Ozempic™ is a popular diabetes drug that also promotes weight loss. The new drug, Mounjaro®, promises the same – but is it better than Ozempic™? Read on to learn more about both drugs.

Since its approval in 2017 by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) has earned media attention for its success with weight loss. The Type 2 diabetes drug suppresses appetite and helps people feel full. Those in search of an effective weight loss drug swear by Ozempic™.

Meet Mounjaro®. Approved in 2022 for Type 2 diabetes, Mounjaro® has also made headlines for weight loss. But which is better? Is Mounjaro® more effective than Ozempic™ for weight loss? Brianna Johnson-Rabbett, MD, Nebraska Medicine endocrinologist, diabetes and metabolism specialist, explains the differences between the two.

How does Mounjaro® work?

Mounjaro® is part of a new type of drug class. It’s an injectible that combines receptor agonists (a chemical that activates a receptor to produce a biological response). Mounjaro® activates two receptors, while Ozempic™ has one. This is why Mounjaro® is called a dual-agonist.

“The GLP1 receptors in the body, including the brain, help regulate appetite,” says Dr. Johnson-Rabbett. “Activation of these receptors can help suppress appetite, help us feel full faster and thus help lower calorie intake, reducing body weight. There are also additional actions of GLP1 receptor agonists that help with blood sugar control in diabetes.”

What are the side effects of Mounjaro®?

Side effects of Mounjaro® are similar to Ozempic™. The most common are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal pain, which can wane over time.

“There is a box warning for medications in this class, including Mounjaro®, regarding the risk of thyroid C cell tumors. In animal studies, there is an increased incidence of thyroid C cell tumors,” says Dr. Johnson-Rabbett. “Pancreatitis has also been observed.”

Can Mounjaro® be prescribed only for weight loss?

Neither Ozempic™ nor Mounjaro® are labeled for weight loss. Many insurance plans do not cover Mounjaro® or Ozempic™ for people who don’t have diabetes.

“Mounjaro® is only FDA-approved for Type 2 diabetes, but it’s used off-label at times for weight loss,” says Dr. Johnson-Rabbett. “Using Mounjaro® and Ozempic™ without diabetes requires assessment and discussion of risks and benefits with your doctor.”

Wegovy™ (semaglutide), however, is an FDA-approved injectable weight-loss drug for overweight adults. Wegovy ™, Ozempic™, and Mounjaro® typically require continued use to keep weight off.

The FDA approved tirzepatide, under the name Zepbound™, on Nov. 8, for weight management. It’s expected to be available in pharmacies by the end of 2023, and a 1-month supply will retail for $1,059.87. If someone’s insurance doesn’t cover Zepbound™, patients with commercial insurance can use coupons to lower the cost.

Is Mounjaro® better for weight loss than Ozempic™?

“Studies have shown more weight loss with Mounjaro® than Ozempic™,” says Dr. Johnson-Rabbett. “Both are powerful tools to support weight loss. A BMI of 27 or more with weight-related comorbidities or a BMI of 30 or greater is needed for the use of weight loss drugs to be indicated.”

According to clinical trials, people who used 15 milligrams (the largest dose) of Mounjaro® lost up to 21% of their body weight on average.