The answer to the question, “Does taking Wegovy make you tired,” is “yes.”

Wegovy can induce fatigue, and we have seen this reported to us by many of our own Wegovy patients. While most of the side effects of Wegovy have to do with gastrointestinal issues such as gas, bloating, nausea, and diarrhea, fatigue is also a potential side effect of Wegovy and drugs in its class.

Exactly why taking Wegovy can make you tired is not 100% clear. Feeling tired while taking Wegovy probably has mostly to do with the fact that as you start on Wegovy, you will begin to eat considerably less. Eating less could produce less energy until your body adjusts to the lower caloric intake.

Like most Wegovy side effects, Wegovy-induced fatigue will probably clear up after you have been on the drug for a few weeks and your body adjusts to its presence. However, even if your fatigue persists, we have found several ways for our patients to combat “Wegovy Fatigue” and maintain good energy while taking the drug.

How Wegovy Works

Wegovy belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 agonists. These medications, like semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy), provide significant weight loss by making your stomach feel full sooner and stay full longer.

Wegovy also increases the production of insulin, which speeds up your metabolism and helps you burn fat, which further enhances its ability to help you lose weight. In clinical trials, participants on Wegovy lost around 16% of their body weight after about 16 months of taking the drug combined with diet and exercise.

Of course, every patient is different, and how long it takes Wegovy to work will vary, but most of our patients are happy to report that they see results within the first four to six weeks on Wegovy.

As reported in the Wegovy clinical literature and anecdotally from our own Wegovy patients, the most common side effects reported on Wegovy are nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, other forms of stomach distress, headache, and often fatigue.

What Causes Wegovy Fatigue?

Before we talk further about Wegovy and fatigue, let’s first understand exactly what fatigue means. Fatigue is not the same thing as drowsiness. Being drowsy means you feel like you can’t stay awake or need to take a nap. Fatigue, on the other hand, is a general feeling of lack of energy or overall weariness or lethargy.

Unfortunately, fatigue is a known side effect of Wegovy. As to exactly why Wegovy can make you tired, there can be several reasons. The first and most likely reason behind so-called “Wegovy fatigue” is the simple fact that while taking Wegovy, you will be eating less. Calories are fuel, so fewer calories means less energy, which can lead to fatigue. However, caloric reduction is not the only reason that Wegovy can make you feel tired; the impact that Wegovy can have on hormones, metabolism, and blood sugar levels could also lead to fatigue.

Fatigue, like most Wegovy side effects, shows up early within the first few weeks of treatment. However, the good news is that most of our patients tell us that this effect is usually temporary and fades after the early stages of treatment. It is not at all unusual for people new to Wegovy to tell us it makes them feel tired. Our first response to them is to let them know just how common this is in new users and assure them that it will likely pass in a few weeks as their body adjusts. We also counsel them that if, for some reason, the feeling does not abate after a month or so of Wegovy injections, there are ways to manage the issue.

How Long Does Wegovy Fatigue Last?

For most people, Wegovy-induced fatigue does not last long. Again, it should go away, and more normal energy levels return after your first few weeks as your body gets used to the drug. Wegovy fatigue is a well-documented side effect of Wegovy and drugs in its class; however, there really is not a definitive biological or pharmacological basis for these drugs to cause tiredness. Wegovy-fatigue is just your body getting used to the drug and to the reduced amount of food you are consuming. It just takes some time for your body to adjust to the fewer calories. That is why the tiredness fades after a while – usually within the first four to six weeks of taking Wegovy.

But if it does not fade, fortunately, with a specific diet, exercise, and other techniques, we can show you how to combat Wegovy fatigue and get your energy levels back up to where you can enjoy every bit of your newfound body!

How to Combat Wegovy Fatigue

So what happens if you’ve been taking Wegovy for a month or so, and you still feel tired and lethargic? Don’t panic, and don’t think you need to stop taking this life-changing medication. There are ways to combat Wegovy-fatigue. In addition to being sure to eat enough, getting enough sleep, reducing stress, staying hydrated, and taking certain supplements can all help.

As we have said, there is not a specific mechanism of action for Wegovy that makes you feel tired. This means that the cause of Wegovy-induced fatigue is simply the fact that it controls your appetites so well that you are probably not eating enough food! Food is fuel. Your car cannot run on an empty tank, and neither can you!

The simplest way to combat Wegovy fatigue is to fill the tank and eat enough calories each day. It is not just the amount of food but the type of food. In our practice, when anyone tells us they are tired or having any other weird side effects on Wegovy, like hair loss or brittle nails, etc. — it has nothing to do with the drug but lack of adequate nutrition. Therefore, we cannot stress enough how important it is to eat enough while on Wegovy. This means not only during meals but enough small healthy snacks like fruits and veggies throughout the day, this will help to keep your energy levels up.

Moreover, it is not only how much you eat but what you eat. We have found that Wegovy fatigue is usually caused by not eating enough of one particular important nutrient – protein. If you feel constantly tired while taking Wegovy, chances are you do not have enough protein in your diet. So, increase your intake of lean protein, such as skinless white meat chicken, tofu, eggs, and fish.

The other primary way to combat fatigue while taking Wegvoy is regular exercise. A daily exercise routine is a must to maximize your weight loss on Wegovy, but it also combats fatigue. Have you heard the term “exercise high?” It’s a real thing. Exercise, even something as simple as walking, raises endorphins — the feel-good chemicals in your brain. Doing so makes you feel “up” and less tired.

