Blog
Mounjaro vs Semaglutide vs Wegovy
Oct
Mounjaro vs Semaglutide vs Wegovy: Which Weight Loss Injection is Best in the UK?
Mounjaro vs Semaglutide vs Wegovy | Best Weight Loss Injection UK 2025
Compare Mounjaro, Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) in the UK. Learn about effectiveness, side effects, cost, and NHS vs private availability in 2025.
Introduction
Mounjaro vs Semaglutide vs Wegovy
In 2025, weight loss injections are no longer a niche option — they’re mainstream. From celebrity headlines about Ozempic to NHS approval of Wegovy, and the arrival of Mounjaro (tirzepatide), patients in the UK now have several medical options for obesity treatment.
But which one is best for you? This guide compares Mounjaro vs Semaglutide vs Wegovy, looking at how they work, effectiveness, costs, and availability in the UK.
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist originally used to treat type 2 diabetes. It works by slowing digestion, reducing appetite, and helping regulate blood sugar.
Brand names: Ozempic (licensed for diabetes) & Wegovy (licensed for weight loss).
Typical weight loss: 10–15% of body weight when combined with diet and exercise.
Availability in the UK: Limited via NHS; available through private clinics.
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy is simply semaglutide rebranded and licensed specifically for weight management rather than diabetes.
Dose: Higher than Ozempic (up to 2.4mg weekly).
Target group: Adults with obesity (BMI 30+) or overweight with related conditions.
NHS access: Approved in the UK, but strict eligibility rules apply.
Private clinics: Offer Wegovy at a cost of £150–£250/month.
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is the newest breakthrough injection. Unlike semaglutide, it targets two hormones:
GLP-1 (like semaglutide)
GIP (Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide)
This dual action makes Mounjaro even more effective for weight loss in clinical trials.
Typical weight loss: 15–20% of body weight.
NHS access: Currently under review; expected rollout in the coming years.
Private cost: £200–£300+ per month.
Effectiveness Comparison
Injection Average Weight Loss (clinical trials) How it Works Availability (UK)
Ozempic 10–12% GLP-1 NHS (for diabetes), private clinics (limited for weight loss)
Wegovy 12–15% GLP-1 NHS (strict criteria), private clinics
Mounjaro 15–20% GLP-1 + GIP Private clinics, NHS pending approval
Winner for effectiveness: Mounjaro
Winner for availability (2025): Wegovy (NHS-approved, growing access)
Cost Comparison in the UK
Ozempic: £120–£200/month privately
Wegovy: £150–£250/month privately (NHS prescription £9.90 standard fee if eligible)
Mounjaro: £200–£300+ per month privately
⚠️ Prices vary depending on clinic, dose, and whether packages include check-ups or GP consultations.
Side Effects: What to Expect
All three injections share similar side effects:
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Constipation
Stomach cramps
Mounjaro: Some patients report stronger gastrointestinal effects due to dual action.
Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy): Generally well tolerated, but nausea is common in the first weeks.
NHS vs Private Access
Ozempic: NHS only for diabetes. Off-label private prescribing for weight loss.
Wegovy: NHS-approved for weight loss (strict eligibility).
Mounjaro: Private only for now, NHS review in progress.
If you don’t qualify for NHS treatment, private clinics are the main option.
Which One is Right for You?
Choose Wegovy if you want NHS-supported treatment and meet the criteria.
Choose Ozempic if you are diabetic but want weight loss benefits too.
Choose Mounjaro if you want the most effective results and are willing to pay private costs.
FAQ: Mounjaro vs Semaglutide vs Wegovy
Q: Is Mounjaro available on the NHS in 2025?
A: Not yet, but approval is under review. For now, only available privately.
Q: What’s the main difference between Wegovy and Ozempic?
A: Both contain semaglutide, but Wegovy is licensed for weight loss with a higher maximum dose.
Q: Which injection is the most effective?
A: Clinical data shows Mounjaro (tirzepatide) achieves the highest average weight loss.
Q: Can I switch from Ozempic to Mounjaro?
A: Yes, but only under medical supervision. A GP or specialist must guide the transition.
Conclusion
When it comes to Mounjaro vs Semaglutide vs Wegovy, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. For many in the UK, Wegovy offers the best mix of NHS access and proven results. But for patients willing to go private, Mounjaro looks set to become the gold standard for weight loss injections.
Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting or switching treatments — and avoid unsafe online sources offering unlicensed versions.
