Mounjaro vs Wegovy UK
Mounjaro and Wegovy are two of the most discussed prescription medications for weight management in the UK. While both are used to support weight loss alongside lifestyle changes, they are not the same medication and work in different ways.
For patients considering private treatment in 2026, understanding the differences between Mounjaro and Wegovy can help set realistic expectations and support informed discussions with prescribers. This guide explains how the medications compare, how prescribing works in the UK, and what factors may influence which option is suitable for an individual.
For a full comparison of UK providers, pricing, and service models, see our Best Mounjaro Provider UK 2026 guide.
What Are Mounjaro and Wegovy?
What Is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, a medication that acts on two hormone pathways involved in appetite regulation and metabolic control. It is administered as a once-weekly injection and is prescribed alongside dietary and lifestyle guidance.
In the UK, Mounjaro is a prescription-only medicine and can be accessed privately following clinical assessment. NHS access is limited and subject to eligibility and local availability.
What Is Wegovy?
Wegovy contains semaglutide, which acts on a single hormone pathway involved in appetite regulation. Like Mounjaro, it is given as a once-weekly injection and is prescribed as part of a wider weight management approach.
Wegovy is also prescription-only in the UK and is available both privately and, in some cases, through the NHS under strict criteria.
Mounjaro vs Wegovy: Key Differences at a Glance
While both medications are used for weight management, they differ in composition and dosing structure.
Key differences include:
| • | Active ingredient: Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) vs semaglutide (Wegovy) |
| • | Mechanism of action: Dual-pathway vs single-pathway hormone action |
| • | Dose ranges: Different titration schedules |
| • | Pricing: Varies by provider and dose |
Both medications require clinical assessment and ongoing monitoring.
How Do Mounjaro and Wegovy Work?
Mechanism of Action (Simplified)
Mounjaro acts on two hormone receptors involved in appetite and blood sugar regulation.
Wegovy acts on one.
For patients, this difference may influence:
| • | Appetite suppression |
| • | Satiety |
| • | Tolerance and side effects |
Individual response varies, and one medication is not automatically “better” than the other for every patient.
Effectiveness: What Can Patients Expect?
Clinical studies show that both Mounjaro and Wegovy can support weight loss when used alongside lifestyle changes. However, individual results vary, and outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Prescribers consider factors such as:
| • | Medical history |
| • | Weight-related conditions |
| • | Previous response to treatment |
| • | Side-effect profile |
Effectiveness is assessed over time, and treatment may be adjusted accordingly.
Side Effects and Tolerability of Weight-loss Medication
Both medications can cause side effects, particularly during dose increases.
Commonly reported side effects may include:
| • | Nausea |
| • | Gastrointestinal discomfort |
| • | Reduced appetite |
| • | Fatigue |
Side effects are usually monitored during titration. Prescribers may recommend dose adjustments or pauses depending on tolerance.
Good provider support is important during this stage.
Dosing and Titration Differences Between Mounjaro and Wegovy
Mounjaro Dosing
Mounjaro is typically started at a low dose and increased gradually over several weeks.
The dosing schedule is designed to help minimise side effects and allow the body to adjust.
Wegovy Dosing
Wegovy also follows a gradual titration schedule, with predefined dose steps over several months.
Both medications require patience during the early stages of treatment.
Mounjaro vs Wegovy: Cost Comparison in the UK
Pricing varies depending on provider, dose, and what services are included.
Typical Private Pricing (2026)
| • | Mounjaro: approximately £99–£359 per month in the UK, depending on dose and provider model |
| • | Wegovy: approximately £149–£259 per month in the UK, depending on dose and provider |
Pharmacy-led providers, such as Superior Pharmacy, typically sit toward the lower end of this range at maintenance doses due to clear, dose-based pricing without subscriptions.
Prices may increase as doses increase. Consultation and delivery fees may or may not be included depending on the provider.
For a detailed breakdown of Mounjaro pricing, see our Mounjaro Price UK guide.
NHS Access: Mounjaro vs Wegovy
NHS Wegovy Access
Wegovy is currently more established within NHS weight management services and may be prescribed under NICE guidance for eligible patients through specialist services.
NHS Mounjaro Access
NHS access to Mounjaro is more limited and subject to local commissioning decisions, eligibility, and service capacity.
In both cases, NHS prescribing is typically part of a specialist programme rather than a standalone prescription.
Which Medication Is More Suitable?
There is no universal answer. Prescribers assess suitability based on individual factors.
Mounjaro may be considered where:
| • | Dual-pathway action is clinically appropriate |
| • | Patients have not responded well to other options |
Wegovy may be considered where:
| • | Single-pathway treatment is suitable |
| • | Tolerability or previous response supports its use |
The choice is always made following clinical assessment.
Switching Between Mounjaro and Wegovy
Some patients switch between medications under medical supervision.
Reasons for switching may include:
| • | Side effects |
| • | Limited response |
| • | Availability or cost considerations |
Switching should always be guided by a qualified prescriber to ensure safety.
For guidance on provider transitions, see our How to Switch Mounjaro Providers in the UK guide.
Provider Support Matters More Than Medication Choice
Regardless of medication, the quality of provider support plays a key role in patient experience.
Important factors include:
| ✓ | Access to qualified clinicians |
| ✓ | Clear dosing guidance |
| ✓ | Support during side effects |
| ✓ | Transparent pricing |
Superior Pharmacy offers both Mounjaro and Wegovy, following a pharmacy-led model with named prescriber oversight and clear pricing structures.
Superior Pharmacy’s Approach to Mounjaro and Wegovy
At Superior Pharmacy:
| ✓ | All prescriptions are issued following clinical assessment |
| ✓ | Named UK prescribers oversee treatment |
| ✓ | Dose reviews and support are available |
| ✓ | No subscriptions or minimum terms apply |
Prescribers:
Raman Sangha, Superintendent Pharmacist & Independent Prescriber (GPhC 2085763)
Resham Sira, Clinical Lead & Independent Prescriber (GPhC 2086835)
This approach allows prescribers to recommend the most appropriate option based on individual circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions: Mounjaro vs Wegovy UK
Is Mounjaro better than Wegovy?
Not necessarily. Suitability varies between individuals.
Can I choose which medication I receive?
You can discuss preferences, but the final decision is made clinically.
Is one safer than the other?
Both are prescription-only medicines with established safety profiles when prescribed appropriately.
Can I switch later?
Possibly, under prescriber guidance.
Next Steps
If you are deciding between Mounjaro and Wegovy, understanding the differences can support informed discussions with a prescriber.
For a full overview of UK providers and services, see our Best Mounjaro Provider UK 2026 guide.
| Compare Providers Now → |
If you would like to explore treatment options with Superior Pharmacy, you can begin by completing the online consultation. All prescriptions are subject to clinical assessment.
Medical Disclaimer
This article provides general information only. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) are prescription-only medicines. Individual experiences may vary.
Treatment decisions must be made by qualified healthcare professionals.
Superior Pharmacy Prescribers: Raman Sangha (GPhC 2085763), Resham Sira (GPhC 2086835).