Can I Switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro?

If you’ve been using Wegovy weight loss injections for a while and feel it’s not delivering the results you hoped for, you might be considering making the switch to Mounjaro. Exploring different medication options is a natural part of finding the right fit for your weight loss journey and can help you decide what’s best for you moving forward.

Wegovy and Mounjaro work in different ways to support weight management, and what works well for one person might not be the best option for another. Before you decide to make any changes, it’s a good idea to discuss your plans with your GP or pharmacist, who can help review if this change is right for you. 

Mounjaro and Wegovy Comparison 

Ingredients 

The main difference between Mounjaro vs Wegovy is their active ingredients. Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, while Wegovy contains semaglutide.

Tirzepatide in Mounjaro is unique because it activates two hormonal receptors: GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). This dual action targets both blood sugar control and weight loss.

Whereas the semaglutide in Wegovy specifically targets the GLP-1 receptor without affecting other receptors. Both medications work by suppressing appetite, making you feel fuller for longer, and slowing down the rate at which food leaves your stomach.

Doses 

Mounjaro and Wegovy have slightly different dosing schedules:

Mounjaro:

• Starting dose: 2.5mg
• Maintenance doses: 5mg, 10mg, or 15mg
• Highest dose: 15mg

Wegovy:

• Starting dose: 0.25mg
• Maintenance dose: 2.4mg
• Highest dose: 2.4mg

Both medications are typically increased every 4 weeks until you reach the maintenance dose. With Mounjaro, you may not need to take the higher doses if you’re achieving good results at a lower dose. 

Effectiveness

The primary reason for switching from Wegovy to Mounjaro is that Mounjaro may lead to greater weight loss results. Both Mounjaro and Wegovy have shown significant effectiveness in supporting weight loss, although they haven’t been directly compared in clinical trials.

In the SURMOUNT-1 trial, adults treated with 15 mg of tirzepatide (Mounjaro) lost an average of 22.5% of their body weight over 72 weeks, while those on the 10 mg and 5 mg doses lost 21.4% and 16%, respectively. In contrast, the STEP 1 trial for semaglutide (Wegovy) showed an average weight loss of 14.9% over 68 weeks. 

Who can switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro?

If you’re currently on Wegovy and feel it’s not meeting your weight loss goals, you may want to switch to another weight loss medication like Mounjaro. 

You might be eligible to switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro if:

1. You’ve been taking Wegovy but aren’t seeing significant weight loss results.
2. You’re experiencing persistent side effects from Wegovy.
3. Your prescriber recommends the switch based on your medical history and weight loss goals.

To be suitable for Mounjaro, you should:

• Be 18 years or older.
• Have a BMI of 30 or more (considered obese) or a BMI between 27 and 30 (overweight) with a weight-related health condition like high blood pressure or diabetes.
• Not be pregnant or breastfeeding.

Before making any changes, you must speak to your prescriber. They’ll assess your situation and determine if switching is suitable for you.

How to Switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro

If you’re considering transitioning from Wegovy to Mounjaro, here are the steps to follow:

1. Consult your doctor: Before making any changes, discuss your decision with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure it’s the right choice for you.
   
2. Stop taking Wegovy: Finish your current Wegovy pen as directed.
   
3. Wait period: Allow time for Wegovy to leave your system. Typically, you should wait at least 5 weeks after your last Wegovy injection before starting Mounjaro. This break between medications is important for your safety when switching medications.
   
4. Start Mounjaro: Start taking Mounjaro at the lowest dose of 2.5mg, even if you were on a higher dose of Wegovy. This helps your body adjust to the new medication and minimises potential side effects.
   
5. Follow the dosing schedule: Stick to the recommended Mounjaro treatment schedule, which usually involves increasing your dose every 4 weeks. 

Always follow medical guidance throughout this process. Monitor your progress and contact your doctor if you want to make any adjustments to your treatment plan.

Switch to Weight Loss Treatment with Click2Pharmacy 

Whether you’re switching from another injectable weight loss medication or starting your weight loss journey, our online weight loss clinic is conveniently here to help. Our experienced team understands that transitioning between medications can be challenging, so we want to ensure a smooth switch and help you achieve your weight loss goals.

With Click2Pharmacy, you can consult with licensed pharmacists from the comfort of your home. We’ll assess your individual needs, look at your current medication, and determine if Mounjaro is the right choice for you.

Don’t let your weight loss goals stall. Take the next step towards a healthier you by visiting Click2Pharmacy’s online weight loss clinic today. 

Wegovy and Mounjaro FAQs

Can you alternate Wegovy and Mounjaro?

No, you should not alternate between Wegovy and Mounjaro. These medications work differently and have different dosing schedules. Alternating could lead to unpredictable effects and potentially dangerous side effects.

Can I take Mounjaro and semaglutide at the same time?

No, you should not take Mounjaro and semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy) together. Both medications work on similar pathways in the body, and combining them could increase the risk of side effects without providing additional benefits.

Can you switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro on a higher dosage?

If you’re switching from Wegovy to Mounjaro, you should always start at the lowest dose of Mounjaro (2.5mg), regardless of your previous Wegovy dose. This allows your body to adjust to the new medication and helps minimise potential side effects. 

Do you get withdrawal symptoms if you switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro?

You typically don’t experience withdrawal symptoms when switching from Wegovy to Mounjaro. However, as Wegovy leaves your system, you might notice changes like an increase in appetite or some gastrointestinal discomfort. These changes aren’t technically withdrawal symptoms but rather a return to your body’s baseline.