Other ways to feel less tired while taking Wegovy include:

• Getting enough sleep.
• Stay hydrated.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Avoid energy drinks or caffeinated drinks; these may give you a temporary rush of energy but will only make you crash and feel more tired later.
• Try taking small “power naps.”
• Reduce stress.
• Reduce screen time, which can cause eyestrain and add to tiredness.
• Certain supplements can raise energy levels, such as iron, B vitamins, creatine, arginine, and tyrosine.

Once again, if you are new to taking Wegovy and you find fatigue to be an issue — give it time. However, if the lethargy persists for more than eight to ten weeks, speak to your doctor about it.

What it all comes down to is this: Wegovy can make you tired, but the effect is usually temporary. If it lasts longer than a month or so, you can maintain normal energy levels on Wegovy by eating right and getting enough exercise.

Both Wegovy and Contrave are prescription medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to assist with weight loss. They are typically prescribed as part of a comprehensive weight management program, which may include dietary and lifestyle changes, exercise, and behavioral counseling.

While Wegovy and Contrave are both FDA-approved for weight loss, they belong to entirely different classes of drugs. Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. This class of drugs works by mimicking the action of a naturally occurring hormone known as GLP-1 that regulates hunger and satiety (feeling full). Contrave is a combination of two drugs, an antidepressant, and an opioid antagonist; these two medications impact the chemicals in the brain relating to appetite and cravings.

Wegovy and Contrave work very differently. Wegovy has been found to be more effective for weight loss. These are not the only differences between Contrave and Wegovy.

Main Differences Between Contrave and Wegovy

Wegovy is made by Novo Nordisk, and Contrave is made by the lesser-known Orexigen Therapeutics, Inc.

Here are some more details of Contrave vs. Wegovy.

Mechanism of Action

• Wegovy: Wegovy is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It works by increasing feelings of fullness, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing food intake.
• Contrave: Contrave combines bupropion, which affects the brain’s neurotransmitters to reduce appetite, and naltrexone, which helps reduce cravings for food and addictive substances.

Target Populations

• Wegovy: Wegovy is FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 kg/m² or higher who have at least one weight-related condition (such as hypertension or type 2 diabetes) or adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher.
• Contrave: Contrave is approved for use in adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher or adults with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or higher with at least one weight-related condition. It is also approved to help individuals quit smoking. It is most effective for weight loss in people who suffer from obsessive eating or whose weight gain is related to other types of eating disorders.

Effectiveness for Weight Loss

• Wegovy: The active ingredient in Wegovy, semaglutide, has shown remarkable effectiveness in clinical trials, with patients experiencing significant weight loss. On average, individuals taking Wegovy have achieved a more substantial weight reduction compared to Contrave.
• Contrave: Contrave combines two medications, bupropion, and naltrexone, which work together to reduce appetite and cravings. While this can be effective for moderate weight loss in some persons, patients on Contrave cannot achieve weight loss anywhere near as substantial as Wegovy.

Wegovy and Contrave both have an impact on appetite; however, they should not be construed as merely “appetite suppressants.” They are both well-researched medications that impact overeating by targeting different neurological or biological pathways affecting hunger.

Approved for and Usage

Both Contrave and Wegovy are FDA-approved for weight loss, but they are indicated for somewhat different patient populations.

Usage 

• Wegovy: Wegovy is recommended for individuals with obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²) or those who are overweight (BMI ≥ 27 kg/m²) with at least one weight-related condition. It can be taken by individuals with or without diabetes but requires monitoring of blood sugar levels.
• Contrave: Contrave is suitable for individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher or those with a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition. It can be considered for those looking to lose weight or quit smoking. You can take Contrave if you have diabetes; however, if you are taking a diabetes medication, your doctor may need to adjust that medication’s dose since Contrave can lower your blood sugar levels.

Both drugs are indicated for people with similar BMIs and weight-related medical conditions. However, Wegovy is better suited for anyone who struggles with weight, and Contrave tends to be better in people whose obesity is related to “emotional” issues such as stress, overeating, or other emotional disorders.

As to which is easier to get for weight loss, it may be easier to get Contrave, and it may be generally more available than Wegovy, but its results are more limited.

Dosage*

Contrave comes as an oral pill that is eventually taken twice a day. Wegovy comes in a premixed weekly injector pen.

Dosing of either medication will vary based on your condition, medical history, and weight loss goals. Generally speaking, the two drugs are given per the following schedule:

Contrave

Each tablet of Contrave contains 8 mg of naltrexone and 90 mg of bupropion. Contrave is usually started at one tablet daily for the first week and then increases by (1) tablet once per day each week until you reach the full dose of 2 tablets twice daily by week 4 as follows:

• Week Two: One tablet twice daily
• Week Three: Two tablets in the morning and only one (1) tablet in the evening.
• Week Four and beyond Two tablets twice daily.

Wegovy

Wegovy comes in a pen and is injected subcutaneously or under the skin once weekly. A typical Wegovy dosage schedule is:

• First Month: 0.25 mg once weekly (starting dosage)
• Second Month: 0.5 mg once weekly
• Third Month: 1 mg once weekly
• Fourth Month: 1.7 mg once weekly
• Fifth Month: 2.4 mg once weekly (target dosage)

Your weekly injection of Wegovy can be given at day or night, but it is recommended that you take it at the same time of day each week.

Cost**

Like all prescription medications, what you will pay for, either Wegovy or Contrave, will depend on factors ranging from your insurance coverage to the specific pharmacy where you get your prescription filled.

