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GLP-1 comparison

Mounjaro vs Ozempic

Different companies, different molecules, different receptors. Both are once-weekly injections approved for type 2 diabetes — and in the head-to-head trial, one produced meaningfully more A1C reduction and weight loss than the other.

Mounjaro

Tirzepatide — dual GIP + GLP-1

Two mechanisms in one molecule. In SURPASS-2, produced ~2× the weight loss and greater A1C reduction versus semaglutide 1 mg. Goes up to 15 mg.

Ozempic

Semaglutide — GLP-1 only

Longer real-world track record, cardiovascular outcomes data (SUSTAIN-6), and typically easier US coverage. Caps at 2.0 mg for T2D.

Side by side

Active ingredient
MounjaroTirzepatide
OzempicSemaglutide
Drug class
MounjaroDual GIP + GLP-1 receptor agonist
OzempicGLP-1 receptor agonist
Manufacturer
MounjaroEli Lilly
OzempicNovo Nordisk
FDA-approved use
MounjaroType 2 diabetes
OzempicType 2 diabetes (± reduce cardiovascular risk in T2D)
Approved for weight management
MounjaroNo — sibling brand Zepbound is
OzempicNo — sibling brand Wegovy is
Dosing frequency
MounjaroOnce weekly, subcutaneous injection
OzempicOnce weekly, subcutaneous injection
Starting dose
Mounjaro2.5 mg once weekly (4 weeks)
Ozempic0.25 mg once weekly (4 weeks)
Maximum dose
Mounjaro15 mg once weekly
Ozempic2.0 mg once weekly
Titration cadence
MounjaroStep up by 2.5 mg every ≥4 weeks
OzempicStep up every ≥4 weeks (0.25 → 0.5 → 1.0 → 2.0 mg)
Average A1C reduction (highest dose vs placebo)
Mounjaro~2.0–2.4% (SURPASS-1 to -5)
Ozempic~1.5–1.8% (SUSTAIN trials)
Average weight loss at highest dose (T2D trials, ~40 wks)
Mounjaro~10–12 kg (SURPASS-2)
Ozempic~4–6 kg (SUSTAIN)
Head-to-head (SURPASS-2)
MounjaroTirzepatide 15 mg: A1C −2.30%, weight −11.2 kg
OzempicSemaglutide 1.0 mg: A1C −1.86%, weight −5.7 kg
Most common side effects
MounjaroNausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, decreased appetite
OzempicNausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation
Boxed warning
MounjaroRisk of thyroid C-cell tumors (MTC/MEN 2 contraindication)
OzempicRisk of thyroid C-cell tumors (MTC/MEN 2 contraindication)
US list price (28-day supply)
Mounjaro~$1,070
Ozempic~$1,000
Cardiovascular outcomes evidence
MounjaroOngoing (SURPASS-CVOT expected 2024–2025)
OzempicSUSTAIN-6: 26% relative reduction in MACE
Pen device
MounjaroSingle-dose, pre-filled autoinjector (one per week)
OzempicMulti-dose reusable pen (one pen = ~4 doses)

Highlighted cells indicate the clearer choice on that row. Sourced from FDA prescribing information and pivotal trials — see references below.

How much would you lose on each?

Project your expected weight loss on tirzepatide or semaglutide from your own weight and dose.

Open the projection calculator

Which one is right for you?

You want the strongest A1C and weight response

SURPASS-2 favored tirzepatide (Mounjaro). If your A1C is high, or weight loss matters alongside diabetes control, Mounjaro is where the head-to-head evidence points.

You want proven cardiovascular protection

Semaglutide (Ozempic) has SUSTAIN-6 data showing a 26% relative reduction in major cardiovascular events in high-risk T2D. Tirzepatide's CV outcome trial is still enrolling.

Cost or coverage is the deciding factor

Both list around $1,000–$1,070 monthly. Coverage varies by plan; some cover one but not the other. Confirm coverage before you commit.

This is educational information, not a prescription or medical advice. The right medication — and whether one is appropriate at all — is a decision for you and a licensed clinician.

Zepbound vs Wegovy

Same molecules, but for weight loss.

Compare

Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide

The molecule-level comparison.

Compare

GLP-1 Dose Calculator

Convert mg to syringe units.

Open

Related in your GLP-1 journey

Full GLP-1 hub →
Zepbound vs Wegovy
The two weight-loss powerhouses head to head.
Compounded vs Brand Semaglutide
Cost, safety and regulation compared honestly.
Ozempic vs Wegovy
Same drug, different indications.
Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide
Dual agonist vs single agonist.
GLP-1 Progress Tracker
Track your journey week over week.
GLP-1 Dose Calculator
Convert mg to units on a U-100 insulin syringe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions and answers about our calculator

Sources

Tool Information

Last reviewed

August 5, 2026

Reviewed by

Dr. Jaydeep Sanghani

Created by

Meet Akabari

Dr. Jaydeep Sanghani

Dr. Jaydeep Sanghani

MBBS, MD, DNB(Anaesth.), PDCC(CCM), DrNB(CCM)

AIIMS Bhubaneswar · AIIMS Rishikesh

Critical care specialist and anesthesiologist with advanced training from AIIMS. Reviews health calculators at Calqulate to ensure medical accuracy and evidence-based standards.

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