Switching From Mounjaro To Wegovy Injections
If you’re already using Mounjaro injections, switching to Wegovy injections might feel like a big decision. You may be wondering whether it could cost less, if the side effects will feel easier, or whether it simply might suit you better – without undoing your progress.
The good news is that changing treatment doesn’t necessarily mean starting again. But Mounjaro and Wegovy contain different active ingredients, so it isn’t a simple dose-for-dose swap.
This guide explains how the switch works, what you might notice as your body adjusts and how your prescriber will help you find an appropriate Wegovy dose.
Prefer a daily tablet? Read our Switching From Mounjaro Injections to the Wegovy Pill guide.
Switching From Mounjaro to Wegovy Injections: Key Info
Key Takeaway 1
Your prescriber will guide the switch and choose an appropriate Wegovy starting dose.
Key Takeaway 2
There’s no direct dose-for-dose swap: Mounjaro contains tirzepatide; Wegovy contains semaglutide.
Key Takeaway 3
You’ll usually start Wegovy when your next Mounjaro dose is due, following your prescriber’s advice.
Key Takeaway 4
Your appetite or weight-loss progress may change temporarily while your body adjusts.
Can You Switch From Mounjaro Injections to Wegovy Injections?
Yes, switching may be an option if Mounjaro no longer feels right for you, whether because of side effects, cost or a desire for a treatment that better suits your needs.
While both help with weight loss, they work slightly differently and have different dosing schedules. You will start your first Wegovy injection when your next Mounjaro dose is due and continue taking it on the same day each week. However, you need to make the switch under clinical supervision. Your prescriber will look at your current dose and how you’ve dealt with any side effects before helping you plan the change.
If you’d like to know which dose you might start on, get in touch with our clinical team.
Can You Switch From Mounjaro Injections to the Wegovy Pill?
Yes, you can switch from Mounjaro injections to the Wegovy pill. Because Mounjaro contains tirzepatide and the Wegovy pill contains semaglutide, your prescriber will guide you through the transition. You’d typically start taking the pill on the day your next Mounjaro injection is due, and then continue taking it daily from then on.
Unlike Mounjaro, which is taken weekly, the Wegovy tablet is taken once a day on an empty stomach. You can read more about how it works in our Complete Guide to Wegovy Tablets.
Who Is Eligible to Switch From Mounjaro to Wegovy Injections?
If you’re switching from Mounjaro, you may still be eligible for Wegovy even if you’ve already lost weight and your BMI is now lower than when you started treatment.
Eligibility depends on factors including your BMI and medical history. Check the full Wegovy eligibility criteria, including the BMI requirements and who can and can’t use it, on our treatment page.
Why People May Decide to Switch to Wegovy Injections
You're looking to reduce the cost of treatment long term
Depending on the dose you're taking and your provider, Wegovy may work out less expensive than Mounjaro, especially over time.
You're finding the side effects difficult
Both medicines can cause nausea, vomiting and other digestive side effects, but some people find they tolerate one treatment better than the other.
Your treatment needs have changed
What suited you when you started your weight-loss journey may not be what works for you now. Your progress, preferences and overall health can all influence which treatment is most appropriate, so it may be worth reviewing your options with your prescriber.
What Wegovy Injection Dose Will You Switch To?
There isn’t a direct dose swap between Mounjaro and Wegovy. Your prescriber will look at your current dose, how long you’ve been taking it and how well you’ve been getting on with treatment to decide what dose to start you on.
Here’s a guide to the Wegovy starting doses your prescriber may consider:
| Current Mounjaro injection dose | Wegovy injection starting dose that may be considered |
|---|---|
| 2.5mg | Up to 0.25mg |
| 5mg | Up to 0.5mg |
| 7.5mg | Up to 1mg |
| 10mg | Up to 1.7mg |
| 12.5mg | Up to 1.7mg |
| 15mg | Up to 1.7mg |
Increasing Your Dose After Switching
You’ll usually stay on your new Wegovy dose for at least 4 weeks before increasing it. But reaching the 4-week mark doesn’t automatically mean it’s time to move up.
