What you’ll learn:
- Ozempic® and Mounjaro® are FDA-approved treatments for diabetes but are also effective for off-label weight loss.
- Both medications mimic hormones to lower appetite, slow digestion, and regulate blood sugar, but Mounjaro® may be more effective due to its dual action.
- Both medications can be costly—often exceeding $1,000 per month without insurance—and are typically only covered for diabetes, not for weight loss.
For some, losing weight can be challenging. That’s where GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic® and Mounjaro® come in. These medications are both FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes, but they’ve gained attention for their off-label use to help people lose weight.
How do they do that? Both have active ingredients that mimic hormones that control hunger and slow digestion. Ozempic® contains semaglutide, while Mounjaro® is made from tirzepatide. These related but different medications both reduce appetite, slow digestion, and help regulate blood sugar, which can lead to significant weight loss.
The downside? Both medications come with a high price tag, often costing over $1,000 a month without insurance, and coverage for weight loss is rare. They can also cause side effects, though these are mostly mild and don’t cause people to stop taking the medication.
How do Ozempic® and Mounjaro® compare? And is either medication the right fit for you? Let’s break it all down—effectiveness, cost, side effects, and more—so you can make an informed decision.
Ozempic® vs. Mounjaro®: How they work
Ozempic® and Mounjaro® both mimic natural hormones that regulate appetite and digestion but have different active ingredients. Let’s go through how those work:
Semaglutide
Ozempic® is made from semaglutide, which mimics glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that is released when you eat. GLP-1 tells your body that you’ve had enough food. It slows digestion, regulates blood sugar, and reduces hunger. Semaglutide binds to the receptor in your digestive system, brain, and pancreas, helping you eat less and lose weight over time.
Tirzepatide
Mounjaro® is made from tirzepatide, which mimics two hormones: GLP-1 and GIP. Like GLP-1, GIP is also released after eating. It helps the body regulate blood sugar and store or burn fat based on energy needs. It is thought that GIP enhances the effects of GLP-1, adding extra appetite control.
Ozempic® vs. Mounjaro®: What are the similarities?
People often get confused between Ozempic® and Mounjaro® because they share several similarities. Let’s take a look at them:
- How they’re taken: Both Ozempic® and Mounjaro® are taken as self-administered weekly injections from prefilled injection pens. With both, you’ll start at the lowest dose, and your provider will increase it gradually to help you lose steady weight as tolerated.
- Who can take them: Both are FDA-approved to treat type-2 diabetes. They can also be prescribed off-label for weight loss for people with a BMI of 30 or higher or 27 and higher with at least one weight-related medical condition, like high blood pressure.
- Both mimic hormones: As we said, Ozempic® and Mounjaro® work with your body’s natural processes to help manage weight.
- Highly effective: Both medications can help you lose weight when combined with lifestyle changes.
- Similar side effects: They have similar side effects, like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and fatigue. They also carry similar risks for more serious issues, which we’ll discuss further below.
- Unlikely to be covered by insurance: Both medications are approved to treat type 2 diabetes and can only be prescribed off-label for weight loss. Insurance may cover them for diabetes treatment, but weight loss coverage is rare.
- Both have counterparts that are FDA-approved for weight loss: Ozempic’s sister medication is Wegovy®, which is approved for weight loss and to prevent cardiac events. Mounjaro’s related medication is Zepbound®, which is also approved for weight loss and to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Ozempic® vs. Mounjaro®: What are the differences?
As you can see, Ozempic® and Mounjaro® have a lot in common, but it’s their difference that might make one better for you than the other. Here’s a look:
- Mounjaro® might be more effective: In clinical trials, people taking tirzepatide lose an average of 21% of body weight in 68 weeks. People taking semaglutide lost an average of 15% of body weight in the same time frame. (Note: The maximum weight loss with both was achieved through the highest doses of the medication.)
- Ozempic® might cost less: The list price for Ozempic® is about $998 per month, while Mounjaro®’s list price is $1,080 per month, without insurance or discounts. Manufacturer savings programs and insurance coverage can significantly lower out-of-pocket expenses, with some people paying as little as $25 per month for those who qualify.
- They have different manufacturers: Ozempic® is produced by Novo Nordisk, while Mounjaro® is made by Eli Lilly. Each company has its own discount and out-of-pocket saving opportunities to think about. And they change all the time!
Can you switch between Ozempic® and Mounjaro®?
