Ozempic and Mounjaro have emerged as prominent players among weight loss medications. These medications are designed to help with weight reduction, but they come from different classes of drugs and offer distinct mechanisms of action.
This article delves into the differences between Ozempic vs. Mounjaro, exploring their effectiveness, administration, and potential side effects. Understanding the difference between Ozempic and Mounjaro can guide you in choosing the most suitable medication for achieving your weight loss goals.
Key takeaways:
- Ozempic is a weight loss medication containing Semaglutide that belongs to the GLP-1 agonist class. This medication is manufactured by Novo Nordisk.
- Mounjaro, manufactured by Eli Lilly, has been approved to manage weight loss. Its active ingredient, tirzepatide, represents a new class of drugs known as dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists.
- While both Ozempic and Mounjaro are effective for weight loss, Mounjaro’s dual mechanism may offer enhanced results.
- The choice between Ozempic or Mounjaro for weight loss can be made after assessing their efficacy, side effects, and cost and a discussion with a healthcare provider.
Choosing the Right Medicine for Weight Loss: Ozempic vs. Mounjaro?
Here’s a quick summary of Ozempic vs. Mounjaro to help you make informed decisions.
Feature | Ozempic | Mounjaro |
---|---|---|
Indications | Prescribed for adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or those who are overweight (BMI ≥27) | Prescribed when the patient’s weight loss target is more aggressive. |
Mechanism of Action | Single: GLP-1 Receptor Agonist | Dual: GLP-1 & GIP Receptor Agonist |
Efficacy for Weight Loss | Effective for weight loss, but lower compared to Mounjaro | More effective for weight loss compared to Ozempic |
Metabolic Goals | Reductions in blood glucose levels and insulin resistance with Ozempic are lower than those with Mounjaro. | More significant reductions in blood glucose levels and insulin resistance than Ozempic. |
Dosage Form | Injectable | Injectable |
Frequency | Weekly | Weekly |
Side Effects | Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation, Fatigue | Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation, Fatigue |
Cost | $900 to $1,500 per month | $1,000 to $1,800 per month |
What Is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a medication used off-label for weight loss. It is the brand name for the generic medication Semaglutide. It is used alongside a balanced diet and exercise to manage obesity in adults. [1]
The primary ingredient of Ozempic, Semaglutide, belongs to the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonist class. It helps reduce weight by acting on the hunger center in your brain (specifically the hypothalamus), which decreases appetite and cravings. [2]
Ozempic also slows gastric emptying, keeping you feeling fuller for longer, thus reducing your appetite.
Clinical research has shown that these effects of Ozempic can lead to sustained and significant weight reduction. [3]
Ozempic is an injectable medication that comes in a solution prefilled inside disposable pens, making injections convenient. The pens are labeled with dosage strengths measured in milligrams of Semaglutide per milliliter (mg/mL).
The available dosage strengths of Ozempic weight loss include 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg. It is administered subcutaneously once a week.
What Is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is another medication used off-label for weight loss. Its active ingredient, tirzepatide, represents a new class of drugs known as dual GLP-1 and GIP (gastric inhibitory polypeptide) receptor agonists. [4]
This dual mechanism sets Mounjaro apart from other weight management medications, as it combines the effects of GLP-1 with GIP.
Mounjaro works by mimicking the actions of GLP-1 and GIP, both of which play a crucial role in regulating appetite. GLP-1 and GIP together help to enhance insulin secretion, reduce glucagon release, slow gastric emptying, and improve satiety, leading to significant weight loss.
Mounjaro weight loss has shown promising results in clinical trials, demonstrating substantial improvements in obesity management. It is administered through a once-weekly injection, providing a convenient dosing schedule.
As a newer medication, Mounjaro offers an innovative approach to managing obesity, potentially benefiting patients who have not achieved optimal results with other treatments.
Mechanism of Action for weight loss: GLP-1 vs. Dual GLP-1 and GIP Agonists
The mechanisms by which GLP-1 and a combination of GLP-1 and GIP contribute to weight loss differ in their pathways and effects on the body.
Here’s a detailed look at how each mechanism works:
GLP-1 Agonist (Ozempic)
GLP-1 is a hormone that plays a significant role in regulating appetite and controlling gastric emptying. GLP-1 agonists, such as Ozempic, act on the brain’s appetite control centers to reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness.
In addition, by slowing down the rate at which food leaves the stomach, GLP-1 agonists prolong satiety and reduce calorie consumption further. This helps decrease overall food intake, leading to weight loss. [4]
Dual GLP-1 and GIP Agonist (Mounjaro)
Mounjaro combines GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonism, offering a more comprehensive approach to weight management. [6]
GIP’s role in enhancing metabolic processes and influencing fat metabolism, alongside GLP-1’s appetite regulation in Mounjaro, can result in more effective weight loss and metabolic improvements. [5] [7]
Research indicates that the dual action of Mounjaro offers promising results in weight management, potentially outperforming GLP-1-only medications, including Ozempic. [6]
Ozempic vs. Mounjaro: Effectiveness for Weight Loss
When evaluating the effectiveness of Ozempic versus Mounjaro weight loss, it’s important to consider the unique mechanisms and results of each medication.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that participants could achieve up to 15% weight loss with Ozempic over 68 weeks. [1]
Mounjaro has shown even greater weight loss potential than Ozempic.