Prices of drugs vary; at the time of publication, without insurance, a one-month supply of Wegovy is about $1600. Right now, Contrave is considerably cheaper, running around 300- 400 a month for a one-month supply without insurance.

Both drugs are too new to have cheaper generic alternatives. Each of the drug’s manufacturers provides a discount card for Wegovy or Contrave, which could save you on the cost of your prescription. Contrave’s maker also has a program called the CurAccess Program, which can save you money by ordering Contrave from a specific mail-order pharmacy. Other pharmacy discount cards could be available that may save you money on either prescription.

Insurance Coverage

Weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Contrave may or may not be covered by health insurance, and this is changing all of the time, so it is best to check with your particular provider. Generally speaking, most insurance policies will only provide coverage for weight loss medication if you have been given a diagnosis of obesity with related health complications and have tried and failed at other ways of losing weight.

There is no indication which drug is more likely to be covered by insurance. Either drug may require “pre-authorization” before providing coverage for the medication.

Results

While both Wegovy and Contrave can be prescribed for weight loss, the results you can achieve on one versus the other really do not compare. Contrave is a combination of two drugs that interferes with the neurological pathways that make you crave certain foods, particularly high-fat and sugary foods, the kind of foods that usually lead to weight gain. Weight loss on Contrave is modest at best. Patients on Contrave typically can lose between 2% and 3% of their total body weight.

On the other hand, Wegovy works by exactly mimicking the effect of the hormone directly related to hunger and feeling full. As such, it has a more direct biological impact on weight and metabolism, and patients can achieve significantly greater weight loss on Wegovy than on Contrave. Patients taking Wegovy have lost as much as 15% of their total body weight.

Both drugs take some time before you get to the maximum daily or weekly dose and, therefore, the optimal results.

Side Effects: Contrave vs. Wegovy

Of the two drugs, the potential side effects of Contrave can be far more serious. Side effects of Wegovy are usually mild and rarely severe. Contrave has some dangerous and even potentially life-threatening side effects.

Wegovy

The most common side effects of Wegovy may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It may also lower blood sugar levels, so individuals with diabetes need to closely monitor their blood sugar.

Contrave

Contrave shares some common side effects with Wegovy, such as nausea, headache, and constipation, but overall, Wegovy is much safer than Contrave.

Most side effects of Wegovy are mild and relate to gastrointestinal issues. Contrave, on the other hand, carries an FDA “boxed warning.” This is the most serious warning placed on a drug by the FDA. A boxed warning alerts doctors and patients about a drug’s effect that can be quite dangerous. The boxed warning for Contrave has to do with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. The warning states, “In people who have depression or other mental health conditions, antidepressants such as bupropion can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.” Bupropion is one of the active ingredients in Contrave.

Contrave can have other serious side effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate, so monitoring is essential, especially for individuals with hypertension.

*Dosing, administration instructions, warnings, and other product information are provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as any kind of medical guidance or instructions for use. Consult your physician, pharmacist, or full prescribing information for guidance regarding your particular prescription for Wegovy or Contrave.

** Prices for prescription drugs are subject to change. Prices provided are for relative comparison purposes only and may not be a reflection of the actual cost of either drug at the time of purchase.

Both Wegovy and Saxenda are drugs that doctors prescribe for weight loss and to treat obesity. They are both FDA-approved for weight loss. The active ingredient in both drugs started out as treatments for type II diabetes. It was in their respective trials for diabetes management that patients on both Wegovy and Saxenda lost weight, which prompted research into their use and approval of weight loss drugs.

Wegovy and Saxenda belong to the class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. Such drugs work by mimicking the effects of a naturally occurring hormone known as GLP-1 that influences hunger, appetite, and glucose metabolism.

Despite these commonalities, Wegovy and Saxenda are different drugs with different active ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at the difference between the two and see which one is more effective for weight loss.

Main Differences Between Saxenda and Wegovy

The main difference between Wegovy and Saxenda is their active ingredients. The active ingredient in Wegovy is semaglutide and the active ingredient in Saxenda is liraglutide. Another significant difference is that Wegovy is a once-weekly injection, and Saxenda is taken daily.

Wegovy and Saxenda are both made by Novo Nordisk.

Mechanisms of Action

Wegovy: Wegovy works by mimicking the effects of GLP-1 in the body. GLP-1 is a hormone that regulates appetite, slows down stomach emptying, and increases feelings of fullness. By activating GLP-1 receptors, Wegovy reduces appetite and caloric intake, leading to weight loss.

Saxenda: Saxenda also activates GLP-1 receptors, resulting in reduced appetite and increased feelings of fullness. It regulates blood sugar levels and slows the emptying of the stomach, helping individuals consume fewer calories.

Prescribed Populations

Wegovy: Wegovy is prescribed for chronic weight management in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher who have at least one weight-related comorbidity such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or type 2 diabetes or for adults with a BMI of 30 higher regardless of comorbidity. This means that Wegovy is indicated for individuals who are significantly overweight or obese and have related health conditions.

Saxenda: Saxenda is also FDA-approved for chronic weight management. It can be prescribed to adults with a BMI of 30 or higher or those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have at least one weight-related comorbidity. Unlike Wegovy, it can also be prescribed to children and teens, ages 12 to 17, with obesity who weigh 132 pounds or more. Saxenda, therefore, has somewhat of a broader range of eligible patients.

Effectiveness for Weight Loss:

Of the two, in a head-to-head clinical trial, patients on Wegovy lost significantly more weight than those taking Saxenda.

