Mounjaro vs Foundayo (orforglipron)
Side-by-side comparison based on SURPASS-2 / off-label and ATTAIN-1 phase 3 trial data plus April 2026 pricing.
Mounjaro
Higher efficacytirzepatide (injection)
Peak weight loss20.9%
TrialSURPASS-2 / off-label
Administrationinjection
FDA statustype-2-diabetes
List price$1,069/mo
Foundayo (orforglipron)
orforglipron (tablet)
Peak weight loss14.7%
TrialATTAIN-1
Administrationoral
FDA statuspending
List price$1,099/mo
Weight loss comparison (220 lbs starting weight)
% of body weight lost over 18 months, modeled from phase 3 trial data
Monthly cost by payment channel
| Channel | Mounjaro | Foundayo (orforglipron) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Covered by insurance ($25–150 copay) | $88 | $63 | $25 (Foundayo (orforglipron) cheaper) |
| Manufacturer self-pay (LillyDirect / NovoCare) | — | $499 | — |
| Telehealth — brand name (Hims, Ro, Found) | $499 | — | — |
| Cash retail (full list price) | $1,069 | $1,099 | $30 (Mounjaro cheaper) |
Mounjaro pros and cons
Pros
- ✓ Identical molecule to Zepbound
- ✓ Easier insurance approval if you have type 2 diabetes
- ✓ Strong cardiovascular and renal data (SURPASS-CVOT, SURMOUNT-MMO)
Cons
- ✗ Off-label for weight loss — most insurers deny
- ✗ Cash-pay typically more expensive than Zepbound LillyDirect option
Foundayo (orforglipron) pros and cons
Pros
- ✓ Daily pill with NO fasting requirement (advantage over oral Wegovy)
- ✓ Non-peptide small molecule — easier manufacturing/scale
- ✓ 14.7% average weight loss in ATTAIN-1
- ✓ Likely to be lower-priced than peptide injections at scale
Cons
- ✗ Pending FDA approval (expected mid-2026)
- ✗ Less long-term safety data than older GLP-1s
- ✗ Daily adherence required
Common side effects
Mounjaro
- • Nausea
- • Diarrhea
- • Constipation
- • Vomiting
Foundayo (orforglipron)
- • Nausea
- • Diarrhea
- • Vomiting
- • Constipation
Which should you choose: Mounjaro or Foundayo (orforglipron)?
Choose Mounjaro if: you want maximum weight loss (20.9% vs 14.7%); you prefer a weekly injection over a daily pill; cash-pay cost matters most to you.
Choose Foundayo (orforglipron) if: you prefer a daily pill over a weekly injection.
Final decisions should always be made with a licensed prescriber. This is educational content only.
Medical disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates only based on phase 3 clinical trial data and publicly listed prices. It is not medical advice. Real-world weight loss varies significantly. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any medication.