With around 64% of adults in England estimated to be overweight or living with obesity, weight-related health concerns are clearly rising and have become a major public health challenge. In this context, weight loss injections such as Wegovy and Mounjaro have gained attention in the UK for helping people lose significant weight when lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough.
While both are effective, they work slightly differently and suit different people. Understanding the difference between Mounjaro and Wegovy can help you choose the right option with guidance from our pharmacists.
What Is Wegovy?
Wegovy contains semaglutide, a medicine that mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1. This hormone helps control appetite and blood sugar levels. By slowing digestion and making you feel fuller for longer, Wegovy helps reduce calorie intake and supports gradual weight loss.
How Wegovy Works
Semaglutide acts on the brain’s appetite control centre to reduce hunger and cravings. It also delays how quickly food leaves your stomach, keeping you satisfied for longer between meals.
Wegovy Weight Loss Results
Clinical trials have shown that people using Wegovy weight loss injections, combined with healthy eating and exercise, can lose around 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks. Results vary depending on lifestyle and consistency.
How to Use Wegovy
Wegovy is a once-weekly weight loss injection, usually self-administered in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Doses start low and increase gradually to reduce side effects.
What Is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, which targets two natural hormones — GLP-1 and GIP. This dual action helps regulate blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and suppress appetite even more effectively than GLP-1 medicines alone.
How Mounjaro Works
Tirzepatide works in two ways: by slowing digestion and by helping the body use insulin more efficiently. This dual approach not only helps control cravings but also improves how your body manages fat and energy.
Mounjaro Weight Loss Results
In clinical studies, many people achieved over 20% weight loss over 72 weeks, often exceeding results seen with semaglutide. However, Mounjaro is still newer in the UK, and not everyone may be suitable for it.
Wegovy vs Mounjaro for Weight Loss
While both medicines aid significant weight loss, Mounjaro may produce slightly higher results on average. That said, individual response and tolerance vary, so it’s not about which is “better” overall but which is safer and more suitable for your health profile.
What Are the Side Effects of Wegovy and Mounjaro?
Both injections work by changing how your digestive system and appetite hormones behave, which can cause temporary side effects while your body adjusts.
Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Diarrhoea
- Reduced appetite
These symptoms often settle within a few weeks.
Serious Side Effects (Rare)
- Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
- Gallbladder problems
- Allergic reactions
If you experience severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or signs of dehydration, seek urgent medical advice.
Mounjaro vs Wegovy Side Effects
Mounjaro may cause slightly more digestive upset early on due to its dual action, while Wegovy side effects tend to be milder but can still include nausea or constipation. Our pharmacists can help you manage these effects safely.
Which Is Right for Me: Wegovy or Mounjaro?
Your choice depends on several factors, including your medical history, goals, and how your body responds to treatment.
Factors to Consider
- Weight loss goals: Mounjaro may offer greater reduction but isn’t suitable for everyone.
- Medical conditions: Wegovy has more long-term safety data for weight loss.
- Tolerability: Some may find Mounjaro’s side effects stronger.
- Availability: Both are prescription-only and must be supplied by a licensed prescriber or pharmacy.
Our pharmacists will review your health background before recommending the most appropriate weight loss injection for you.
Where Can I Get Wegovy or Mounjaro in the UK?
Both Wegovy and Mounjaro are available privately at registered pharmacies and clinics across the UK. You’ll need a consultation before starting, where your eligibility and dosage plan will be discussed.
Book your appointment with our pharmacists at Touchwood Pharmacy for personalised advice and safe access to clinically approved weight loss injections.
FAQs
Is Wegovy or Mounjaro better for weight loss?
Both injections are effective for weight management, but Mounjaro has shown slightly higher average weight loss in studies. However, individual results vary, and some people tolerate Wegovy better. The right option depends on your health history and how your body responds to treatment.
Can I take Mounjaro or Wegovy if I don’t have diabetes?
Yes. Both Wegovy and Mounjaro are licensed in the UK for weight loss in adults who meet specific BMI criteria, even if they do not have diabetes. A pharmacist consultation is required to ensure it’s suitable and safe for your individual needs.
What are the main differences between Wegovy and Mounjaro?
Wegovy contains semaglutide, which targets one hormone (GLP-1), while Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, which targets two (GLP-1 and GIP). This dual action may lead to greater appetite control and weight reduction with Mounjaro, but side effects can be slightly stronger at the start.
How soon will I see weight loss with Wegovy or Mounjaro?
Most people start noticing weight loss within 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use, combined with a healthy diet and exercise. Maximum results typically appear after several months of regular use under pharmacist supervision.
Are Wegovy and Mounjaro available on the NHS?
As of 2025, Wegovy is available through limited NHS weight management services for eligible patients. Mounjaro is currently available privately at selected pharmacies and clinics, including Touchwood Pharmacy.
What should I do if I experience side effects from Wegovy or Mounjaro?
Mild nausea, bloating, or constipation are common and often improve over time. If side effects persist or become severe, pause the next dose and speak to our pharmacist for advice. They can guide you on dosage adjustments or suitable alternatives.