Wegovy (Semaglutide 2.4 mg): Wegovy is an analog of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which regulates appetite and glucose metabolism. Clinical trials have shown Wegovy to be highly effective, with participants experiencing an average weight loss of around 15% of their initial body weight, which translates to 50 pounds or more. This weight loss surpasses that achieved by those taking Saxenda.

Saxenda (Liraglutide): Saxenda is also a GLP-1 receptor agonist, and it has been available for weight loss longer than Wegovy. In clinical trials, Saxenda has been shown to help individuals lose an average of only about 5-10% of their initial body weight. While this weight loss could be considered significant for some, it is modest in terms of the weight loss that can be achieved with Wegovy.

Wegovy is clearly more effective than Saxenda for treating obesity, but each drug is a powerful weight-loss medication that positively impacts the way your body burns or stores fat. Each drug is a valuable prescription medication for those who struggle with weight, and neither is to be considered merely an appetite suppressant.

What is Each Approved and Legally Prescribed For?

In 2014, Saxenda was FDA-approved for weight loss in people without diabetes. In 2021, the FDA Approved Wegovy for weight loss in people without diabetes, meeting certain criteria.

Both Wegovy and Saxenda can be used by individuals with type 2 diabetes. In fact, these medications may offer additional benefits for people with diabetes by helping to improve blood sugar control and reducing the need for other diabetes medications.

Because of its greater effectiveness and popularity as a “new” obesity drug, there have been reported shortages of Wegovy. Therefore, it could be easier to get a prescription for Saxenda for weight loss. However, keep in mind that it is not as effective for weight loss as Wegovy. Only your doctor can determine if Saxenda is an alternative to Wegovy for your individual circumstances.

Usage

Both drugs are prescribed for weight loss.

Wegovy is prescribed for people with or without diabetes who have struggled with weight, are considered obese, face the complications of obesity, and have tried and failed at other weight loss methods. It is recommended for patients who need to lose a significant amount of weight and is usually prescribed as part of a complete medical weight-loss program that includes fitness, diet, and lifestyle counseling.

Saxenda can be used for weight loss in patients with or without diabetes who have struggled with weight. Unlike Wegovy, it can also be used in certain children and teens. Since weight loss is generally less with Saxenda than with Wegovy, it is more often prescribed for people who have less to lose than those who are prescribed Wegovy.

Dosage*

Wegovy and Saxenda are both given as subcutaneous injections, which means just below the skin. You can inject your dose of either drug at any time of day, with or without meals. However, Wegovy is a once-weekly injection that should be administered on the same day at the same time each week, while Saxenda is a daily injection that should be administered every day of the week. In either case, it is recommended that you take your injection at the same time every day so that it becomes a part of your daily or nightly routine.

Wegovy is a single-use pen, meaning that each pen of the medication contains a single dose of Wegovy, color-coded for the appropriate dose. Saxenda, on the other hand, comes in a single prefilled pen that contains multiple daily doses of the medication. You can adjust the pen each time you take the medication to deliver a dose of 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg, 2.4 mg, and 3 mg.

Both medications start you out at the lowest effective dose, and you slowly ramp up dosage to the maximum dosage over a period of weeks in order to minimize side effects and allow your body to adjust to the presence of the medication.

A typical Wegovy dosage schedule is:

• First Month: 0.25 mg once weekly (starting dosage)
• Second Month: 0.5 mg once weekly
• Third Month: 1 mg once weekly
• Fourth Month: 1.7 mg once weekly
• Fifth Month: 2.4 mg once weekly (target dosage)

A typical Saxenda dosage schedule is:

• Week 1: Inject 0.6 mg under the skin once daily.
• Week 2: Inject 1.2 mg under the skin once daily.
• Week 3: Inject 1.8 mg under the skin once daily.
• Week 4: Inject 2.4 mg under the skin once daily.
• Week 5 and after, Inject 3 mg under the skin once daily.

Cost**

Both Wegovy and Saxenda are available from the same drug manufacturer and have about the same monthly cost without insurance of about $1500 per month. The final price you’ll pay for either drug depends on your insurance coverage, the pharmacy you use, and any coupons you are eligible for. For example, all three medications

The drug maker Novo Nordisk offers offer savings coupons for people with private or commercial insurance that can bring the cost of Wegovy or Saxenda down to as little as $0–$25 for a monthly supply.

Insurance Coverage

Your insurance provider may or may not provide coverage for Wegovy or Saxenda. Currently, only about one out of every three insurance companies cover weight loss medications such as Wegovy or Saxenda, but that number is constantly changing. Usually, before any insurance company provides coverage for either drug, they will want to see that you have tried and failed at other weight loss methods, or that your weight poses serious other health risks.

There is no information as to which drug is more likely to be covered by insurance. The monthly cost for each drug without insurance runs about the same from about $1300 to $1600 per month**. If you have insurance, the cost of each drug could be reduced with the manufacturer’s copay card, as mentioned above.

Results

Wegovy and Saxenda belong to the same class of drugs and work much the same way. These drugs work by mimicking the effects of GLP-1, a hormone naturally produced by your body that causes you to feel fuller for longer, suppresses appetite, and is also involved in the release of insulin and glucose metabolism. These combined actions are why this class of drugs can be so effective in weight loss.

Wegovy has been proven to provide greater weight loss than Saxenda. It also lasts much longer, much longer than Saxenda. Wegovy continues to work for around 165 hours after injection, while Saxenda lasts just 13 to 15 hours. This is why you take Wegovy only once a week, while you have to take Saxenda every day.

