURPASS trials (15 mg dose) |
Full Wegovy review →
Once-weekly injectable semaglutide for chronic weight management. ~15% body weight loss in trials.
Full Mounjaro review →
FDA-approved tirzepatide for type 2 diabetes. Off-label for weight loss is common.
Frequently asked
Is Wegovy or Mounjaro more effective?+
In their pivotal trials, Wegovy reported 14.9% mean body-weight reduction at 68 weeks, while Mounjaro reported 2.0–2.3% HbA1c reduction across SURPASS trials (15 mg dose). Head-to-head results vary by patient profile, dose tolerated, and adherence — these trial numbers describe averages, not what every individual experiences.
How do Wegovy and Mounjaro compare on cost?+
Wegovy: List price ~$1,350/month without insurance. With Novo Nordisk's patient assistance program, eligible self-pay patients can access at $200-500/month. Insurance coverage is patchy and often requires prior authorization plus a documented weight-related comorbidity. Mounjaro: Similar to Zepbound — list ~$1,000/month, LillyDirect Self-Pay $399-549/month. Real out-of-pocket depends on insurance formulary tier, manufacturer savings programs, and whether a direct-pay channel is available.
Can I switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro?+
Switching between brand-name treatments in the same drug class is common, but the conversion is not always 1:1. Discuss the switch with your prescriber — they'll usually re-titrate dosing rather than substitute equivalent strengths directly.
Are Wegovy and Mounjaro the same drug?+
No. Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) are distinct medications from Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly respectively. They may share a drug class or mechanism but differ in active ingredient, dosing, and approved use.