If you’re thinking about switching between Mounjaro® and Ozempic®, it’s important to do so under the guidance of your healthcare provider. They’ll evaluate your weight management progress, how well you’ve tolerated your current medication, and your overall health goals before making any adjustments.
Some people may notice changes in appetite suppression, digestion, or weight loss results after switching. Your doctor may recommend a gradual transition to help reduce potential side effects like nausea or stomach discomfort, which are common when switching between GLP-1 medications. Factors like insurance coverage, cost, and availability will also come into play.
Ozempic® vs. Mounjaro®: Which is better for weight loss?
When it comes to weight loss, both Ozempic® and Mounjaro® are effective, with Mounjaro® being slightly more effective in clinical trials. That doesn’t mean you will definitely lose more with Mounjaro®. Whether one will be better for weight loss for you depends on a few factors. You’ll have to take into consideration what you can afford and which one will give you the least side effects. Plus, you’ll likely have to make lifestyle changes to see the maximum results.
How much weight can you lose on Ozempic® and Mounjaro®?
When it comes to weight loss, the active ingredients in Mounjaro® and Ozempic® deliver impressive results. We went through the averages above, but here they are again:
- Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®): Over 72 weeks, people taking tirzepatide lost an average of 15% to 21% of their body weight.
- Semaglutide (Ozempic®): Semaglutide medications have helped people lose an average of 15% of their body weight over a similar time period.
This particular trial involved 751 people split into two groups: one taking tirzepatide and the other taking semaglutide for 72 weeks. The results from the trial suggest that a person could lose 47% more weight with tirzepatide versus semaglutide. Keep in mind that this trial was conducted by the manufacturer of Mounjaro®, Eli Lilly.
How long does it take to see results?
Most people start noticing some weight loss within the first 4 to 12 weeks of using Ozempic® or Mounjaro®. The clinical studies mentioned earlier have shown consistent weight loss at 3, 6, and 12 months. Here’s a look at the percentages in terms of average body weight lost.
- After 3 months:
- Tirzepatide: 6%
- Semaglutide: 4%
- After 6 months:
- Tirzepatide: 10%
- Semaglutide: 6%
- After 1 year:
- Tirzepatide: 15%
- Semaglutide: 8%
Who can get a prescription for Ozempic® or Mounjaro®?
Both of these medications can be prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes. For weight loss, they typically can be prescribed off-label to people who meet the following criteria:
- BMI of 30 or higher
or
- BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition, like high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
Who can’t take Ozempic® or Mounjaro®?
These medications aren’t right for everyone and can be harmful to some groups of people. You should not use either medication if you have:
- A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) – MTC is a rare type of thyroid cancer.
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) – MEN 2 is a genetic condition that increases the risk of thyroid tumors.
You should talk to your doctor about whether they are right for you if you have:
- A history of pancreatitis – these medications may increase the risk of pancreas inflammation.
- Severe gastrointestinal issues – if you have gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying) or other severe digestive conditions, you shouldn’t take these medications.
- Diabetic retinopathy – these types of medications have been linked to worsening diabetic eye disease in some cases.
You also cannot take Ozempic® or Mounjaro® if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
If you take Mounjaro® or Ozempic® to lose weight, will you need to keep taking them forever?
It depends. While both Mounjaro® and Ozempic® are approved for long-term use, how long you stay on them depends on your individual health goals, progress, and medical guidance. These medications don’t permanently change how your body manages weight. Some people may need a long-term maintenance dose to sustain their results, while others successfully transition off the medication once they reach their goal weight.
The key to maintaining weight loss after stopping Mounjaro® or Ozempic® is building sustainable habits while taking them. Noom can help reinforce healthy behaviors around food, movement, and mindset, making it easier to keep weight off whether you stay on the medication or eventually stop.
What happens when you stop taking Mounjaro® or Ozempic®?
Weight regain is possible after stopping either medication, as appetite and hunger signals return to pre-medication levels. Here’s what to consider:
- Tapering may help: Ozempic® and Mounjaro® often require gradual dose reduction to minimize side effects when stopping.
- Studies suggest some weight regain: Research on semaglutide shows that people who tapered off maintained weight for about six months, but many regained some weight over time.
- Healthy habits make a difference: People who focus on long-term dietary and exercise changes while on the medication tend to have better success maintaining their weight.
