Wegovy vs Mounjaro for weight loss – pros & cons?
Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) became popular soon after their introduction into weight loss. This is because people experienced significant weight loss when they used these medications.
Several types of weight loss injections are available, but these two are particularly beneficial to many people. Though Wegovy and Mounjaro share some common properties, they have many more differences, including the fact that these medications are authorized for different uses by the FDA.
Wegovy vs. Mounjaro
The active ingredient in Wegovy is semaglutide, which is a glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, and the active ingredient in Mounjaro is tirzepatide, which is a dual receptor agonist—glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).
Wegovy was approved by the FDA for weight loss and to reduce the risk of developing severe heart problems. Whereas Mounjaro is approved by the FDA to treat type 2 diabetes in adults and not officially approved for weight loss.
Adults and adolescents who are 12 years and above can use Wegovy for weight loss. It is also known to lower the likelihood of cardiovascular problems in overweight or obese people. People aged 18 and above can use this Mounjaro medication.
Wegovy is mostly available as single-use injector pens, whereas Mounjaro is available as both single-use injector pens and single-use vials. The dosage given varies greatly; at first, you may be given smaller doses and then gradually increased.
Pros & cons of Wegovy (semaglutide)
Wegovy (semaglutide) is a highly effective and popular weight loss medication usually given once a week. It also helps with obesity-related health conditions.
Pros of Wegovy
The main advantage of this weight loss medication is that it is a non-surgical solution for losing weight.
Clinical trials show noticeable and persistent weight loss, especially when blended with lifestyle changes like maintaining a special diet and regular exercise. Consistent use of these medications can help people to lose 15% or more excess weight in 12 to 18 months.
Wegovy can reduce major cardiovascular problems like heart attack, stroke, cholesterol levels, etc. It is said to be the first weight-loss medication recognized to manage heart problems along with obesity or overweight.
Beyond weight loss, Wegovy can also improve lower blood pressure, reduce waist size, and help to maintain better cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
This medication mimics the GLP-1 hormone and works by controlling your appetite. GLP-1 is the hormone that plays a key role in signalling your brain to tell you you’re full after eating. So Wegovy can reduce hunger and food cravings, which helps you to stick to a lower-calorie diet.
The medication has a convenient dosage schedule, as it is injected once a week.
Cons of Wegovy
Some people might experience gastrointestinal problems like nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, and bloating, especially during the initial stage of taking the medication or while increasing the dose.
Rare side effects
- Pancreatitis—an inflammatory condition of the pancreas.
- Gallstones and gallbladder inflammation.
- Severe dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea might result in acute kidney injury.
- Elevated heart rate.
- Risk of developing thyroid C-cell tumours.
- Wegovy medication might be expensive, and health insurance coverage might also be limited.
Any rapid weight loss method, including weight loss injections, can put you at risk of losing muscle mass, which is why it is important to take adequate protein and engage in resistance training. The chances of regaining weight after discontinuing medication are highly possible, especially without sustained lifestyle changes.
Pros and cons of Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
Though it was approved for treating type 2 diabetes, experts suggest it for obese people off-label for weight loss.
Pros of Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
The main advantage of this weight loss medication is that it is a non-surgical solution for losing weight.
According to clinical studies, tirzepatide medications offer 20% to 23% of excess weight reduction within 12 to 18 months, which is higher compared to GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Ozempic).
Unlike other weight-loss injections, it has dual properties, as it targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, which helps in the effective management of blood sugar and appetite.
Designed to manage type 2 diabetes by improving blood sugar levels (lowering HbA1c levels) and stabilising glucose.
It suppresses appetite, which means it controls hunger and food cravings, resulting in reduced calorie consumption and better portion control.
Over time, this medication can also improve good cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and insulin resistance.
The medication has a convenient dosage schedule, starting with 2.5 mg once a week.
Cons of Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
Some people might experience gastrointestinal problems like nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea. They are common and frequently observed during dose escalation.
As it is used off-label for weight loss, insurance policies might cover the cost, which may be very expensive.
Though it produces promising results, the long-term safety and effectiveness for people who use it for weight loss are still being studied.
This medication might not be an ideal option for people with certain types of cancer or genetic disorders that cause endocrine tumors (MEN 2 syndrome).
Any rapid weight loss method, including weight loss injections, can put you at risk of losing muscle mass, which is why it is vital to take proper nutrition and resistance training.
Not everyone with obesity might be an ideal candidate for weight loss injections because it depends on many factors. However, it is highly recommended to consult an expert weight loss surgeon if you are considering any weight loss treatment. They will evaluate your condition, including your general health, and suggest the best weight loss treatment for you. Call +91 91777 77715 to book your appointment with one of the best non-surgical weight loss doctors in Hyderabad.
