Updated March 2026
| Feature | Ozempic | Mounjaro |
|---|---|---|
| Drug class | GLP-1 agonist | GLP-1 + GIP dual agonist |
| Approved for | Type 2 diabetes | Type 2 diabetes |
| Average weight loss | ~15% | ~20–22% |
| List price/month | ~$900 | ~$1,000 |
| Dosing | Once weekly | Once weekly |
| Main side effects | Nausea, vomiting | Nausea, diarrhea |
Ozempic works on one hormone receptor (GLP-1). Mounjaro works on two — GLP-1 and GIP. This dual mechanism appears to produce greater weight loss in head-to-head studies. The SURMOUNT trials showed Mounjaro users losing 20–22% of body weight vs ~15% for semaglutide.
Choose Ozempic if: You have Type 2 diabetes and want strong cardiovascular benefits (Ozempic has more CV outcome data), or if Mounjaro isn't covered by your insurance.
Choose Mounjaro if: Maximum weight loss is your primary goal and your insurance covers it. The SURPASS trials show it outperforms semaglutide on weight metrics.
Both drugs are approved for Type 2 diabetes, so insurance coverage depends on your diagnosis. For obesity treatment, Zepbound (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) are the FDA-approved weight loss versions. Manufacturer savings cards can reduce costs significantly — check each drug's official site.