- Restarting is possible: You can resume either medication if needed, but always under medical supervision.
Ultimately, the most successful long-term weight loss comes from combining medication with sustainable lifestyle changes rather than relying on the drug alone.
Ozempic® vs. Mounjaro®: What do they cost?
The list prices of Ozempic® and Mounjaro® are a starting point for what you will pay. Insurance coverage, pharmacy pricing, and manufacturer discount programs can change your true cost. Here’s a recap:
- Ozempic®: As we’ve said, the list price is $998 per month. Insurance coverage is more likely when prescribed for type 2 diabetes but is usually denied for off-label weight loss use. Get more specific details about the price of Ozempic®.
- Mounjaro®: The list price of Mounjaro® is slightly higher than Ozempic® at $1,080 per month. Like Ozempic®, insurance coverage typically only applies to people who need it to manage diabetes. Get more specific details about the price of Mounjaro®.
Check with your insurance provider or pharmacy for the most accurate pricing. Below, we’ll show you the best way to check multiple pharmacies.
Does Medicare cover Ozempic® or Mounjaro®?
Medicare Part D may cover Ozempic® or Mounjaro® when prescribed for type 2 diabetes, but not for weight loss. Starting in 2025, the Inflation Reduction Act will cap annual out-of-pocket drug costs at $2,000 for people enrolled in Medicare Part D, which could lower expenses.
Ozempic® vs. Mounjaro®: Side effects
Since Ozempic® and Mounjaro® are both GLP-1 medications, they share many similar side effects, though their frequency and severity can differ.
Common side effects
Most people experience mild to moderate side effects, especially when they first start taking one of these medications or increasing their dose. Here’s what to expect:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Stomach pain or bloating
- Fatigue
Most side effects get better over time as your body adjusts, and most people aren’t affected enough to stop taking the medication. If you’re having trouble managing your side effects, talk to your doctor to see what your options are, which could include lowering your dose or switching medications. Learn more about how to manage GLP-1 side effects.
Rare but serious side effects
Ozempic® and Mounjaro® are considered safe but can have some rare but serious side effects. If you experience, or think you are experiencing, any of the symptoms below, you should seek immediate medical attention. These include:
- Pancreatitis: Symptoms include severe abdominal pain that radiates to your back, with or without vomiting.
- Vision changes: If you notice any sudden changes in your vision while taking Ozempic® or Mounjaro®, get immediate medical attention.
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): Symptoms include dizziness, shakiness, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, and feeling jittery. Low blood sugar is most likely in people who are also taking medications for diabetes.
- Kidney problems: Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting can cause dehydration and worsen kidney issues. Go to the ER if you experience decreased urination, swelling in the ankles or legs, fatigue, or shortness of breath.
- Gallbladder problems: Symptoms include upper abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, or clay-colored stools.
- Allergic reaction: Symptoms include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or a rapid heartbeat. If you think you’re having an allergic reaction to Ozempic® or Mounjaro®, get immediate medical attention.
- Thyroid tumors or cancer: Be alert for a lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath. (This connection has only been established in animal studies.)
Other side effects people have reported while taking Ozempic® or Mounjaro®
Some side effects have been widely reported by those taking the medications but are not officially listed by manufacturers:
- Muscle loss – Losing weight too quickly can result in loss of muscle mass, especially without strength training. This can also cause what’s known as “Ozempic® face,” a gaunt or aged appearance due to rapid weight loss. The best thing you can do to prevent muscle loss is to eat enough protein and incorporate strength-based exercises into your workout routine. Noom’s GLP-1 Companion has a library of exercises designed to help you preserve your muscles. Its Protein Power feature can also help you track your protein intake to make sure you’re consuming enough to build and maintain muscle mass while losing weight.
- Hair thinning or shedding – Some people report increased hair loss or thinning, likely due to nutritional changes from rapid weight loss. To prevent this, make sure you’re eating a nutrient-rich diet. If it’s still an issue, talk to your doctor.
- Feeling cold – A drop in body temperature regulation is common with significant weight loss. Besides quick fixes like adding a layer or turning up your heat, make sure you’re eating enough nutrient-rich foods.
Ozempic® vs. Mounjaro®: Which one is safer?
Both Ozempic® and Mounjaro® are considered safe when prescribed and monitored by a healthcare provider, but side effects can vary. Both medications carry similar risks for pancreatitis, thyroid concerns, digestive issues, and vision changes.
