Is Ozempic or Mounjaro Better For Weight Loss?
Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) are both popular medications originally developed for treating Type 2 diabetes. Lately, they've gained popularity for weight loss. You might be wondering which of these medications is better if losing weight is your primary goal. Let's break down the key differences based on current evidence.
How Do Ozempic and Mounjaro Work?
Both Ozempic and Mounjaro help your body manage blood sugar levels and weight by mimicking hormones naturally produced in your gut:
- Ozempic (semaglutide) acts like a hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). GLP-1 slows digestion, makes you feel fuller longer, and helps your pancreas release insulin after eating.
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide) acts similarly, but it mimics two hormones instead of one—GLP-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). This dual-action appears to boost weight loss effects even further.
Which Medication Causes More Weight Loss?
Research comparing the two medications shows that people taking Mounjaro generally lose more weight than those on Ozempic:
- In a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (2021), people using Mounjaro displayed greater weights loss at all doses (5mg, 10mg and 15mg) compared with Ozempic (semaglutide, 1 mg dose).
| Treatment | Mean Weight Loss (kg) | Difference vs. Semaglutide (kg) | Patients with ≥5% Weight Loss (%) | Patients with ≥10% Weight Loss (%) | Patients with ≥15% Weight Loss (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tirzepatide 5 mg | -7.6 kg | -1.9 kg (95% CI: -2.8 to -1.0) | 65% | 34% | 15% |
| Tirzepatide 10 mg | -9.3 kg | -3.6 kg (95% CI: -4.5 to -2.7) | 76% | 47% | 24% |
| Tirzepatide 15 mg | -11.2 kg | -5.5 kg (95% CI: -6.4 to -4.6) | 80% | 57% | 36% |
| Semaglutide 1 mg | -5.7 kg | Reference | 54% | 24% | 8% |
- Importantly, newer, higher doses of Ozempic (2 mg) approved by the FDA in March 2022 haven't been directly compared to Mounjaro yet, so exact comparisons at this dose aren't available.
Effects on Blood Sugar Control
Both medications effectively lower blood sugar levels, but Mounjaro generally shows a slightly stronger effect in clinical studies. According to research published in The New England Journal of Medicine in 2021, Mounjaro lowered average blood sugar levels (HbA1C) more significantly than Ozempic in adults with type 2 diabetes.
Cardiovascular Benefits
One notable advantage of Ozempic is that it has been proven to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke in adults with diabetes and existing heart conditions. Currently, Mounjaro's cardiovascular benefits haven't been confirmed through long-term studies, although research is ongoing.
What About Side Effects?
Both Ozempic and Mounjaro commonly cause gastrointestinal side effects, including:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach upset
The frequency and severity of side effects are comparable between the two medications. Because Mounjaro mimics two hormones, some users report slightly stronger initial side effects, but this varies widely among individuals.
Can You Switch from Ozempic to Mounjaro?
Switching between these medications is possible but requires guidance from your healthcare provider. They're not interchangeable directly. If your current medication isn't achieving your desired outcomes, your provider might consider switching your prescription and adjusting your dose accordingly to optimize results.
How Do You Choose?
When consulting with your provider about Ozempic and Mounjaro, consider these factors:
- Effectiveness: Mounjaro may offer greater weight loss based on current studies.
- Heart health: Ozempic has demonstrated cardiovascular benefits in people at risk.
- Ease of use: Mounjaro pens might be simpler for those with arthritis or vision challenges because they require fewer steps for each dose.
- Insurance and cost: Availability and insurance coverage significantly influence which medication may be a realistic option.
The Bottom Line
Both Ozempic and Mounjaro are effective medications for managing type 2 diabetes and aiding weight loss. Current evidence suggests Mounjaro could help you lose more weight, but Ozempic has additional proven cardiovascular benefits.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific health needs, insurance coverage, and how you respond to treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider to determine the best option for you.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Medical knowledge evolves rapidly, and while this article is accurate as of March 8, 2025, always verify critical information with your healthcare provider.
