If you are considering medical weight loss support, you have likely heard of Wegovy and Mounjaro. Both are injectable treatments that have shown impressive results in clinical trials. But which one is right for you? Here is an honest, pharmacist-led comparison.
How They Work
Both medications belong to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. They mimic a hormone your body produces naturally after eating, which helps you feel full and reduces appetite.
- Wegovy (semaglutide) — Works on the GLP-1 receptor. Approved for weight management in adults with a BMI of 30 or above (or 27+ with weight-related health conditions).
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide) — Works on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors (dual action). This dual mechanism may offer enhanced appetite suppression and blood sugar regulation.
Expected Weight Loss
Clinical trials show significant results with both treatments when combined with diet and exercise:
- Wegovy — Average weight loss of 15% of body weight over 68 weeks in the STEP trials
- Mounjaro — Average weight loss of up to 22.5% of body weight over 72 weeks in the SURMOUNT trials
Individual results vary based on starting weight, diet, physical activity, and adherence to the programme.
How Are They Taken?
Both are once-weekly subcutaneous injections using a pre-filled pen. The dose is gradually increased over several weeks to minimise side effects:
- Wegovy — Starts at 0.25mg weekly, escalating to a maintenance dose of 2.4mg over 16 weeks
- Mounjaro — Starts at 2.5mg weekly, escalating to a maximum of 15mg over several months
Common Side Effects
Both treatments share similar side effects, mostly gastrointestinal:
- Nausea (most common, usually improves over time)
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Abdominal discomfort
- Headache
- Fatigue during dose escalation
These are usually mild to moderate and tend to settle as your body adjusts. The gradual dose increase helps reduce these effects.
Cost Comparison
Neither Wegovy nor Mounjaro are currently available on the NHS for weight loss alone. Private pharmacy pricing typically ranges from:
- Wegovy — From approximately £149-£299 per month depending on dose
- Mounjaro — From approximately £159-£319 per month depending on dose
Which Should You Choose?
The best choice depends on your individual circumstances, medical history, and goals. Mounjaro’s dual-action mechanism may offer greater weight loss for some patients, while Wegovy has a longer track record and more real-world data. Your pharmacist can help you understand which option suits your health profile.
Get Started at Heaton Road Pharmacy
Our weight loss clinic offers both Wegovy and Mounjaro with full pharmacist-led consultations. We will assess your eligibility, discuss your goals, and create a personalised plan. Visit our weight loss page or call us to book your consultation.
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