How to Switch from Mounjaro to Wegovy
The demand for effective weight loss injections continues to rise, with medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy leading the way. Both are powerful tools for managing obesity and type 2 diabetes, but they work in different ways and may suit different patients.
Many people are now switching from Mounjaro to Wegovy due to reasons like cost, insurance coverage, side effects, or simply better availability in their region. While both medications are GLP-1-based, transitioning between them isn’t as simple as picking up a new prescription.
To switch safely and avoid unnecessary side effects or setbacks, it’s important to take a brief pause between treatments, ensure doses are properly matched, and follow guidance from your healthcare provider. In this guide, we’ll walk you through when and how to make the switch from Mounjaro to Wegovy safely and effectively.
Mounjaro vs Wegovy: What’s the Difference?
Wegovy (semaglutide) works by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which helps increase feelings of fullness after eating and reduces overall appetite. It also slows down how quickly food leaves the stomach, which further supports satiety. These combined effects lead to reduced food intake and better blood sugar control.
Mounjaro (tirzepatide), on the other hand, mimics two hormones: GLP-1 and GIP. While GLP-1 offers the same benefits as Wegovy, GIP enhances the body’s response to insulin, supports fat metabolism, and improves how the body uses stored energy. This is due to the dual hormone pathway.
It also contributes to appetite regulation and boosts the effectiveness of GLP-1, making Mounjaro potentially more powerful in terms of both weight loss and metabolic health.
Can You Switch from Mounjaro to Wegovy?
Yes, you can switch from Mounjaro to Wegovy, but it must be done under medical supervision. This is because both medications affect similar hormonal pathways primarily through GLP-1 receptor activation. Starting Wegovy immediately after Mounjaro may increase the risk of compounded side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, or digestive discomfort.
To transition safely, most patients are advised to wait around one week before starting Wegovy. This helps prevent side effects from overlapping and allows your body to clear the previous medication and reset before starting the new one.
Avoiding overlap is key to reducing side effect intensity and ensuring the new medication works effectively without added strain on your system. It is important to always consult your healthcare provider to determine the safest timing and dose when making the switch.
Safe Switching Protocol: How to switch from Mounjaro to Wegovy step by step
Here is a step-by-step guide to switching from Mounjaro to Wegovy safely.
Stop Mounjaro
Complete your last scheduled dose as advised by your clinician.
Wait 7 Days
Allow one full week before starting Wegovy to reduce the risk of overlapping side effects, especially gastrointestinal ones.
Start Wegovy at the Appropriate Dose
Choose a starting Wegovy dose based on your most recent Mounjaro dose, or begin conservatively depending on your tolerance.
Important note:
Since these medications work differently in the body, there are no exact dose equivalents or direct conversions. The right Wegovy dosage after stopping Mounjaro will depend on your individual health, treatment response, and other factors. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose and monitor your progress and any side effects closely.
What to Expect After Switching
After switching from Mounjaro to Wegovy, you may experience some side effects. These can include nausea, bloating, fatigue, or constipation. However, many patients find Wegovy better tolerated, especially if Mounjaro causes stronger gastrointestinal symptoms.
While Wegovy remains highly effective for weight loss, it may produce slightly slower or less dramatic results compared to Mounjaro. This doesn’t mean it’s not working, but that your body may respond differently to the change in medication.
Weight plateaus are also common during the transition period. This is normal and often temporary. It can take a few weeks for your body to adjust, so focus on maintaining consistent habits and give the new medication time to work.
If you’re unsure about your progress or experience a setback, check in with your healthcare provider for a review of your dose and support with next steps.
Important note:
Patients can only start at an intermediate dose of Wegovy if they have used Wegovy before. If they are switching from Mounjaro but using Wegovy for the first time, they must start at the lowest dose (0.25mg) to reduce side effect risk.
Cost Comparison: Mounjaro UK Vs. Wegovy UK
Mounjaro:
Prices in the UK range from £133 to £330 per month, depending on the dose. The breakdown according to dosage is as follows:
- £175 for 2.5 mg
- £195 for 5 mg
- £249 for 7.5 mg
- £275 for 10 mg
- £295 for 12.5 mg
- £325 for 15 mg
Wegovy:
Prices of Wegovy in the UK are as follows:
- £135 for 0.25 mg
- £150 for 0.5 mg
- £165 for 1 mg
- £195 for 1.7 mg
- £235 for 2.4 mg
Both medications are available on the NHS in the UK, but only for patients who meet strict eligibility criteria, which is typically a BMI over 35, or over 30 if there’s an additional weight-related health condition (like type 2 diabetes or hypertension).
While NHS access is low-cost, it’s often limited and subject to long waiting times and strict protocols. In contrast, private clinics offer faster access and greater flexibility, though at a higher out-of-pocket cost. It’s best to check with your local NHS provider for the latest availability and referral process.
When to Seek Medical Advice
You should contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe or persistent side effects (such as ongoing nausea, vomiting, dehydration, or fatigue), or if your weight loss has stalled for more than 3 months despite staying consistent with medication and lifestyle changes.
It’s also important to seek guidance if you’re uncertain about dose equivalence when switching from Mounjaro to Wegovy. Professional support ensures safe adjustments and helps optimise your treatment plan.
FAQs
Do I need to start on the lowest Wegovy dose?
Not always. If you’re switching from a higher Mounjaro dose, your provider may recommend starting at 0.5 mg or 1 mg of Wegovy. However, starting with a lower dose is often safer for those prone to side effects.
Can I skip the washout period?
No, a 7-day washout period is strongly recommended to avoid overlapping side effects. Skipping this step may increase the risk of nausea, vomiting, or fatigue.
Will I lose weight as quickly on Wegovy?
Weight loss may be slightly slower on Wegovy compared to Mounjaro, as it targets only one hormone instead of a dual pathway like Mounjaro. However, many people still see strong, steady results with consistent use.
What if I experience stronger side effects?
It is important to speak with your healthcare provider, never adjust your dose on your own. They may suggest lowering your dose temporarily or pausing treatment until symptoms settle.
Is Wegovy available on the NHS?
Yes, but access is limited. It’s typically prescribed only to patients with a BMI over 35, or over 30 with a weight-related condition. Availability also depends on your local NHS trust and referral pathway.
Key Takeaways:
- Switching from Mounjaro to Wegovy is possible but should be done under clinical supervision.
- A minimum 7-day washout period is recommended to reduce the risk of overlapping side effects.
- Mounjaro targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, while Wegovy targets only GLP-1, which may result in a milder effect for some patients.
- Side effects such as nausea and fatigue may occur, but are often better tolerated with Wegovy.
- Weight loss outcomes may vary as Wegovy typically offers steady but potentially slower results compared to Mounjaro.
- Dosing must be tailored based on previous Mounjaro use, and lower starting doses of Wegovy may be advised.
- Costs differ, with Wegovy generally more affordable at entry doses. Mounjaro becomes more expensive at higher strengths.
- Both treatments are available through the NHS under strict criteria, though private options provide faster access.
- Seek medical advice if you experience persistent side effects, unclear dose conversion, or if progress stalls beyond three months.
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Disclaimer
At Weightless, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date health information that is carefully reviewed by medical professionals. However, the content on this blog is intended for general knowledge only and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always speak with a qualified healthcare professional about any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health. Information here should not be used to make decisions about your personal care without professional guidance.
