GLP-1 Medication Comparison: Mounjaro vs Ozempic vs Wegovy
A side-by-side comparison of the most popular GLP-1 and GIP agonist medications for weight loss and diabetes management, including dosing, mechanism, and clinical trial results.
What is the difference between Mounjaro and Ozempic?
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) targets both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, while Ozempic (semaglutide) targets only GLP-1. In clinical trials, Mounjaro showed greater average weight loss (~22.5% vs ~15%). Mounjaro comes in 6 strengths (2.5-15mg), while Ozempic maxes out at 2mg.
Medication Comparison Table
Compare the key characteristics of the five most prescribed weight loss and diabetes injectable medications:
| Medication | Active Ingredient | Mechanism | Approved For | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mounjaro | Tirzepatide | Dual GIP/GLP-1 | Type 2 diabetes | Weekly |
| Zepbound | Tirzepatide | Dual GIP/GLP-1 | Weight management | Weekly |
| Ozempic | Semaglutide | GLP-1 only | Type 2 diabetes | Weekly |
| Wegovy | Semaglutide | GLP-1 only | Weight management | Weekly |
| Saxenda | Liraglutide | GLP-1 only | Weight management | Daily |
Dosing Comparison
Each medication has its own titration schedule and dose range. Starting doses are low to minimize side effects, and are gradually increased over weeks or months.
| Medication | Starting Dose | Max Dose | Delivery Device |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mounjaro | 2.5 mg | 15 mg | KwikPen (multi-dose, click-based) |
| Zepbound | 2.5 mg | 15 mg | Prefilled pen |
| Ozempic | 0.25 mg | 2 mg | Prefilled pen |
| Wegovy | 0.25 mg | 2.4 mg | Prefilled pen |
| Saxenda | 0.6 mg | 3 mg | Prefilled pen |
Dual vs Single Receptor Agonists
The key distinction between these medications is whether they target one or two hormone receptors. This affects both efficacy and how the body responds to treatment.
Dual GIP/GLP-1 Agonist (Tirzepatide)
Targets both GIP and GLP-1 receptors for potentially greater metabolic effects:
- • Greater average weight loss in clinical trials
- • Enhanced insulin sensitivity through dual pathway
- • Available as Mounjaro (diabetes) and Zepbound (weight loss)
GLP-1 Only Agonist (Semaglutide, Liraglutide)
Targets the GLP-1 receptor for proven appetite suppression and metabolic benefits:
- • Well-established safety profile with over 10 years of data
- • Available in multiple formulations (weekly and daily)
- • Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus (oral), Saxenda
Which GLP-1 medication causes the most weight loss?
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) has shown the greatest weight loss in clinical trials, with an average of 22.5% body weight loss at the highest dose (15mg). Semaglutide (Wegovy) averages ~15%, and liraglutide (Saxenda) averages ~8%. Individual results vary.
Weight Loss Results from Clinical Trials
Average body weight reduction at the highest approved dose, as reported in major clinical trials:
Mounjaro (15 mg)
SURMOUNT-1 trial, 72 weeks
Wegovy (2.4 mg)
STEP 1 trial, 68 weeks
Ozempic (2 mg)
SUSTAIN trials, 40-56 weeks
Saxenda (3 mg)
SCALE trial, 56 weeks
Results are averages from clinical trials with diet and exercise. Individual results vary significantly. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from Ozempic to Mounjaro?
Is Mounjaro the same as Zepbound?
Which has fewer side effects, Mounjaro or Ozempic?
Do GLP-1 medications work without diet and exercise?
Related Articles
Using a Mounjaro KwikPen?
Calculate exactly how many clicks you need for your dose, including custom dose splitting for any pen strength.
Open Dose Calculator