Wegovy vs Mounjaro
Side-by-side comparison based on STEP-1 and SURPASS-2 / off-label phase 3 trial data plus April 2026 pricing.
Wegovy
semaglutide (injection)
Peak weight loss14.9%
TrialSTEP-1
Administrationinjection
FDA statusweight-loss
List price$1,349/mo
Mounjaro
Higher efficacytirzepatide (injection)
Peak weight loss20.9%
TrialSURPASS-2 / off-label
Administrationinjection
FDA statustype-2-diabetes
List price$1,069/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 | Wegovy | Mounjaro | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Covered by insurance ($25–150 copay) | $63 | $88 | $25 (Wegovy cheaper) |
| Manufacturer self-pay (LillyDirect / NovoCare) | $499 | — | — |
| Telehealth — brand name (Hims, Ro, Found) | $449 | $499 | $50 (Wegovy cheaper) |
| Cash retail (full list price) | $1,349 | $1,069 | $280 (Mounjaro cheaper) |
Wegovy pros and cons
Pros
- ✓ FDA-approved specifically for weight loss
- ✓ Robust 14.9% average weight loss in STEP-1
- ✓ Wide telehealth and pharmacy availability
- ✓ Once-weekly injection (good adherence)
Cons
- ✗ High list price ($1,349/mo without coverage)
- ✗ Insurance often denies for weight loss without comorbidity
- ✗ Mild-to-moderate GI side effects common during titration
- ✗ Lower efficacy than tirzepatide-based alternatives
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
Common side effects
Wegovy
- • Nausea
- • Diarrhea
- • Constipation
- • Vomiting
- • Headache
Mounjaro
- • Nausea
- • Diarrhea
- • Constipation
- • Vomiting
Which should you choose: Wegovy or Mounjaro?
Choose Wegovy if: you want a drug FDA-approved specifically for weight loss.
Choose Mounjaro if: you want maximum weight loss (20.9% vs 14.9%); cash-pay cost matters most to you; you have type 2 diabetes (insurance is more likely to cover).
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.