To reduce side effects with either medication:
- Follow the prescribed dosing schedule carefully.
- Stay well-hydrated. GLP-1 medications can reduce thirst alongside hunger.
- Maintain adequate protein intake and exercise regularly to preserve muscle mass.
- Report any concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.
Remember that monitoring side effects, staying active, and following a balanced diet can help improve your experience with either medication. Learn more about safety for Ozempic® and Mounjaro®.
Ozempic® vs. Mounjaro®: Dosage and administration
Both Ozempic® and Mounjaro® are once-weekly injectable medications that come in prefilled pens for easy self-administration.
- Ozempic®: Starts at 0.25 mg once weekly and is increased as needed and tolerated up to 2 mg per week. (If you need a larger dose to continue weight loss, you’ll have to switch to Wegovy®, which can be prescribed up to 2.4 mg.)
- Mounjaro®: Begins at 2.5 mg once weekly and is increased as needed and tolerated up to a maximum of 15 mg weekly. (Its counterpart, Zepbound®, has the same active ingredient, dosing structure, and strengths in prefilled pen form.)
- Zepbound® also comes in a vial and syringe format through LillyDirect®. This program is for people paying out of pocket who want to reduce costs. You’ll have to measure the medicine yourself, but you’ll pay significantly less than for the pen. The starting 2.5 mg dose costs $349, and all doses up to 10 mg cost $499 per month.
Does Ozempic® or Mounjaro® need to be refrigerated?
It’s best to keep Mounjaro® and Ozempic® refrigerated and away from light when you’re storing them. The ideal temperature is between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C), but they should never be frozen.
The official Mounjaro® site says that if you’re traveling, the pens can be unrefrigerated for up to 21 days as long as the temperature does not go above 86°F (30°C) and the pen is kept away from light.
After your first dose of Ozempic®, it’s okay to store your pen for up to 56 days at room temperature, which is 59ºF to 86ºF (15ºC to 30ºC), or in the refrigerator.
Mounjaro® or Ozempic®: Which is right for me?
As you can see, deciding between Ozempic® and Mounjaro® depends on more than how much weight you can lose. Insurance coverage, cost, and personal health goals all matter too. Here’s a look at everything we’ve discussed side by side:
| Medication | Ozempic® (Semaglutide) | Mounjaro® (Tirzepatide) |
| Pricing per month (without insurance) | $998 For all doses: 0.25 mg, 0.5 mb. 1 mg, 2 mg | $1,080 For all doses: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg |
| Manufacturer | Novo Nordisk | Eli Lilly |
| Insurance coverage | More likely to be covered for diabetes, rarely for weight loss. | Same. |
| Sister medication | Wegovy®: $1,350 (list price) If you get Wegovy® through NovoCare Pharmacy, you will pay $499 per month.Wegovy® is available in 0.25 mg, 0.5 mb. 1.7 mg, 2.4 mg doses. | Zepbound®: $1,060 (list price) If you get your medication in vial and syringe format through LilyDirect, you’ll pay $349 (2.5 mg) and $499 (5, 7, 10 mg). |
| Availability | Semaglutide has been removed from the FDA’s shortage list. Some disruptions could still happen, so check your pharmacy. | Tirzepatide has also been removed from the official shortage list, but Mounjaro® can be very popular, so check with your pharmacy for availability. |
| Effectiveness | An average weight loss of 21% of body weight is seen over 18 months. | An average weight loss of 15% of body weight is seen over 68 weeks. |
Alternatives to Ozempic® and Mounjaro®
If Ozempic® or Mounjaro® isn’t the right fit due to cost, availability, or personal preference, there are several other medications that may support weight loss. These include oral alternatives and other GLP-1 receptor agonists.
Semaglutide-based alternatives
In addition to Ozempic®, Novo Nordisk also manufactures two other semaglutide-based medications. Here’s a brief recap of what those and some key characteristics:
- Wegovy® is FDA-approved for weight management under the same BMI criteria as Ozempic®. It’s also FDA-approved to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events. The list price of Wegovy® is $1,350 before any insurance coverage. If you don’t have insurance coverage and pay out of pocket, you can take advantage of Novo Nordisk’s new NovoCare® Pharmacy, which lowers a month of Wegovy® to $499. Here’s more info on the price of Wegovy®.