Your prescriber will consider how well you’re tolerating your current dose and any side effects you’re experiencing before deciding whether to increase it. If you’re still struggling with side effects, you may need to stay on your current dose for longer.
What’s the Difference Between Mounjaro and Wegovy Injections?
While both are injectable GLP-1-based medications, there are some key differences:
| Mounjaro injections | Wegovy injections | |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide |
| Type of medication | Dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist | GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Dosing frequency | Once weekly | Once weekly |
| Starting dose | 2.5mg | 0.25mg |
| Titration | Gradual increase every 4 weeks | Gradual increase every 4 weeks |
| Common side effects | Nausea, diarrhoea, constipation | Nausea, diarrhoea, constipation |
Is Wegovy as Effective as Mounjaro Injections?
If you're comparing the headline numbers, Mounjaro has produced greater average weight loss than Wegovy in separate clinical trials. However, these were not direct head-to-head studies, so the figures cannot show precisely how the treatments compare for an individual patient.
But choosing a treatment isn't simply about chasing the biggest percentage. Cost, side effects, your routine and how your body responds all play a part in finding the treatment that's right for you.
Mounjaro Vs Wegovy Injections in Clinical Trials
Clinical trials of Mounjaro and Wegovy are not direct head-to-head studies, so the figures cannot show precisely how the treatments compare for individuals.
- Mounjaro injection: People taking the highest dose of Mounjaro lost an average of 22.5% of their starting body weight after 72 weeks, assuming they continued treatment as planned
- Wegovy injection: People taking Wegovy 7.2mg injections lost an average of 20.7% of their starting body weight after 72 weeks, assuming they continued treatment as planned
And it’s worth knowing that you don't have to hit the biggest percentages to see health benefits. The NHS reports that losing even 5% of your body weight can improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels.⁴
Wegovy Weight Loss Injections
Wegovy is a specially formulated medication that’s clinically proven to aid weight loss. Taken as a weekly injection, it could help to control your appetite and prevent you eating more than you need to.
Are the Side Effects of Mounjaro Better or Worse Compared to Wegovy?
The side effects are mostly the same. The most common side effects are:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
They are typically worse when you start medication and when you increase your dose. You could try eating more slowly, eating smaller meals and avoiding high-fat and greasy foods to help you manage digestive side effects.
How the Switching Process Works
In most cases, you'll take your first Wegovy injection when your next Mounjaro injection would have been due. So if you normally inject on a Wednesday, you'll usually start Wegovy on the following Wednesday.
How Will Switching From Mounjaro to Wegovy Injections Affect My Weight Loss Progress?
This is often one of the biggest worries. If Mounjaro has helped you lose weight, it's completely understandable to wonder whether changing treatment could undo all your hard work.
Try not to judge the switch too quickly. One slower week of weight loss doesn't tell you whether Wegovy is working, and your prescriber can review your progress as your dose increases.
And remember, the scales aren't your only measure of progress. The British Heart Foundation explains that carrying excess fat around your middle is particularly linked with cardiovascular and metabolic risk, so changes to your waist measurement can be worth paying attention to as well.⁵
How to Manage Common Side Effects After Switching
When you switch from Mounjaro to Wegovy, your body has to adjust to a different medicine and dose.
Give your body time and pay attention to how you're feeling. To help make the transition easier, you could try eating smaller meals, staying hydrated and avoiding any foods that may trigger symptoms. You could also consider using The Independent Pharmacy’s GLP-1 Side Effects Treatment Pack if you’re finding side effects difficult to manage.
If you're looking for more advice on managing nausea, constipation or other common GLP-1 side effects, see our Wegovy treatment page.
How to Safely Stop Taking Mounjaro Injections
You don’t usually need to gradually reduce your Mounjaro dose before stopping, but you should always follow the advice of your prescriber.
