When it comes to weight loss medications, Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has been gaining attention for its efficacy compared to other popular drugs like Wegovy, Ozempic, Saxenda, and Metformin. This comparison covers various aspects such as efficacy, side effects, cost, and availability in the UK market.
Efficacy Data
Mounjaro vs. Wegovy
Studies indicate that Mounjaro is more effective for weight loss than Wegovy. Patients using Mounjaro, combined with positive lifestyle changes, can achieve weight loss of up to 21% of their body weight after 18 months, whereas Wegovy users typically see a weight loss of 15% after 17 months.
Another study highlighted that 96.3% of participants lost at least 5% of their starting weight with the highest dose of Mounjaro (15mg) after 72 weeks, compared to 89.4% with Wegovy (2.4mg) over 68 weeks.
Mounjaro vs. Ozempic
Comparative studies show that Mounjaro also outperforms Ozempic in terms of weight loss. For example, 81.8% of adults on Mounjaro experienced at least a 5% weight loss within one year, compared to 66.5% on Ozempic.
Additionally, Mounjaro has shown superior efficacy in reducing hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) levels, a critical measure for diabetes management, compared to Ozempic.
Side Effects
Mounjaro Side Effects
Common side effects of Mounjaro include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation. Some patients may also experience more serious stomach problems. The incidence of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is particularly notable among diabetic patients using Mounjaro.
Comparisons with Other Medications
Wegovy: Generally well-tolerated but may cause gastrointestinal issues similar to Mounjaro. However, Wegovy might lead to fewer side effects and is better tolerated by some individuals.
Ozempic: Shares similar side effects with Mounjaro, including gastrointestinal disturbances. Ozempic targets only one receptor linked to weight loss, while Mounjaro targets two receptors.
Saxenda: Currently out of stock in the UK with no confirmed date for availability, thus direct comparison of side effects with current usage data is limited.
Metformin: A relatively older treatment primarily for diabetes with less pronounced weight loss effects and typical side effects including gastrointestinal symptoms.
Cost Comparison
Mounjaro vs. Wegovy
The cost of these medications can vary greatly. In the UK, Wegovy prices start at £170 for the starting dose and can go up to £324 for the maintenance dose.
Monjaro starts at £225 for the starting dose and can go up to £255.
Mounjaro vs. Ozempic
Like Mounjaro, Ozempic starts at £225 and is available through private prescription. Ozempic can go up to £325 for the maintenance dose.
Dosage | Mounjaro Price (£) | Wegovy Price (£) | Ozempic Price (£) |
0.25mg | - | 170 | 225 |
0.5mg | - | 195 | 250 |
1mg | - | 225 | 325 |
1.7mg | - | 284 | - |
2.4mg | - | 324 | - |
2.5mg | 225 | - | - |
5mg | 225 | - | - |
7.5mg | 235 | - | - |
10mg | 235 | - | - |
12.5mg | 255 | - | - |
15mg | 255 | - | - |
Recent Clinical Trials and Studies
SURMOUNT-1 and SURMOUNT-2
Two significant clinical trials, SURMOUNT-1 and SURMOUNT-2, have provided substantial data supporting the efficacy of Mounjaro. In SURMOUNT-1, 2,539 obese or overweight adults, without diabetes but with other weight-related complications, participated. The study reported significant weight loss percentages: 16.0% for the 5mg dose, 21.4% for the 10mg dose, and 22.5% for the 15mg dose over 72 weeks.
SURMOUNT-2 focused on overweight or obese adults with Type-2 diabetes. Here, the 10mg and 15mg doses led to mean weight reductions of 13.4% and 15.7%, respectively, compared to just 3.3% in the placebo group over the same period.
Market Availability and NHS/private Prescription Options
Mounjaro on the NHS
Mounjaro is expected to be available on the NHS for weight management, following its recent approval by the MHRA. The UK government is even considering the potential of weight loss drugs like Mounjaro to help tackle unemployment by improving overall health outcomes.
Private Prescriptions
Patients can already access Mounjaro through private prescriptions in the UK. Approved by the MHRA in November 2023, it is available at pharmacies with a necessary prescription. Additionally, the cost of Mounjaro in the UK without insurance ranges from £225 upwards, depending on the dosage and treatment plan.
Conclusion
In summary, Mounjaro stands out in the weight loss medication market due to its higher efficacy compared to other drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic. Although it comes with common side effects, its potential benefits in weight loss and diabetes management make it a competitive option. With its recent approval for weight management by the MHRA, both NHS and private prescription availability are expanding, providing more avenues for patients in the UK to access this treatment.
Future Directions and Considerations
Given the robust efficacy data and regulatory approval, Mounjaro's role in weight management is set to expand significantly. Positive lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, will remain crucial to maximising the benefits of Mounjaro and similar medications. Healthcare professionals should stay updated on the latest guidelines and clinical trial data to provide the best advice to patients looking to manage their weight and associated health conditions.
Personalised Treatment Plans
It's essential for patients and healthcare providers to work together to design personalised treatment plans that consider the unique responses individuals may have to medications. Factors such as pre-existing health conditions, lifestyle, and personal preferences will all play a role in determining the most suitable treatment. Here at AJ Hill Aesthetics we specialise in ensuring your weight loss plan is tailored to you.
Monitoring and Side Effect Management
Regular monitoring and proactive management of side effects through discussion with healthcare providers can significantly enhance the treatment experience for patients. Methods to mitigate common side effects like nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort should be part of the treatment conversation. Similarly, patients should be informed about the importance of adherence to dosing schedules and lifestyle recommendations to achieve the best outcomes.
Final Thoughts
The advent of Mounjaro and its approval for weight management is a breakthrough that provides a valuable option for patients struggling with obesity and weight-related health issues.
Comparisons with other medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Saxenda reveal that Mounjaro offers higher efficacy rates, though it comes with its own set of challenges in terms of side effects and cost.
As more data emerges and availability increases, especially within the NHS framework, patients in the UK might find Mounjaro an effective part of their weight management strategy.
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