Wegovy or Mounjaro: the differences and how treatment is chosen
Medical comparison between Wegovy and Mounjaro: active ingredients, indication, results, tolerance and choice.
The essentials in less than a minute
- Wegovy contains semaglutide and acts on GLP-1; Mounjaro contains tirzepatide and acts on GIP and GLP-1.
- Clinical trial averages do not predict individual outcome nor are they a substitute for a direct comparison.
- The choice depends on indication, history, tolerance, concomitant medication, availability and follow-up.
- “More powerful” does not automatically mean “better for me.”
Basic differences
| Appearance | wegovy | Mounjaro |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide |
| Receivers | GLP-1 | GIP and GLP-1 |
| Injectable regimen | Weekly, with climbing | Weekly, with climbing |
| prescription | Yes | Yes |
| Election | Individual clinical assessment and follow-up. | |
Both are authorised as a complement to a diet with fewer calories and greater physical activity in people who meet the criteria. They are not cosmetic products or comparable purchases based on price alone.
What the studies say
The fundamental studies showed relevant average weight losses, but they were carried out in specific populations, doses and durations. Directly comparing a STEP 1 percentage to a SURMOUNT-1 percentage is illustrative, not proof of individual superiority.
Also important for an informed comparison are the proportion of people who discontinued, adverse effects, study conditions, and the lifestyle intervention that accompanied the medication.
How to decide in consultation
Diabetes, treatments that can cause hypoglycemia, digestive symptoms, diabetic eye disease, pregnancy or pregnancy planning, and ability to maintain follow-up are also reviewed.
Useful questions before choosing
- Do I comply with the authorised indication?
- What history or medications change the risk?
- What would we do if I cannot tolerate the dose increase?
- How will we measure benefit beyond weight?
- What plan exists for nutrition, physical activity and maintenance?
The best option is the one that can be used in an indicated, safe and sustainable way, not necessarily the one that tops a table of averages.
Medically reviewed by Dr Paola Blanco
Medical reviewer for Costa Medical Services. Clinical coherence, safety and source quality reviewed.
✓ Spanish medical registration 292891820 · Review August 30, 2026
Official and clinical sources
Regulatory information may change. Before publishing in WordPress, you should double-check the current version of the SmPC and leaflet.
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