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Ozempic vs. Mounjaro

Published on 
February 3, 2025
Virta Team

Ozempic and Mounjaro differ in scope and efficacy. Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist for type 2 diabetes and reducing cardiovascular risks, while Mounjaro, a dual GIP and GLP-1 agonist, focuses on type 2 diabetes with superior HbA1c reductions. Both are used off-label for weight management, with Mounjaro showing greater weight loss potential. Common side effects, including nausea, have some overlap, though Mounjaro has a higher thyroid tumor risk. Mounjaro averages $1,135/month, higher than Ozempic’s $875/month. Neither faces current shortages.

How Ozempic Works

Slows gastric emptying, reduces appetite, and enhances feelings of fullness, leading to lower calorie intake. It also stimulates insulin release and reduces glucagon secretion, improving blood sugar control.

Common Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.

Serious Potential Side Effects

Pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, kidney problems, and increased heart rate, thyroid cancer, anaphylaxis (or serious allergic reactions)

How Mounjaro Works

Enhances the effects of both incretin hormones. GIP improves insulin sensitivity and enhances fat metabolism, while GLP-1 reduces appetite, delays gastric emptying, and promotes insulin secretion, making it effective for blood sugar control and weight loss.

Common Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and indigestion

Serious Potential Side Effects

Pancreatitis, thyroid tumors (potential risk), gallbladder issues, kidney problems, and serious allergic reactions

Brand Name

Ozempic
Mounjaro

Generic Name

semaglutide
Tirzepatide

Overview

Primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes to improve blood sugar control. Also used for cardiovascular event risk reduction in patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. Off-label use for weight management due to its appetite-suppressing effects.
Dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist for type 2 diabetes management, showing promise in significant weight loss through appetite regulation and enhanced insulin sensitivity.

Year Approved

2017 for weight management 2020 for cardiovascular risk reduction
2022

Category

GLP-1
Dual GIP and GLP-1

Indicated for

Type 2 diabetes management; reducing risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease
Type 2 diabetes management

Administration type

Injectable
Injectable

Also used (but not approved) for

Weight Management
Weight Management

Frequency

Once / week
Once / week

Typical dose range

0.25–2.0 mg
2.5–15 mg

Average cost per month

$875
$1,135

Availability

No current shortages
No current shortages