Key Takeaways:
- Wegovy (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that reduces appetite and slows digestion to promote weight loss.
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual GIP and GLP-1 agonist offering enhanced fat metabolism, appetite suppression, and blood sugar control.
- Clinical trials show Mounjaro achieves up to 21% average weight loss, compared to Wegovy’s 15%, over similar treatment durations.
- Wegovy is ideal for patients seeking an FDA-approved, long-term weight-management drug, while Mounjaro suits those with diabetes or insulin resistance.
- Common side effects include nausea, fatigue, constipation, and mild bloating; both require medical supervision for safe use.
Introduction
For many people, sheer willpower, strict diets, and endless gym sessions don’t quite deliver lasting weight-loss results. That’s where prescription medications come in!
Under medical supervision, these treatments have helped thousands lose substantial weight safely—and perhaps just as importantly, sustainably.
This article seeks to compare two weight-loss medications: Wegovy and Mounjaro. While they share similarities, they differ in their underlying mechanisms and results.
What is Wegovy (Semaglutide)?
Made by Novo Nordisk and FDA-approved in 2021, Wegovy is a weight-loss medication that helps individuals manage obesity and excess weight. In practice, it works best when combined with a healthy diet and exercise by mimicking the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) hormone.
Fundamentally, the GLP-1 gut hormone helps regulate appetite by reducing hunger and calorie intake. Thereby, supporting sustainable weight loss by promoting a feeling of fullness and reducing overeating.
What is Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)?
Created by Eli Lilly, Mounjaro was originally approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, over time, it gained attention for its effectiveness in supporting weight loss—alongside glucose management.
Unlike Wegovy, Mounjaro functions as a dual GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist. This means it provides enhanced appetite suppression and improved glucose control.
In practice, its dual hormone action helps significantly reduce hunger more effectively while regulating blood sugar levels. Thereby, benefiting both weight loss and diabetes management.
Wegovy vs Mounjaro: How Do They Work?
Both medications ‘nudge’ your metabolism to behave as if it’s been “reset.” They essentially slow the stomach’s emptying rate and tell your brain that you’ve had enough.
However, their distinctions are subtle but important:
- Wegovy (GLP-1 only): Slows digestion, curbs appetite, and promotes satiety.
- Mounjaro (GIP + GLP-1): Adds glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide action for enhanced fat metabolism and insulin regulation.
Overall, Mounjaro’s dual-action formula may provide an extra edge in weight reduction compared to Wegovy’s single-action approach.
Wegovy vs Mounjaro for Weight-Loss Results
Both Wegovy and Mounjaro help appreciably reduce hunger and improve metabolic function to support weight loss. Thereby, making it easier for individuals to consume fewer calories. Here is a quick comparison of the outcomes of both weight-loss treatments.
Clinical Results at a Glance
During clinical trials, Wegovy demonstrated an average body weight reduction of about 15% over a 68-week period. Mounjaro, on the other hand, showed even more impressive results, reporting weight loss of up to 21%. These results marked it as the highest among GLP-1–based therapies.
Wegovy vs Mounjaro: Which Works Better for Weight Loss?
Although both Wegovy and Mounjaro produce notable weight loss outcomes, direct head-to-head clinical comparisons typically indicate that Mounjaro outperforms Wegovy.
Compared to those on Wegovy, a significant portion of Mounjaro users reached weight loss benchmarks faster, such as losing at least 20–25% of their body weight.
Individual reactions to these drugs, however, can differ depending on things like dosage, tolerance, and compliance with dietary and exercise regimens. As a result, the optimal choice is determined by personal medical factors and discussions with healthcare professionals.
Wegovy vs Mounjaro Cost in Malaysia
In Malaysia, the cost of Wegovy generally floats between RM 1,800 to RM 3,000 per month, depending on the clinic and dosage. Some packages also include medical consultation and ongoing support.
Mounjaro’s price in Malaysia typically falls between RM 1,800 and RM 6,000 per month. Similarly, the exact cost depends on the dose prescribed and the clinic.
Wegovy vs Mounjaro Side Effects and Safety
Both Wegovy and Mounjaro share several common side effects as the body adjusts to the medication. For instance, nausea, vomiting, mild headache, constipation, diarrhoea, and fatigue. Managing these side effects typically involves eating smaller meals, staying hydrated, and avoiding greasy foods.
Wegovy-specific side effects may include mild bloating or acid reflux in some users. Notably, Wegovy is contraindicated for patients with a history of thyroid C-cell tumours. This is principally due to its association with an increased risk of thyroid cancer.
Mounjaro tends to cause slightly higher rates of nausea and gastrointestinal upset, especially early in treatment. However, rare but serious cases of pancreatitis have been reported with its administration, necessitating close medical supervision during its use.
Wegovy vs Mounjaro: Which Is Right for You?
There’s no single “better” option — just a better fit.
- Wegovy: Best for patients seeking an FDA-approved weight-loss medication with proven long-term results.
- Mounjaro: Ideal for individuals with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance who also want to lose weight.
If you’re unsure, engage a qualified doctor to help tailor treatment to your BMI, health profile, and how your body tends to respond.
How to choose between Wegovy and Mounjaro?
The right choice between these two interventions largely depends on one’s body mass index (BMI), existing health conditions like diabetes, medication tolerance, and treatment goals.
As such, it’s imperative to consult with a qualified physician to assess your medical history and recommend the most appropriate medication.
Also read:
- Zepbound vs Mounjaro: What’s the Difference and Which Works Better for Weight Loss?
- Mounjaro vs Saxenda: Which Weight-Loss Injection Is More Effective?
Wegovy vs Mounjaro FAQ
Are Wegovy and Mounjaro the same drug?
No, Wegovy and Mounjaro aren’t the same drug. Wegovy contains semaglutide and targets the GLP-1 receptor only. On the other hand, Mounjaro contains tirzepatide and acts on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors.
Does Wegovy or Mounjaro help you lose more weight?
According to clinical trials, Mounjaro generally leads to more sustained weight loss compared to Wegovy.
Can you switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro?
Yes, patients can switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro. However, this has to be under strict medical supervision. This is because both drugs maintain different underlying mechanisms and dosing schedules.
Which has better long-term results — Wegovy or Mounjaro?
Existing long-term data currently suggest that Mounjaro may deliver superior weight loss outcomes due to its dual-action mechanism.
Do Wegovy and Mounjaro help with diabetes?
Yes, both medications assist in improving blood sugar control. Wegovy helps with glucose regulation, while Mounjaro offers enhanced glucose control.
Can Wegovy or Mounjaro cause weight regain if stopped?
Yes, stopping either medication often results in weight regain. This is because the drugs help suppress appetite and influence metabolism.
Conclusion
All things considered, Wegovy and Mounjaro are both specialised medications for weight loss. However, they differ primarily in their active ingredients and mechanisms.
Wegovy targets the GLP-1 receptor to reduce appetite and slow stomach emptying. Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, a dual agonist that activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors.
Both can be transformative, but neither is a magic fix. The people who do best tend to combine these medications with steady health habits and honest medical guidance.
At Clique Clinic, doctors don’t just hand over a prescription—they build a personalised plan that keeps you accountable, supported, and moving toward lasting health. After all, weight loss isn’t just about the scale. It’s about feeling more like yourself again.