As Mounjaro leaves your system, you may notice your hunger or food cravings beginning to return. In one study, people who stopped tirzepatide and switched to placebo regained around 14% of their body weight over the following year.6
Building healthy eating and activity habits while taking Mounjaro may help you manage your weight in the longer term. If you’re stopping because of cost, you could also speak to your prescriber about lower-cost maintenance options, including oral GLP-1 treatments where suitable.
How Wegovy Injections Work
Wegovy contains semaglutide, which works by helping you feel fuller for longer and reducing your appetite.
Want to know more? Read our complete guide to Wegovy injections, including how they work, expected weight loss and common side effects.
How to Take Wegovy Injections
You’ll continue taking one injection a week.
For more detailed information with step-by-step instructions, storage advice and tips, visit our Wegovy injections treatment page.
What to Expect After Switching From Mounjaro to Wegovy Injections
The weekly routine may feel familiar, but the medicine itself is different. During the first few months, your appetite, side effects and weight-loss progress may not feel exactly the same as they did on Mounjaro.
Don’t worry – that doesn’t automatically mean anything has gone wrong or isn’t working. Your prescriber may need time to adjust your Wegovy dose and see how your body responds.
Short-Term (1-3 Months)
During the first few months, it's normal for things to feel a little different while your body adjusts.
Experience an adjustment period: Your body will need time to adapt to semaglutide.
See temporary changes in appetite: You may notice increased hunger or food cravings while switching, as Mounjaro acts on two hormone receptors whereas Wegovy acts on one.
Experience some of the same side effects: Nausea, constipation, diarrhoea or stomach discomfort may occur as your body adjusts, particularly after dose increases.
See changes in your weight-loss progress: Your weight loss may continue steadily, or you may experience a temporary plateau before progress resumes.
Long-Term (6+ Months)
After 6 months or so, you may:
See continued weight loss: You should continue to lose weight when taking Wegovy alongside a healthy diet and regular physical activity.
Experience more effective appetite control: Hunger and food cravings should remain well managed once you've reached a suitable maintenance dose for you.
Get into a familiar weekly routine: Like Mounjaro, Wegovy is taken as a once-weekly injection, making it easy to fit into your routine.
When to Speak With a Clinical Specialist
Switching to a new treatment can bring questions, but The Independent Pharmacy’s clinical team is here to support you before, during and after your switch to Wegovy.
Get in touch if:
- You're unsure whether switching is the right option for you.
- You're finding the daily routine difficult to manage or have questions about taking the Wegovy pill correctly.
- Your side effects aren't settling down or are making it difficult to continue treatment.
- You're concerned about your progress, including changes in your appetite or weight loss.
- You have questions about taking Wegovy alongside your other medicines or how an existing health condition may affect your treatment.
How to Make the Switch Simple & Successful
Switching from Mounjaro to Wegovy injections may be a smooth transition if you:
- Start Wegovy at the right time – take your first Wegovy injection when your next Mounjaro dose is due, following your prescriber's advice.
- Follow your prescribed dosing schedule – Wegovy doses are increased gradually to help minimise side effects.
- Be patient – your body may take a few weeks to adjust, and weight loss may not be perfectly consistent during the transition.
- Keep up the healthy habits you've already built – continuing a balanced diet and regular physical activity will support your progress.
- Stay in touch with our experienced clinical team – they can review your progress, manage side effects and make sure your treatment stays on track.
Can You Switch Back to Mounjaro Injections if Wegovy Doesn't Work for You?
Yes, you can switch back to Mounjaro if Wegovy doesn’t work for you.
It’s important to give Wegovy some time to work, as you’ll likely start on a lower dose to get your body used to the new medication. But if you’re experiencing more side effects on Wegovy or aren’t seeing the results you expected, speak to your prescriber about the right option for you.
Mounjaro Weight Loss Injections
Mounjaro is a prescription-only weight loss medication that’s designed to reduce your appetite and help you to feel fuller for longer.
When Is Switching to Wegovy Not the Right Option?