In a study directly comparing weight loss results between the Wegovy and Saxenda, patients taking Wegovy lost significantly more weight than those on Saxenda. After about three months on the medications, the average weight loss was 16% on Wegovy and only around 6% on Saxenda.

Side Effects

Both Wegovy and Saxenda can have side effects, and these can vary from person to person. Common side effects for both medications usually involve gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In both medications, these side effects tend to diminish over time as the body adjusts to the medication.

Both medications carry an FDA label warning about the increased risk of certain cancers. There is no indication that either drug presents a greater risk, and this risk in both was only shown in animals and not humans. Still, because they carry this FDA warning, if you or anyone in your family has a history of cancer, discuss it with your healthcare professional before accepting a prescription for either medication.

*Dosing, administration instructions, warnings, and other product information are provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as any kind of medical guidance or instructions for use. Consult your physician pharmacist or complete prescribing information for advice regarding your prescription for Wegovy or Mounjaro.em>

** Prices for prescription drugs are subject to change. Prices provided are for relative comparison purposes only and may not be a reflection of the actual cost of either drug at the time of purchase.

Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) have been used to manage weight and treat obesity. However, only Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight loss, and that is not the only difference between the two medications.

Both Wegovy and Mounjaro belong to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 agonists, which work by mimicking glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that is in insulin secretion as well as how long food remains in your stomach, therefore having an impact on hunger, digestion and feelings of fullness.

Because of the way this class of drugs affects both insulin and hunger, they have been prescribed both for diabetes management and weight control. However, Wegovy has been clinically studied and approved by the FDA for weight loss, but Mounjaro has not. Let’s take a closer look at some of the differences between Mounjaro and Wegovy.

The main differences between Mounjaro and Wegovy

Wegovy is made by Novo Nordisk. Mounjaro is made by Eli Lilly. They are similar drugs with several significant differences.

Mechanisms of Action

Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, belongs to the class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. GLP-1 is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and appetite.

Semaglutide stimulates GLP-1 receptors in the brain, leading to decreased appetite, increased feelings of fullness, and reduced food intake. Additionally, it slows down stomach emptying, which further contributes to the sense of satiety.

Tirzepatide, the primary component of Mounjaro, is a novel medication that combines the actions of GLP-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) receptor agonists.

Unlike Wegovy and other GLP-1s, this dual mechanism mimics the action of two hormones and targets specific pathways to regulate blood sugar and appetite.

Prescribed Populations

Wegovy and Mounjaro have both been prescribed for weight loss, but they do have somewhat different purposes and target populations.

Wegovy is approved for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher or those with a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related comorbidity such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.

Mounjaro is only approved for individuals with type 2 diabetes to help manage their blood sugar levels. In such individuals, it can promote weight loss, which can improve symptoms and complications of diabetes.

Effectiveness for Weight Loss

Wegovy has been used by patients with and without diabetes. Adults taking Wegovy have lost about 40 pounds on average, or about 15% of their total body weight.

Weight loss of 5 – 10 pounds a month is not unusual on Wegovy, with some patients showing significantly more weight loss per month, particularly when Wegovy is combined with exercise and calorie reduction.

Mounjaro is usually prescribed to help patients manage type 2 diabetes and is only now being studied for weight loss. Interestingly enough, while it is not yet FDA-approved for weight loss, preliminary studies seem to indicate that it could be somewhat more effective than Wegovy.

In studies of Mounjaro, participants taking the highest 15 mg dose lost 20% of their body weight in about the same time period that patients on Wegovy lost about 15%.

Do not confuse either Wegovy or Mounjaro with simple “appetite suppressants” or other so-called “diet pills.” These are well-researched and effective medications, albeit developed for two distinct purposes. Mounjaro, in particular, has a unique mechanism of action and target audience among the class of GLP-1 agonists since it is the only one that also acts as a  (GIP) receptor agonist.

 Legality of Use

The greatest difference between Mounjaro and Wegovy is in what they are approved by the FDA to treat. While it is in testing for approval as a weight loss drug, currently, Mounjaro is only approved as a treatment for type 2 diabetes in adults.

Since 2021, Wegovy has approved weight loss in adults and children 12 and older who meet certain criteria. It is not approved nor prescribed as a diabetes treatment.

Weight loss drugs such as Wegov and Mounjaro have been in very high demand. Since Wegovy is one of the only drugs of its kind that has been approved for weight loss, it has become very well-known, and availability is sometimes low, but Novo Nordisk has been ramping up production of the drug to meet the increased demand.

Because of the popularity of Wegovy, it may be easier to get a prescription for Mounjaro. However, it is not for everyone and should be prescribed with discretion for weight loss; speak to your doctor to see if Mounjaro is right for you.

Usage

Wegovy is approved for weight loss in people who are technically obese or overweight with one or more qualifying conditions. Wegovy is not normally prescribed for diabetes control. However, persons who have diabetes can safely take Wegovy. It is commonly prescribed for weight control in people with “prediabetes.”

Mounjaro is a drug prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar. Doctors have been prescribing Mounjaro “off-label” for weight loss. Off-label means that a drug is FDA-approved and generally recognized as safe, but it is being prescribed for a purpose other than that for which it was tested and approved. Doctors are permitted to prescribe approved drugs off-label following their own discretion.

Dosage

Both Mounjaro and Wegovy are given as a subcutaneous (below the skin) injection using a pen-like injector device.