- Rybelsus® is an oral form of semaglutide that is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes. If BMI requirements are met, it can be prescribed off-label for weight loss, though it will likely be less effective than injectable options. The list price for Rybelsus® is $998 per month, the same as Ozempic®. Here’s more info on the price of Rybelsus®.
Compounded semaglutide
Our compounded semaglutide* offered via Noom GLP-1Rx contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic® and Wegovy®. If you qualify for Noom Med, your clinician can determine if it is the right medication for you and then prescribe it if needed. It starts at $149 for the first month and then costs $279 per month, billed in three-month increments. This price includes medication delivered to your door, unlimited access to a clinician, a weight loss plan designed specifically for you, and all of Noom’s trackers, tools, and community support. Read more: How to get a prescription for compounded semaglutide.
Tirzepatide-based alternatives
Zepbound® is the counterpart to Mounjaro® and shares many similarities. Both are manufactured by Eli Lilly, have tirzepatide as the active ingredient, and share the same dosing schedule. The main difference is their FDA-approved use. Zepbound® is FDA-approved for weight loss for people with the same BMI guidelines as Ozempic®. Zepbound® also comes in the vial and syringe format outlined above for people paying out of pocket. Here’s more info on the price of Zepbound®.
Liraglutide-based alternatives
Liraglutide is another medication that mimics GLP-1, but it requires daily injections rather than weekly. Here are the medications that contain it:
- Saxenda® is FDA-approved for weight loss and to prevent cardiac events. Some insurance plans may cover it, but the list price for Saxenda® is $1,349 per month without insurance. Here’s more info on the price of Saxenda.
- Victoza® is FDA-approved to help control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes and to prevent cardiac events. It can also support moderate weight loss off-label. The list price for Victoza® is $815 for a 3-pen package.
- Generic liraglutide has recently been FDA-approved for managing type 2 diabetes. The current cost for generic liraglutide is $469 for two pens and $704 for three pens.
Dulaglutide-based alternative
Dulaglutide, sold under the brand name Trulicity®, is another once-weekly injectable GLP-1 medication. While it functions similarly to Ozempic®, it interacts with GLP-1 receptors in a slightly different way. Trulicity® is FDA-approved for managing type 2 diabetes but is sometimes prescribed off-label for weight loss. Without insurance, its list price is about $987 per month.
Other weight-loss medications to consider
While GLP-1 medications are a very popular choice, other weight loss medications can also be effective or more affordable for some people. Here are some of the alternatives. (Always double-check the prices at your pharmacy for the most accurate numbers.)
- Metformin – Metformin is FDA-approved for diabetes, but it can be prescribed off-label for weight loss. It can help people lose modest amounts of weight. If you qualify for Noom Med, your clinician can decide if a prescription for metformin is right for you. It will cost $59 for the first month and $89 for recurring 3-month supplies if prescribed. You’ll also get access to medical counseling, a coach, and Noom’s trackers and tools.
- Orlistat – This medication helps block fat absorption and is taken three times daily with meals. The cost can vary widely, ranging from $50 to $800 per month without insurance.
- Phentermine – Phentermine is an appetite suppressant designed for short-term use. It’s taken once daily to help reduce hunger. Prices typically range from $27 to $100 per month without insurance.
- Diethylpropion – Diethylpropion is taken one to three times daily and is used for short-term appetite suppression. Its price ranges from $40 to $85 per month without insurance.
- Naltrexone and bupropion (Contrave) – This combination drug is FDA-approved for weight management and helps reduce appetite and cravings. For people using the CurAccess™ Patient Support Program, Contrave is $99 per month with free shipping. If your insurance covers Contrave, it may cost less. Without these benefits, prices can range from $600 to $800 per month.
Choosing between Ozempic® or Mounjaro®
Choosing between Ozempic® and Mounjaro® is a big decision. Factors like weight loss goals, insurance coverage, cost, availability, and side effect tolerance will play a role in deciding which medication is the best fit for you.
No matter which option you choose, weight loss medication works best when combined with sustainable lifestyle changes. If you qualify for Noom Med, our clinicians can help you decide which medication is right for you based on your health goals and prescribe it if needed. Then, they’ll help you design a program to get the most out of your treatment.
Disclaimer: Ozempic® and Mounjaro® are not FDA-approved for weight loss but are often prescribed off-label for this purpose.
Compounded semaglutide available through Noom GLP-1Rx is produced in an FDA-registered facility but has not been reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy, or quality.