You shouldn’t switch to Wegovy if:
- You’re losing weight well on Mounjaro – if it’s working for you, there’s probably no need to switch
- You’re allergic to any of the ingredients
- You’re looking for a direct swap – this is not a like-for-like swap
- You’re unable to tolerate GLP-1 medications – if you’ve experienced severe side effects on Mounjaro, the same might be true for Wegovy
- Your prescriber recommends staying on Mounjaro, or suggests another option that might work better for you, such as the Wegovy pill
Interested in Switching?
Thinking about switching is one thing – knowing whether it's the right move for you is another.
Your current dose, progress, side effects and personal preferences can all help shape that decision. Our clinical team can review your treatment and help you decide whether Wegovy is the right next step.
Still deciding? Explore our Wegovy injection treatment page for pricing, dosage information and expected results, or compare all of our prescription weight-loss treatments.
FAQs: Switching From Mounjaro to Wegovy Injections
Is Mounjaro as good as Wegovy?
Mounjaro has produced greater average weight loss in its clinical trials, but that doesn't mean it's the right choice for everyone. Cost, side effects, your routine and how your body responds all matter too. If Mounjaro no longer feels like the best fit, switching to Wegovy may be worth discussing with your prescriber.
What are the other alternatives to Mounjaro injections?
There are many other weight-loss medications you can try depending on why Mounjaro isn’t working for you. These include:
The most suitable option depends on your medical history, treatment goals and whether you prefer a weekly injection or a daily tablet.
Is Wegovy cheaper than Mounjaro?
It can be, but don't just look at the headline price. The cost depends on your dose, your provider and how long you stay on treatment. It's worth comparing the total monthly cost rather than assuming one medicine is always cheaper than the other.
Does switching my GLP-1 treatment mean I have to start from scratch?
Thankfully, no. One of the biggest worries people have is losing the progress they've worked so hard for. While your new Wegovy dose won't be an exact match for your Mounjaro dose, your prescriber will recommend a starting dose based on your current treatment and how you've responded so far, so you won't usually be going right back to the beginning.
Do weight loss injections work faster than pills?
Not necessarily. At the highest doses, injections seem to come out on top, but the gap in results is narrowing. It’s also important to note that these treatments have not been directly compared in head-to-head studies, so the figures cannot prove precisely how the treatments differ for an individual patient.
On average, studies have shown that:
- People taking Mounjaro lost around 22.5% of their body weight after 72 weeks.¹
- People taking Wegovy 7.2mg had an average weight loss of 20.7% after 72 weeks.²
- People taking the Wegovy pill at 25mg daily lost up to 17% of their body weight over 64 weeks.³
What works best for you will depend on your lifestyle and weight loss goals. If you’d like help to decide, our clinical team can support you.
Can you stop Mounjaro suddenly and is it safe to do so?
Yes, you can, but it’s worth having a plan. Mounjaro doesn’t cause physical dependence, but stopping suddenly may cause your appetite and food cravings to return, making it harder to maintain your weight loss.
If you're switching to Wegovy, your prescriber will tell you when to stop one treatment and start the next, so it should be a fairly smooth transition.
How long should you wait between your last Mounjaro injection and your first Wegovy injection?
7 days. You would usually take your first Wegovy injection when your next Mounjaro injection would have been due, leaving 7 days between doses. However, your prescriber will confirm the most appropriate timing for your switch.
How long does it take to adjust to Wegovy after switching?
Usually a few weeks, but everyone's different. Some people settle into Wegovy quite quickly, while others notice temporary changes in appetite or digestive side effects as they adjust to the new treatment. Give your body time and keep your prescriber updated if anything doesn't feel right.
Can you take Mounjaro and Wegovy injections at the same time?
No, absolutely not – and using both won't improve your results. Mounjaro and Wegovy work in similar ways, so using them together could increase your risk of side effects without making either treatment more effective. Always follow the switching plan agreed with your prescriber.
Can you take Wegovy injections and tablets at the same time?
No. Wegovy injections and the Wegovy pill both contain semaglutide, so they should not be used together. If you're switching between the two, follow your prescriber's instructions on when to stop one treatment and start the other.
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