Article Summary
Wegovy® (semaglutide) and Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) are both effective FDA-approved weight loss medications, with Wegovy® being a GLP-1 receptor agonist and Mounjaro® targeting both GLP-1 and GIP hormones. While both offer significant weight loss benefits—around 15-20% reduction in body weight—Mounjaro® has shown a higher percentage of participants achieving at least a 5% weight reduction. The choice between them may depend on individual needs, as both medications are expensive.
The field of weight loss medications is rapidly evolving, and two of the latest FDA-approved medications, Wegovy® (semaglutide) and Mounjaro® (tirzepatide), are making waves for their efficacy in treating both type 2 diabetes and obesity. Let’s break down their key differences and similarities to help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions.
How Mounjaro® and Wegovy® Work
Both Mounjaro® and Wegovy® target hormones that control appetite and fullness, but they do so in slightly different ways. Wegovy® works as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, mimicking the action of GLP-1, a hormone that plays a crucial role in managing blood sugar levels. This GLP-1 hormone is produced in the small intestine and released into your bloodstream by your intestines after eating. GLP-1 encourages the pancreas to produce insulin while limiting the secretion of glucagon, a hormone that increases blood sugar. It also slows down the emptying of the stomach, which can help control appetite.
Mounjaro® takes it a step further by targeting two hormones, including GLP-1 hormone and the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) hormone. Mounjaro® is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, targeting both GIP and GLP-1. These two hormones work together to regulate both blood sugar and appetite.
Mounjaro® and Wegovy® Dosage and Administration
Both Wegovy® and Mounjaro® are administered through once-weekly injections. The dosing schedules are similar, with a gradual increase in dosage over time based on individual progress. Typically, patients start with a lower dose—0.25 mg for Wegovy® and 2.5 mg for Mounjaro®—and the dose is adjusted over time based on effectiveness and tolerability.
Effectiveness of Mounjaro® and Wegovy®
Both Wegovy® and Mounjaro® have demonstrated significant weight loss potential when combined with diet and exercise.
In the SURMOUNT-1 trial published the New England Journal of Medicine in 2022, researchers explored the effectiveness of Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) in over 2,500 participants with obesity but without diabetes. The trial lasted 72 weeks, during which participants were given Mounjaro® at different doses, followed a calorie-restricted diet, and maintained regular physical activity. At the end of the trial, participants using Mounjaro® experienced a 15-20% reduction in body weight, compared to just a 3% reduction in the placebo group.
In the STEP 1 trial, researchers evaluated the effectiveness of Wegovy® (semaglutide) in nearly 1,900 participants without diabetes. After 68 weeks of gradually increasing semaglutide doses, during which participants also followed a calorie-restricted diet and maintained regular physical activity, participants taking Wegovy® saw significant weight loss, with an average reduction of around 15%, similar to the SURMOUNT trial. Additionally, participants reported improved physical function, a unique finding not measured in the SURMOUNT trial.
While both medications produced similar overall weight loss, the data suggest that more participants on Mounjaro® achieved at least a 5% weight reduction compared to Wegovy®.
Cost and Insurance Coverage of Mounjaro® and Wegovy®
One of the more challenging aspects of Wegovy® and Mounjaro® is the cost of such treatments. Researchers conducted an analysis that showed that both weight loss medications come with a hefty price tag—around $17,000 for Mounjaro® and $22,000 for Wegovy® after a typical 72-week course. Some insurance plans may cover these medications, but coverage can be tricky.
Conclusions on Mounjaro® vs. Wegovy®
As highlighted above, both Wegovy® and Mounjaro® have shown impressive results in managing obesity, offering new hope for patients struggling with weight loss. Despite their differences in mechanisms, dosage, and cost, both weight loss medications can significantly aid weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes like a healthy diet and regular exercise. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider to decide which option best suits their individual needs.
If you are interested in learning more about GLP-1 medications or exploring if you are eligible for medication-assisted weight loss, reach out to us at Coby. Through Coby, you will work with expert providers that can guide you through the process. Find out if you’re eligible for weight loss medication here and kickstart your weight loss journey today!