In the SURMOUNT-1 trial, participants treated with Mounjaro achieved an average weight loss of approximately 22.5% of their body weight over 72 weeks, which is higher than the weight loss seen with Ozempic. [8] [9]
This suggests that Mounjaro weight loss results might have a slightly greater magnitude compared to Ozempic. [10]
The higher effectiveness of weight loss with Mounjaro could be attributed to its dual-action mechanism. However, Ozempic has established safety and efficacy in weight management, making it a well-documented option.
Ozempic vs. Mounjaro Side Effects and Safety Considerations
When choosing between Ozempic vs. Mounjaro for weight loss, it is essential to consider their side effects and safety profiles.
Ozempic has a favorable safety profile, although it may cause a few side effects.
Some common side effects of Ozempic include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Pancreatitis
- Hypoglycemia (very low blood sugar)
- Gallbladder disease
- Increased risk of thyroid cancer
Some common side effects of Mounjaro include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Decreased appetite
- Possible thyroid issues
- Risk of pancreatitis
Among these two drugs, Ozempic has a well-documented long-term safety profile, with extensive clinical trials and real-world data supporting its use.
The long-term safety profile of Mounjaro is still being established. Initial studies and clinical trials show a safety profile comparable to other GLP-1 agonists, but long-term data is needed to confirm its overall safety.
Ozempic vs. Mounjaro: Cost Comparison
Both Ozempic and Mounjaro are expensive medications having similar price ranges. The cost of Ozempic is generally between $900 to $1,500 per month, while Mounjaro costs $1,000 to $1,800 per month.
Compounded versions of these drugs are generally more affordable than branded medications.
Injectable compounded Semaglutide prescribed under the Amp Health Program costs around $199 to $299 per month, while oral forms of compounded Semaglutide cost around $349 to $515 per month, based on your plan and dosage.
Are There Any Alternatives to Ozempic vs. Mounjaro for Weight Loss?
There are several alternative medications for weight loss.
Some other brands of Semaglutide you can consider include injectables, such as Wegovy, and oral tablets, such as Rybelsus. Tirzepatide is available as Zepbound, which is an injectable medication like Mounjaro.
Compounded Semaglutide is another good alternative for weight loss that could be worth considering. Compounded Semaglutide is available as injections, oral tablets, and drops. It offers a cost-effective substitute for Ozempic, Mounjaro, and other branded weight-loss drugs.
You can get in touch with our doctors at Amp Health to learn more about alternatives to weight loss with Ozempic or Mounjaro and whether compounded Semaglutide would be suitable for you.
FAQs
What is the Main Difference Between Ozempic and Mounjaro?
The main difference between Ozempic and Mounjaro lies in their primary ingredients and mechanisms of action.
Ozempic contains the active ingredient Semaglutide, which is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. The active ingredient of Mounjaro is Tirzepatide, which is a dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist.
Which is More Effective for Weight Loss, Ozempic or Mounjaro?
Mounjaro has shown greater weight loss potential in clinical trials than Ozempic. While Ozempic users typically achieve weight loss of up to 15% of body weight, Mounjaro users have demonstrated reductions of up to 22.5%.
Are There Any Cheaper Alternatives to Ozempic and Mounjaro?
Yes, compounded Semaglutide, available in the form of injections, tablets, and drops, can be cheaper alternatives to Ozempic and Mounjaro.
Conclusion
Choosing between Ozempic vs. Mounjaro involves evaluating their benefits and potential side effects in relation to your personal health needs.
Ozempic offers a well-established track record for supporting weight loss through its GLP-1 receptor agonist action. In contrast, Mounjaro introduces a dual-action approach by combining GLP-1 and GIP effects, which may offer enhanced weight loss benefits.
On the other hand, Ozempic has an established efficacy and safety profile. Mounjaro, being a newer drug, is yet to provide a comparable track record.
Ultimately, the choice between weight loss Ozempic or Mounjaro should be guided by your health goals, treatment preferences, and discussions with your healthcare provider.
You can talk to our healthcare experts to learn more about the difference between Ozempic and Mounjaro. You can also subscribe to our Amp Health Program, which includes consultations with our doctor, nutritionist, and coach, in addition to the monthly subscription of compounded Semaglutide ($79/month + cost of medication).
References:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33567185/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK544016/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8736331/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36751934/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9992880/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8994606/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551568/
- https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038
- https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/Journal-Scans/2024/07/15/14/37/semaglutide-vs-tirzepatide
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11231910/