What is the difference between Wegovy and Mounjaro? This in-depth comparison examines the unique side effect profiles of these two popular weight loss medications.
Have you heard about Wegovy and Mounjaro, two of the hottest new prescription medications for weight loss?
With the difference between Wegovy and Mounjaro being a common point of confusion, this guide will compare their distinct side effect profiles to help you determine which may be a better fit.
Both belong to a class of injections called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which work by mimicking the appetite-reducing hormone GLP-1.
However, Wegovy was specially designed for weight management, while Mounjaro treats type 2 diabetes.
Beyond their FDA-approved uses though, many doctors now prescribe Mounjaro off-label for weight loss too.
Wegovy Overview
First approved in 2021, Wegovy delivers the drug semaglutide in escalating weekly doses up to 2.4 mg.
Known side effects increase as the dosage ramps up and typically peak after 2-3 months before resolving.
Most common Wegovy issues include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
These gastrointestinal troubles are very common, affecting over half using the highest dose.
However, by beginning slowly and giving your body time to acclimate, they normally fade after a few weeks.
While inconvenient, researchers found over 83% of patients tolerate Wegovy well enough to continue treatment in studies.
So for most people, early queasiness gives way to profound appetite reduction and weight loss averaging 15% in clinical trials.
Mounjaro Overview
Hitting the market in 2022, Mounjaro features the medication tirzepatide. Recently doctors began prescribing very high 5 or 10 mg off-label doses for weight loss, far exceeding the 2.5 mg maximum for diabetes.
However, ramping the dosage so drastically multiplies side effects, with up to:
- 90% experiencing nausea
- 20% getting vomiting
- 15% having diarrhea
- 5% encountering constipation
So while effective for weight loss, far more using off-label Mounjaro struggle with sometimes extreme gastrointestinal issues.
And beginning at the full 5 or 10 mg rather than escalating gradually makes problems worse.
Yet some persist through the misery hoping rapid results justify short-term woes.
Direct Comparison of Side Effects
Now let’s directly compare reports from major clinical trials at the standard doses used for weight loss – Mounjaro 10 mg vs Wegovy 2.4 mg:
| Side Effect | Wegovy 2.4 mg | Mounjaro 10 mg |
| Nausea | 69% | 89% |
| Vomiting | 16% | 20% |
| Diarrhea | 12% | 15% |
| Decreased appetite | 52% | 67% |
| Abdominal pain | 14% | 7% |
| Constipation | 11% | 5% |
| Fatigue | 12% | 9% |
| Dizziness | 11% | 6% |
| Headaches | 10% | 12% |
The numbers speak for themselves – those using off-label Mounjaro for weight loss endure dramatically higher rates of nausea and vomiting. Over 9 out of 10 experience nausea and 1 out of 5 throw up while using the 10 mg dose.
While Wegovy users still battle considerable early side effects, especially with nausea, the rates pale in comparison to sky-high Mounjaro figures.
And it’s important to note Mounjaro trials did not escalate dosing, which is known to worsen problems initially. So beginning at 10 mg leads to more extreme and sudden nausea, diarrhea, and related issues in those seeking weight loss.
Risk Factors to Consider
Beyond the statistics, individual risk factors also help predict who will sail through vs. struggle with side effects:
At Higher Risk for Problems:
- History of gastrointestinal issues
- Very high BMI (35+)
- Rapid dose increases
- Pre-existing diabetes
- Taking other medications
Less Likely to Have Troubles:
- No prior gut problems
- BMI under 35
- Slow dose escalation
- Young and healthy
- No other prescriptions
So even among Wegovy and Mounjaro takers, personal characteristics guide outcomes.
Those already battling digestive woes or multiple health conditions more often battle severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other ills.
Duration and Management of Side Effects
Thankfully, most problems triggered by Wegovy and Mounjaro prove temporary, fading within days or weeks as the body adjusts:
- Gradual escalation gives your system time to acclimate
- Symptoms typically peak at months 2-3
- Issues resolve after weight stabilizes around month 9
And there are many effective ways to alleviate symptoms when they strike:
- Anti-nausea medications – Ask about Zofran, Phenergan, or similar drugs
- Ginger supplements – A natural anti-emetic and gut soother
- Smaller doses – Cut injectable medications in half
- Soft diet – Avoid heavy, rich, or hard to digest foods
- Hydration – Sip water slowly throughout the day
So most can take steps to successfully ride out the early rockiness. After a few weeks, side effects make way for impressive weight loss once your body adapts.
