At RX Direct, we understand how important it is to make the right choice when starting a weight loss treatment. Two of the most popular options in the UK right now are Wegovy and Mounjaro. Both are prescription-only injectable medications designed to support weight loss, but they work in slightly different ways and have their own unique benefits. With prices set to rise in the near future, now is a good time to understand how these treatments compare, so you can make the best decision for your health and budget.
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy contains semaglutide, a medication that mimics a hormone called GLP-1. This hormone helps regulate your appetite and food intake by sending signals to your brain that you feel full. As a result, you naturally eat less, which can lead to significant weight loss over time.
Wegovy is taken once a week as a subcutaneous injection, usually in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm. The dose is gradually increased over the first few months to help your body adjust and to minimise side effects like nausea or digestive changes. When combined with a balanced diet and regular physical activity, Wegovy has been shown to help patients lose a substantial amount of weight and maintain these results in the long term.
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is a newer treatment in the UK that contains tirzepatide. It works on two key hormone pathways, GLP-1 and GIP, which together have a powerful effect on controlling appetite, slowing digestion, and helping the body manage blood sugar levels. This dual-action approach has led to impressive results in clinical trials, with many patients experiencing significant weight loss.
Like Wegovy, Mounjaro is injected once a week, and the dose is gradually increased to reduce side effects. The combination of targeting two hormones rather than one means Mounjaro can be more effective for some people. However, this enhanced effectiveness also comes with a higher price tag, which is due to increase even further in the coming months.
Wegovy vs Mounjaro: The Key Differences
When looking at Wegovy vs Mounjaro, one of the main differences is how they work in the body. Wegovy targets GLP-1 alone, while Mounjaro targets both GLP-1 and GIP. This gives Mounjaro a potentially stronger effect for some patients, but it is not necessarily the best option for everyone.
Another important difference is cost. Mounjaro is already more expensive than Wegovy, and with prices expected to rise soon, the gap will become even greater. Wegovy remains a highly effective option for most patients, and with the upcoming increase in Mounjaro costs, many may find that Wegovy offers better value for money without compromising on results.
Both medications require ongoing use for sustained results, and both work best when combined with healthy lifestyle changes. The choice between the two should take into account your personal medical history, weight loss goals, and budget.
Why Lifestyle Changes Matter
While both Wegovy and Mounjaro are powerful tools for weight loss, neither is a magic solution on its own. They work by helping to control your appetite and make it easier to stick to healthier eating patterns, but to maintain your results long term, lifestyle changes are essential.
At RX Direct, we always recommend pairing your treatment with a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that supports your energy needs and overall health. Focus on lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Avoid relying on highly processed foods, which can trigger hunger and lead to weight regain.
Regular physical activity is also key. This does not mean you have to commit to intense workouts every day, but finding a form of movement you enjoy can make a big difference. Walking, swimming, cycling, or even dancing are great ways to stay active and support your weight loss goals.
Developing healthier habits around sleep, stress management, and hydration will also improve your results. Poor sleep and high stress can affect hormones related to appetite and metabolism, making it harder to keep weight off.
Maintaining Weight Loss Long Term
One of the challenges many people face is keeping the weight off after reaching their goal. Stopping treatment abruptly can lead to appetite returning to previous levels, which can result in gradual weight regain. This is why long-term planning is so important.
If you start with Wegovy, you can work with your prescribing clinician to create a maintenance plan that includes a slower reduction in dose rather than stopping suddenly. This, combined with the healthy habits you have built along the way, can make it easier to maintain your results.
While Mounjaro may offer slightly greater weight loss in some cases, the cost increase and the need for ongoing lifestyle changes mean it is not necessarily a better choice for everyone. Wegovy offers proven results, is generally well tolerated, and will remain the more affordable option once the upcoming price rise takes effect.
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Choosing the Right Treatment for You
The decision between Wegovy vs Mounjaro should be based on more than just the amount of weight you want to lose. It is also about what works for your lifestyle, your health, and your budget. With both treatments, you will get the best results by committing to healthy eating, regular activity, and ongoing support from your healthcare provider.
At RX Direct, we can guide you through your options, explain the differences clearly, and help you start a treatment plan that works for you. With Mounjaro’s prices set to rise, now is an ideal time to consider starting Wegovy and begin your journey towards lasting weight loss success. Start your consultation here.
This blog was written on behalf of RX Direct by Pharmacy Mentor.
