Side Effects of Mounjaro and Wegovy
So, you’re thinking about weight loss pens, huh? You’ve heard the buzz about two heavy hitters taking the market by storm, and now you’re wondering which one you are going to use on your weight loss journey. Well, you’ve come to the right place! Envigore has you covered! We are here to break down everything that you really need to know about Mounjaro® and Wegovy® in the next five minutes. We’re about to give you a lot of information to help make you decision a whole lot easier for you, so you might want to sit back, relax, and get ready to dive into the details of these weight loss game-changers!
Firstly… What Is It That Mounjaro and Wegovy Do?
Both Mounjaro and Wegovy are part of a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. They help you lose weight by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (or just GLP-1). GLP-1 has an effect on how your body regulates blood sugar levels and appetite.
Mounjaro (the branded name for the drug tirzepatide) was initially approved for managing type 2 diabetes but has also been shown to have really remarkable weight loss benefits. It works by targeting two hormones in your body, GLP-1 and GIP (gastric inhibitory peptide), in order to help reduce your hunger, increase your feeling of fullness or satisfaction, and improve your insulin sensitivity. Tirzepatide was approved in 2023 for use in weight loss by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and can be used by the NHS.
Wegovy (the branded name for the drug semaglutide) is a specifically approved drug for weight loss and is designed to help people who are struggling with obesity. It works by suppressing your appetite, slowing your gastric emptying, and regulating your insulin levels in order to contribute to your weight reduction. Semaglutide was approved in 2023 for the use in weight loss by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and can be used by the NHS.
Ok, So How Are Mounjaro and Wegovy Administered?
Both Mounjaro and Wegovy are injectable medications, and they are administered using pre-filled pens. The pens are designed for subcutaneous injection (meaning that it is just under the skin), making them very easy to use at home and by yourself.
Here are the main details:
● Mounjaro is to be administered once a week using their pre-filled pen. It is currently available in a few different dosages: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, and 10 mg, 12.5mg and 15mg. The dosage will gradually increase depending on how well the patient tolerates the medication, but a patient must be on the same dose for 4 weeks.
● Wegovy is similar, in that it is also a weekly injection that needs to be administered using their pre-filled pen. It starts at a lower dose of 0.25 mg per week for the first four weeks, and then gradually increases (0.5mg, 1mg, 1.7mg) to the highest dose of 2.4 mg.
Got It, So What Is The Effectiveness of Mounjaro and Wegovy?
Both medications are highly effective in promoting weight loss, but there are still some differences in their overall impact:
● Mounjaro has shown particularly impressive results in clinical trials, with some studies indicating an average weight loss of 15% to 20% of total body weight after one year of use.
● Wegovy is also effective, with clinical trials showing a weight loss of about 10% to 16% of total body weight after 68 weeks of treatment.
While both medications are effective, Mounjaro may provide a slightly higher level of weight reduction, but individual results can vary, and as we consistently say, weight
loss is a personal journey and everyone is different. The success of both medications often depends on the patient’s commitment and their bodies’ acceptance to the prescribed dosage and accompanied by a balanced diet.
Is There A Cost Difference Between Mounjaro and Wegovy?
The costs of Mounjaro and Wegovy can vary depending on several factors like insurance coverage, location and dosage. However, here is a general overview between both drugs:
● Mounjaro tends to be a little more expensive solution compared to Wegovy, with the average price for a month’s supply typically between £130 to £250.
● Wegovy will generally cost a little bit less, with a month’s supply ranging from £100 to £180.
Do I Qualify for Mounjaro and Wegovy?
Both Mounjaro and Wegovy are designed for individuals with obesity, but in very specific situations, they are also approved for other specific uses.
● Mounjaro is approved for type 2 diabetes, but is now also being used for weight loss in people who are overweight or obese, particularly those with a BMI over 30 who also have risk factors like hypertension, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes.
● Wegovy is approved specifically for weight loss in adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or also for those with a BMI of 27 or higher who also have at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
If you’d like to know if you qualify for weight loss pens, complete this form, and our patient service team will get in touch with you to assess if you can be approved.
Should I Be Aware of Any Potential Side Effects of Mounjaro and Wegovy?
As with any medication, Mounjaro and Wegovy can cause side effects. Most side effects are mild and temporary, but some can be more serious. Here’s a breakdown:
Mounjaro Side Effects:
● Mild: Nausea, diarrhea, decreased appetite, vomiting, constipation, indigestion, and stomach (abdominal) pain.
● Serious: Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), gallbladder issues, kidney problems, and allergic reactions.
These are not all the possible side effects of Mounjaro. Patients should contact their doctor if they experience severe stomach pain, signs of dehydration, or difficulty breathing.
Wegovy Side Effects:
● Mild: Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, stomach (abdomen) pain, headache, tiredness (fatigue), upset stomach, dizziness, feeling bloated, belching, low blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, gas, stomach flu, heartburn, and runny nose or sore throat.
● Serious: Risk of thyroid cancer (although rare), pancreatitis, and gallbladder disease. These are not all the possible side effects of Wegovy. If a patient experiences any unusual or severe symptoms, they should seek medical attention immediately.
What Is The Recommendation: Mounjaro or Wegovy?
The choice between Mounjaro and Wegovy really depends on your individual health goals and circumstances. Both medications are GLP-1 agonists and are effective for weight loss and have shown promising clinically proven results. However, Mounjaro may be a better option for those who also have type 2 diabetes or are looking for slightly higher weight loss potential. Wegovy may be ideal for individuals specifically focused on weight loss, especially those with no underlying conditions. Both have similar side effects, mainly gastrointestinal, and are administered in the same way weekly.
If you want to talk to one of our dedicated team members to determine which medication is best suited to your needs, then please contact us and we will be happy to find the solution together.
Can I Switch Between Mounjaro and Wegovy?
In short, yes, but it’s complicated. If you’re considering the switch between Mounjaro and Wegovy, you need to contact us or your doctor. Even though both of these medications work in a similar way, they still target different hormones and may affect you in a different way compared to others. Our pharmacists and patient care team or your own doctor can help guide the transition and monitor for any side effects or complications that you might experience.
What Should I Remember From All This?
Mounjaro and Wegovy are both effective medications for your weight loss journey, offering slightly different benefits depending on your health goals. If you’re managing type 2 diabetes or aiming to lose weight, both medications can support your journey. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine which option is best for you.
Get in touch with our team today for essential support and guidance.