Mounjaro (tirzepatide (injection))
Same active ingredient as Zepbound but indicated for diabetes. Off-label weight loss common. Manufactured by Eli Lilly. FDA-approved status: type-2-diabetes.
Peak weight loss
20.9%
Trial
SURPASS-2 / off-label
Time to peak
72 wks
List price
$1,069/mo
Mounjaro pricing across every channel
Manufacturer direct prices (LillyDirect, NovoCare) are usually cheapest. Updated April 2026.
| Drug | Insurance | Mfr direct | Telehealth (brand) | Telehealth (compd) | Cash retail | Get it |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mounjaro 20.9% weight loss | $88 cheapest | — | $499 | $299 | $1,069 | N/A |
Some links are affiliate. We earn a commission at no cost to you. We never recommend a product based on commission. Disclaimer.
Mounjaro cost in 2026
| Payment channel | Monthly | 12 months |
|---|---|---|
| Covered by insurance ($25–150 copay) | $88 | $1,056 |
| Manufacturer self-pay (LillyDirect / NovoCare) | Not available | — |
| Telehealth — brand name (Hims, Ro, Found) | $499 | $5,988 |
| Telehealth — compounded (limited post-FDA crackdown) | $299 | $3,588 |
| Cash retail (full list price) | $1,069 | $12,828 |
Dosing
Weekly subcutaneous injection, same titration as Zepbound (2.5 → 15 mg).
What to expect on Mounjaro
For someone starting at 220 lbs on Mounjaro for 12 months, the projection is:
Expected loss at 12 mo
38.5 lbs
Final weight
181.5 lbs
Cost / lb lost
$156
Modeled from SURPASS-2 / off-label phase 3 data. Adjust for your own weight on the full calculator.
✓ 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
Most-reported in SURPASS-2 / off-label. Side effects are typically worst during dose escalation and improve over time.
NauseaDiarrheaConstipationVomiting
→ Full Mounjaro side effects guide (timing, severity, when to call)Compare Mounjaro to other GLP-1s
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.