To give this type of injection, you start by sterilizing the injection site with an alcohol swab. Then, pinch a fold of skin at the cleaned injection site to create a small area of tissue.

Remove the cap of the injector pen of either device and carefully insert the needle into the fold of the skin at a 90-degree angle or as directed by your healthcare provider. Push the plunger down to inject the medication.

Either drug can be taken any time of day or night with or without food; the key is that you take your once-weekly injection at the same time each week.

A typical Wegovy dosage schedule for weight loss is:

• First Month: 0.25 mg once weekly (starting dosage)
• Second Month: 0.5 mg once weekly
• Third Month: 1 mg once weekly
• Fourth Month: 1.7 mg once weekly
• Fifth Month: 2.4 mg once weekly (target dosage)

Like Wegovy, Mounjaro is titrated, meaning your doctor will start you out at the lowest possible dose and slowly increase to the maximum effective dosage for weight loss.

Typically, the starting dosage of Mounjaro is 2.5 mg. In addition to the starting dose, Mounjaro is available in  7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, and 15 mg. Similar to Wegovy, your doctor will probably increase your dosage monthly until you build to the maximum dose. In clinical trials, optimal weight loss was seen in patients on the 15mg dose of Mounjaro.

Cost

Both Wegovy and Mounjaro are on the expensive side as prescription drugs go. But of the two, Wegovy is more expensive, with an average price of around $1600 for a one-month supply, whereas Mounjaro is about $1100.

The price you pay for either drug will likely vary depending on whether you have insurance, your particular healthcare plan, and your pharmacy.

Insurance coverage

Insurance coverage for Wegovy or Mounjaro will vary from insurer to insurer. Insurers are often hesitant to provide coverage for drugs that are specifically prescribed for weight loss, such as Wegovy. However, they usually will cover a diabetes management drug like Mounjaro.

Therefore, it could possibly be easier to get insurance coverage for Mounjaro. It is always a good idea to check with your healthcare plan before speaking to your doctor about prescription options for weight loss to see what may or may not be covered.

The makers of both Wegovy and Mounjaro offer patient assistant savings programs for people with commercial or private insurance. Even if your plan does not cover Wegovy or Mounjaro, you may be eligible. Learn more about the Wegovy Savings Offer and the Mounjaro Savings Offer.

Results

Mounjaro and Wegovy work by mimicking the action of certain naturally occurring hormones that are involved in appetite and glucose metabolism.

While the biological impact is similar, Wegovy and Mounjaro act somewhat differently because they mimic the effects of different hormones. Wegovy mimics the action of GLP-1, whereas Mounjaro also acts like GLP-1 in the body. In addition, it mimics the action of another hormone that Wegovy does not, known as GIP.

The actions of both of these naturally occurring hormones and the drugs that mimic them can make you feel fuller quicker and longer, which can curb appetite and help you lose weight.

As mentioned earlier, one of the early clinical trials looking at Mounjaro for weight loss found that it is potentially more effective at its maximum dose than Wegovy, particularly in patients who are both overweight and have type 2 diabetes.

However, Mounjaro is not approved for weight loss, and Wegovy and Mounjaro have never been compared in a head-to-head trial for weight loss. Therefore, it cannot be said with any degree of scientific certainty which medication will provide better results for weight loss in every circumstance.

Side Effects

As to relative side effects, since both drugs work to some degree on digestion, they have very similar side effects that are mostly related to stomach upset and gastric distress. The most common side effects of both drugs are:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Gas and bloating
• Indigestion
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain
• Upset stomach

Severe side effects such as kidney, liver, or gallbladder issues are rare but have been reported on both medications, so it is important that you tell your doctor if you or anyone in your family has had a history of any such conditions.

Since the most common side effects of Wegovy and Mounjaro are so similar, it’s hard to say which drug may cause you more or fewer issues, and this will likely be based on your particular tolerances or sensitives to the active ingredients in either drug.

Both Wegovy and Trulicity have been prescribed for weight loss. They each belong to the same class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists but do not have the same active ingredient. The active ingredient in Wegovy is semaglutide, in Trulicity it is dulaglutide.

Drugs such as semaglutide and dulaglutide work by mimicking the effects of the hormone GLP-1 in the body. GLP-1 is associated with how long food remains in your stomach and your feelings of hunger or satiety.

The drugs have similar actions, and they are both taken as weekly injectables, only Wegovy has been clinically studied specifically for weight management and has been FDA-approved as a weight loss drug. Trulicity, on the other hand, is approved and normally prescribed for the control of type 2 diabetes, and in such users, it has also been shown to stimulate weight loss.

Let’s take a closer look at the other differences between the two drugs and see which is more effective for weight loss.

Main Differences Between Trulicity Wegovy

Wegovy is made by Novo Nordisk, and Trulicity is made by Eli Lilly.

Here are some more details of Trulicity vs. Wegovy.

Mechanism of Action

Wegovy belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. Such drugs mimic the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). GLP-1 is naturally released after meals and helps regulate appetite. By activating GLP-1 receptors, Wegovy reduces feelings of hunger and promotes a sense of fullness, which can lead to reduced food intake.

Trulicity also belongs to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class and employs dulaglutide to achieve its effects. Similar to Wegovy, Trulicity activates GLP-1 receptors to enhance satiety, delay gastric emptying, and promote insulin secretion in response to meals.

