Google Trends shows a +5,500% increase for ‘can I swap from Mounjaro to Wegovy’ since last Thursday, highlighting that people in the UK and Northern Ireland are searching for a more cost-effective treatment to continue their weight loss journey.

There has also been issues with some pharmacies running out of stock of Moumjaro, as patients try to get supplies before the price hike. 

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“With Mounjaro’s price rise looming, it’s not surprising that patients are exploring alternatives,” says Jason Murphy, Head of Pharmacy at Chemist4U.

“Wegovy offers a safe, less expensive and almost equally effective weight loss solution and is a very good option to consider if Mounjaro becomes unaffordable.

“However, switching should always be as part of a conversation with your pharmacist or GP. Our role is to guide patients through the process, tailoring advice to their health history, so they can continue their weight loss journey with confidence.”

Both medications are part of a group called GLP-1 receptor agonists

What is Wegovy? Is it the same as Ozempic?

Wegovy and Mounjaro are both weekly injections originally designed for type 2 diabetes but are powerful weight-loss drugs. Wegovy (the brand name for semaglutide) works by mimicking a gut hormone (GLP-1) that curbs appetite and slows digestion. Semaglutide is also branded as Ozempic for managing type 2 diabetes, but is not prescribed for weight-loss in the UK.

Mounjaro goes a step further by also targeting a second hormone, GIP.

“When moving from Mounjaro to Wegovy, it’s not a one-size-fits-all process,” says Jason. 

“Your starting Wegovy dose should always reflect the Mounjaro dose you were previously on, alongside your overall health, and how well you tolerated treatment. That’s why a pharmacist’s review is essential; it ensures the transition is safe, effective, and tailored to your individual needs.”

Who is eligible for Wegovy?

For those who have not taken a weight loss injection before, Wegovy has the same eligibility criteria as Mounjaro.

This means a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with a pre-existing medical condition that is affected by weight (e.g., cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure).

This might be more complicated for patients who have already lost weight on Mounjaro and are now below a BMI of 30, or 27, and now looking to continue their weight-loss, but experts recommend speaking a doctor or pharmacist. 

How do you switch from Mounjaro to Wegovy?

Jason says that when switching, it’s important to not stop Mounjaro until your prescriber confirms the switch to Wegovy is possible.

But, he cautions: “Please note that the manufacturer recommends leaving 30 days from your last dose of Mounjaro and your first dose of Wegovy, to further reduce the risk of side effects, however we understand this could result in stalling your weight loss journey or potential weight gain.”

He adds that if you’ve already lost weight while taking Mounjaro, or are using it to maintain your weight, and are now below the eligibility criteria, you may still be able to switch to Wegovy; a clinical team will review your medical history and decide if it’s safe and suitable.

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What are the Wegovy and Mounjaro side effects?

People respond to medications in different ways, and even though Mounjaro and Wegovy share similar ingredients, some people may tolerate one better than another.

Jason adds: “There are no ‘withdrawal’ symptoms in the usual sense. Some people notice their appetite increases as the medicine wears off, and any side effects usually settle after stopping. If you feel unwell or are unsure what to expect, speak to your prescriber.

“It’s unlikely you’ll gain weight when switching, as the effects of Mounjaro will continue during the seven days after your final dose. You will then immediately start taking Wegovy, which will continue to work in the same way. This means you can continue losing weight while switching, especially if you’re sticking to your diet and exercise plan.”