Diabetes Drug vs Weight Loss Drug
Reviewed by Dr Lucy NewtonMounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) are both effective for weight loss, but have different FDA indications that affect insurance coverage and prescribing.
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Side-by-side comparison based on 10,000+ Reddit discussions
| Feature | Mounjaro | Wegovy | Source Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide | Different molecules |
| Mechanism | Dual GIP/GLP-1 | GLP-1 only | Mounjaro dual action |
| Typical Weight Loss | 20.2% | 13.7% | SURMOUNT-5 head-to-head trial |
| Primary Indication | Type 2 Diabetes | Weight Loss | FDA-approved uses differ |
| Max Dose | 15mg weekly | 2.4mg weekly | Per prescribing information |
| Brand Cost (Self-Pay) | $399-549/mo (vials) | $349-499/mo (NovoCare) | 2026 self-pay pricing programs |
| Insurance | Better (T2D) | Limited | Diabetes indication easier to cover |
| Cardiovascular Data | 42% lower MACE risk* | 20% MACE reduction | *Nature Medicine 2025 (T2D) |
Different molecules
Mounjaro dual action
SURMOUNT-5 head-to-head trial
FDA-approved uses differ
Per prescribing information
2026 self-pay pricing programs
Diabetes indication easier to cover
*Nature Medicine 2025 (T2D)
Data from the SURMOUNT-5 & Nature Medicine (2025) (NEJM / Nature Medicine)
While Mounjaro is indicated for Type 2 diabetes and Wegovy for weight management, they contain the two most potent weight-loss molecules ever studied. Recent head-to-head and real-world data provide a clear picture of their relative effectiveness.
| Comparison Metric | Mounjaro | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| Max Weight Loss (%) | 20.2% | 13.7% |
| Cardiovascular Risk | 42% Lower MACE risk* | 20% MACE reduction |
| Lost >20% Body Weight | 52.5% | 28.1% |
| HbA1c Reduction | Up to 2.3% | Up to 1.8%* |
| Mechanism | Dual GIP/GLP-1 | Single GLP-1 |
"Mounjaro (tirzepatide) offers superior weight loss and potentially greater cardiovascular protection in diabetic populations (Nature Medicine 2025). However, Wegovy remains the gold standard for weight loss in patients without diabetes due to its specific FDA indication and long-term safety profile in that population."
Results were statistically significant (p < 0.001) across all primary endpoints.
Latest verification performed January 2026.
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