Wegovy vs Mounjaro: Full Comparison (2026)
How does Wegovy (Semaglutide) compare to Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)? We break down the weight loss data, pricing, side effects, and who each medication is best suited for.
Wegovy (Semaglutide, GLP-1 receptor agonist) and Mounjaro (Tirzepatide, Dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist) work through different mechanisms. Wegovy is FDA-approved for chronic weight management and cardiovascular risk reduction with 15-17% of body weight average weight loss at $1,349/mo. Mounjaro is approved for type 2 diabetes with 15-22% of body weight average weight loss at $1,023/mo.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Wegovy | Mounjaro |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide |
| Mechanism | GLP-1 receptor agonist | Dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist |
| FDA Approved For | Chronic weight management, Cardiovascular risk reduction | Type 2 diabetes |
| Doses | 0.25mg to 2.4mg (weekly injection), oral pill available | 2.5mg to 15mg (weekly injection) |
| Administration | Weekly subcutaneous injection or daily oral pill | Weekly subcutaneous injection |
| Avg. Weight Loss | 15-17% of body weight | 15-22% of body weight |
| Monthly Price | $1,349 | $1,023 |
| Oral Available | Yes | No |
| Year Approved | 2021 | 2022 |
Prices reflect typical self-pay costs without insurance. Actual costs vary by pharmacy, location, and insurance plan. Last updated March 2026.
Which Produces More Weight Loss?
Both Wegovy and Mounjaro show similar average weight loss results (15-17% of body weight vs 15-22% of body weight). Individual results will vary depending on dosing, diet, exercise, and other factors.
FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management. Higher dose of semaglutide than Ozempic. Oral version launched January 2026.
First dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist. Approved for type 2 diabetes, used off-label for weight loss. Generally shows greater weight loss than semaglutide alone.
Which Costs Less?
At list price, Mounjaro is the more affordable option at $1,023/month compared to $1,349/month for Wegovy. However, actual out-of-pocket costs depend heavily on your insurance plan. Wegovy with insurance: $25-$200/month typical copay. Mounjaro with insurance: $25-$200/month with Lilly savings card.
Oral pill: $149/month at lowest dose (launched Jan 2026)
Eli Lilly savings card for eligible patients
Side Effects Comparison
Both Wegovy (GLP-1 receptor agonist) and Mounjaro (Dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist) share similar gastrointestinal side effects, which are the most commonly reported:
- Nausea (most common for both medications)
- Diarrhea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Decreased appetite
- Headache, fatigue, dizziness (less common)
Serious but rare side effects for both include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and kidney issues. Both carry warnings about medullary thyroid carcinoma risk based on animal studies. Always discuss your full medical history with your doctor before starting either medication.
Which Should You Choose?
The best choice depends on your diagnosis, insurance coverage, weight loss goals, and personal preferences. Here is our general guidance:
- -Your primary goal is weight loss (FDA-approved indication)
- -You prefer an oral option over injections
- -You prefer a daily dosing routine
- -You have type 2 diabetes (on-label use, better insurance coverage)
- -Cost is a concern ($1,023/month at list price)
- -You want the dual GLP-1/GIP mechanism for potentially greater efficacy
- -You prefer the convenience of once-weekly dosing
Find the Best GLP-1 Provider for You
Compare verified telehealth programs that prescribe Wegovy, Mounjaro, and other FDA-approved GLP-1 medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro?
Switching between Wegovy and Mounjaro is possible but requires medical supervision since they contain different active ingredients (Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide). Your doctor will determine the appropriate starting dose and titration schedule for the new medication.
Which is better for weight loss: Wegovy or Mounjaro?
Both medications show similar average weight loss results. Wegovy averages 15-17% of body weight and Mounjaro averages 15-22% of body weight. Individual results depend on dosing, lifestyle, and other factors.
Is Wegovy cheaper than Mounjaro?
At list price, Mounjaro ($1,023/month) is less expensive than Wegovy ($1,349/month). With insurance, costs vary significantly. Wegovy: $25-$200/month typical copay. Mounjaro: $25-$200/month with Lilly savings card.
Do Wegovy and Mounjaro have the same side effects?
Both medications share similar gastrointestinal side effects (nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation) as these are common to GLP-1 receptor agonists. However, since they contain different active ingredients, there may be differences in frequency and severity. Discuss your medical history with your doctor to determine which has a better safety profile for you.
Does insurance cover Wegovy and Mounjaro?
Coverage varies by plan. Wegovy is FDA-approved for chronic weight management and cardiovascular risk reduction — insurance coverage is typically better for on-label use. Mounjaro is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes. Check with your specific insurance plan and ask your doctor about prior authorization requirements.