Target Audience

Wegovy is primarily indicated for individuals who meet specific criteria related to their Body Mass Index (BMI). It is typically recommended for those with a BMI of 27 or higher, provided they have at least one weight-related condition.

Alternatively, it is suitable for individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher. Wegovy has also received approval for the management of weight in adolescents aged 12 and older who possess a BMI at or above the 95th percentile relative to their age and sex.

Trulicity is indicated for individuals with type 2 diabetes to manage blood sugar levels. While its primary purpose is glycemic control, its appetite-suppressing effects can also lead to weight loss, making it suitable for overweight or obese individuals with diabetes.

Effectiveness for Weight Loss

Wegovy has been tested in patients with and without diabetes. During FDA evaluation, adults achieved remarkable weight loss results of up to 15% of their overall body weight. In a distinct study focused on adolescents, the average weight loss reached an impressive 16% of their initial body weight.

Trulicity is not specifically prescribed for weight loss, nor has it ever been studied strictly as a weight loss drug; however, while Trulicity’s primary focus is on glycemic control for individuals with type 2 diabetes, it has also exhibited modest weight loss effects.

Clinical trials have reported weight reductions of around 2-6% of initial body weight over a similar timeframe to those in the Wegovy clinical trials. As you can see, that is significantly more modest than the 15% that has been achieved with Wegovy.

As you can see from the above list of significant differences, Wegovy and Trulicity are serious prescription medications with specific mechanisms of action and target populations. They are not diet supplements or “appetite suppressants” but well-researched and approved drugs that mimic hormonal functions in the body.

Legality of Use

Wegovy and Trulicity are both FDA-approved medications, but not for the same purpose. Wegovy is the only drug in the class of GLP-1s that has been specifically approved as a prescription weight loss drug. Trulicity and others, such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, are all prescribed for the control of type 2 diabetes. Trulicity, like these other drugs, has been shown to stimulate weight loss in those using it for diabetes and, therefore, is a good choice for people with diabetes who also need to lose some weight.

Trulicity can be prescribed for weight management in patients without diabetes, but such use is considered “off-label.” That is not meant to imply that there is an increased risk in using Trulicity for this purpose; doctors are permitted to prescribe any FDA-approved drug “off label” at their discretion.

Since Wegovy is the only drug of its kind approved for weight loss, it has become increasingly popular, and there have been some shortages of the medication. While Nove Nordisk is ramping up production of Wegovy to meet the demand, it could be somewhat easier to obtain Trulicity than Wegovy.

However, keep in mind that it is not the same thing as Wegovy and has not yet been studied specifically for weight loss. If you want to consider Trulicity as an alternative to Wegovy, you must make sure that your doctor believes it is right for your particular circumstances and weight loss goals.

Usage

Wegovy is prescribed for adults and adolescents over 12 for weight loss who meet certain criteria. Wegovy is prescribed for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or greater or for those with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or greater who have at least one weight-related comorbidity (such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol). It’s typically used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

Trulicity is prescribed to help lower and control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It does this by increasing the release of insulin and decreasing the production of glucose (sugar) in the liver. Trulicity is typically used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Dosage

Wegovy and Trulicity are both taken as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection taken using a premeasured single-use pen. Using such pen injectors is simple and relatively pain-free. The key is always maintaining sterile conditions, so be sure to thoroughly wash your hands before using the injector pen.

Select a place to do the injection; the abdomen or the thigh are the most common injection sights for these kinds of injections. First, wipe down the injection site with an alcohol swab, which comes with your injector supplies.

Then, once the area has dried, pop the cap off of the pen,  hold the pen like a pencil or a dart, pinch a fold of skin at the cleaned injection site to create a small area for injection, insert the needle into the pinched skin at a 90-degree angle.

After that, press the button to inject the medication, inject the medication slowly and steadily. These are only general instructions for pen injectors of this type; please follow your doctor or pharmacist’s advice or consult your prescription inserts for complete administration details.

The manufacturers of both Wegovy and Trulicity say it does not matter what time of day you take your injections, but just try to do them at around the same time each week.

A typical Wegovy dosage schedule is:

• First Month: 0.25 mg once weekly (starting dosage)
• Second Month: 0.5 mg once weekly
• Third Month: 1 mg once weekly
• Fourth Month: 1.7 mg once weekly
• Fifth Month: 2.4 mg once weekly (target dosage)

A typical Trulicity dosage schedule may look like this:

• Month 1: 0.75 mg injected once weekly for 4 weeks
• Month 2: 1.5 mg injected once weekly for 4 weeks (optional)
• Month 3: 3 mg injected once weekly for 4 weeks (optional)
• Month 4 and beyond: 4.5 mg injected once weekly (optional)

Your healthcare provider will determine your dosage schedule; if you are using Trulicity for weight loss, most likely, he or she will take you up to the maximum dose.

Costs

As with any prescription drug, the cost of either Wegovy or Trulicity will vary based on factors such as location, insurance coverage, and the specific pharmacy where your prescription is filled. Generally speaking, without insurance, a one-month supply of Wegovy is more expensive than Trulicity, with Wegovy costing about $1600 and Trulicity around $950. Each of the drug’s manufacturers provides a discount card for Wegovy or Trulicity, which could save you on the cost of your prescription. Other pharmacy discount plans may be available as well.

Insurance Coverage

Drugs such as Wegovy and Trulicity may or may not be covered by your healthcare plan. Providers are still not 100% on board with covering weight loss medications such as Wegovy, and they may require that other conditions are met before they will cover a prescription for Wegovy. On the other hand, drugs used to manage type 2 diabetes are almost always covered by insurance, and therefore, if you have been prescribed Trulicity for that purpose, most likely, it will be covered. Check with your insurance provider for complete information on coverage for Wegovy or Trulicity.

