How do Wegovy and Mounjaro function, and how well do they work together?
Semaglutide, which is sold under the brand name Wegovy, and tirzepatide, which is sold under the name Mounjaro, are the two drugs that are available for purchase. Ozempic, a treatment for diabetes, also uses semaglutide.
Mounjaro and Wegovy are both administered as weekly injections via pre-filled pens that can be self-injected into the stomach, upper arm, or thigh.
By imitating a hormone known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) they suppress appetite.
After eating, this hormone in the intestinal tract is released, which typically makes people feel fuller.
Another hormone, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), which regulates energy balance and affects metabolism, is also affected by Mounjaro.
The usual starting dose for patients is a low one that is gradually increased until they reach a higher maintenance dose.
Within a few weeks, most people who take these drugs start to lose weight.
Wegovy users could lose more than 10% of their body weight after a year on the treatment, according to clinical trials, if they combined these changes with changes to their diet, exercise, and behavioral support.
Mounjaro users may suffer even more losses, according to other trials. However, it is difficult to compare the two treatments and, most importantly, users of either treatment can regain weight after stopping it.
Who is eligible to receive Wegovy, the “Viagra” of weight-loss medications?
In England, Wales, and Scotland, the NHS only covers Wegovy, but Mounjaro will soon be available as well.
Wegovy can only be prescribed by specialized weight management services, which are difficult to find.
Adults must be obese and have at least one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure, to be eligible.
The drug can also be given to people who have cardiovascular disease and are considered overweight but not obese.
According to NHS guidelines, patients should adhere to a diet and exercise plan, and the medication should only be prescribed for a maximum of two years.