Results

Users considering using Trulicity or Wegovy for weight loss need to be reminded once again that Trulicity is not technically a weight loss drug, though it does have the same mechanism of action as Wegovy and people being prescribed Trulicity for diabetes management have experienced weight loss. In clinical trials, users of Trulicity experience modest weight loss, only about two to six pounds while taking Trulicity.

On the other hand, weight loss for patients on Wegovy has been quite dramatic, with patients losing 15% of their total body weight.

Side Effects

Being in the same class of drugs, Wegovy and Trulicity have similar side effects, the most common of which are gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, bloating, gas, indigestion, vomiting, stomach pain, or diarrhea. Wegovy does carry some risks of side effects that Trulicity does not, such as diabetic retinopathy, but this is among the rare side effects of Wegovy.

A Wegovy coupon is among several ways that you may be able to reduce the cost of a prescription for Wegovy.

Wegovy is very effective for weight loss, but it can be expensive. The good news is there are ways to save money on Wegovy. Did you know that you can get a Wegovy Coupon, more accurately called a Wegovy Savings Card, on the drug manufacturer’s website?

This card is for people with or without insurance. If you’re eligible, the card can help you save on the cost of your prescription, and those with certain qualifying commercial insurance could pay as little as $25 for a 28-day supply of Wegovy!

It is not hard to get the card if you qualify; the Wegovy Coupon or savings card is part of the drugmaker’s WeGoTogether® program. In addition to access to Wegovy savings, the program offers a dedicated Health Coach who can help you optimize your results with Wegovy. Click here to learn more about this unique program.

Does Wegovy Have a Coupon?

According to Novo Nordisk, Wegovy’s manufacturer, if you have qualifying private or commercial insurance, you can save a maximum of up to $225 on a 28-day supply by paying with a $25.00 coupon card, which is an insurance “copay card.”

With qualifying insurance coverage insurance, you could pay as little as $0 per 28-day supply (1 box) of Wegovy® subject to a maximum savings of $225 per 28-day supply for 12 fills.

After your 12th fill, the coupon entitles qualifying redeemers to pay as little as $25 per 28-day supply (1 box), $50 per 56-day supply (2 boxes), or $75 per 84-day supply (3 boxes) of Wegovy®.

Subject to a maximum savings of $200 per 28-day supply (1 box), $400 per 56-day supply (2 boxes), or $600 per 84-day supply (3 boxes) of Wegovy®.

If you pay cash for your prescriptions or your commercial insurance does not cover Wegovy®, you can save up to $500 per 28-day supply (1 box) of Wegovy with the savings card.

To qualify for this offer, you must have a valid prescription for Wegovy and a valid Prescriber ID#  must be included with the prescription. The offer is only valid if you have private or commercial health insurance or if you are uninsured.

You are not eligible for the Wegovy Savings Coupon if you get any government-funded coverage for prescription drugs such as Medicaid, Medicare, Medigap, VA, DOD, TRICARE, or anywhere such copay savings cards are prohibited by law. Other restrictions may apply; click here to see all eligibility requirements.

How Long is the Wegovy Coupon Good For?

The current savings coupon for Wegovy, as provided by the manufacturer and described above, is good up to and including 12/31/23.

How Much Does Wegovy Cost Without a Coupon?

Wegovy can be expensive if you do not have insurance. Without any insurance or the Wegovy coupon, the monthly cost is about $1600 for a monthly supply (1 box) of Wegovy. Patients without insurance who do not qualify for the copay coupon can reduce the full retail cost by $500 with the Wegovy coupon offer.

Novo Nordisk does provide a “free sample portal” where doctors and other healthcare providers who are licensed to issue legitimate prescriptions may order free samples of any of the drugmaker’s medications, including Wegovy, and your doctor may be willing to pass such samples along to you. However, due to high demand, the availability of these samples is quite limited.

Is There a Cheaper Alternative to Wegovy?

There are several “medical weight loss clinics” that claim to be offering a “generic version” of semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy. There is currently no FDA-approved “generic” version of semaglutide. Wegovy for weight loss was only recently approved and will be patented for many years before an approved generic is available.

The semaglutide advertised by these clinics is NOT approved by the FDA, is not regulated, and is made by compounding pharmacies. It is not recommended that you use this to save money as you could be taking a health risk, and the FDA is currently in the process of cracking down on the sale of such versions of “generic semaglutide.”

Semaglutide is available in other FDA-approved medications, such as Ozempic, which are less expensive per month than Wegovy. However, Ozempic is NOT approved for weight loss, and prescribing it as such is considered “off-label” use. The amount of semaglutide in Ozempic is lower than in Wegovy, and that is why it is prescribed for diabetes management and not weight loss.

There are some other weight loss drugs whose monthly costs are less than Wegovy, such as Contrave, Xenical, or Qsymia, but these are not semaglutide and are, in fact, entirely different drugs with different mechanisms of action. If your doctor has recommended Wegovy, these others may not be right for your situation.

If you have been prescribed Wegovy and the cost is an issue, rather than seeking a less expensive alternative, the best thing you can do is try to lower the cost of your prescription through the patient assistance program.

Some pharmacies might also offer their own discount programs or coupons for specific medications. It’s worth checking with your local pharmacies to see if they have any deals or discounts available for Wegovy.