What Is Key Difference Between Mounjaro, Ozempic? Explained
Mounjaro and Ozempic are primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults, and weight loss is one of their known effects.
Ever since Mounjaro and Ozempic started trending, everyone’s interest in knowing more about these prescribed drugs has increased. These two medications became a part of celebrity gossip after multiple famous figures were accused of using them, as fans saw dramatic weight loss. Amid the increasing conversation surrounding these medications, many still don’t know the crucial difference between the two and their side effects. If you are also one of those who are keen on exploring more about them, take a look below!
Difference Between Mounjaro And Ozempic!
Before we mention the key differences between Mounjaro and Ozempic, it’s worth noting that they are type 2 diabetes medications that are prescribed to help lower blood sugar, with one of their known effects being weight loss. However, they work differently in the body. As mentioned in Forbes Advisor’s article, Mounjaro, made by pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly, is the brand name for tirzepatide, a medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes. It works by activating receptors for two hormones in the body called GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). On the other hand, Ozempic, made by Novo Nordisk, is the brand name for semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. When a person takes Mounjaro, tirzepatide reportedly activates GIP and GLP-1. For the uninitiated, GIP, which is a gut hormone, is responsible for regulating blood sugar. On the other hand, after consuming food, GLP-1 is released in the gut, triggering insulin release. It is also responsible for slowing down digestion and regulating hunger signals. As far as Ozempic goes, semaglutide works by activating the GLP-1 receptor, which helps control blood sugar levels and appetite.
Possible Side Effects
According to Forbes Advisor, Mounjaro’s side effects, as listed in its official prescribing information, include nausea, diarrhoea, decreased appetite, vomiting, constipation, indigestion, stomach pain, bloating, belching, gas, reflux or heartburn, feeling tired, changes in taste, increased heart rate, weight loss, injection-site reactions such as bruising, pain, irritation, itching and rash, and unusual skin sensations such as burning, tingling or pricking. Its more serious side effects can include diabetic retinopathy, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), acute pancreatitis, dehydration that can lead to sudden kidney failure, and sudden gallbladder problems.
On the other hand, Ozempic’s reported side effects include weight loss, less appetite, gallstones, feeling dizzy, feeling tired, headache, vomiting, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), indigestion, gastritis, stomach pain, bloating of the stomach, reflux or heartburn, constipation, burping, gas, increased pancreatic enzymes, and complications of diabetic eye disease (retinopathy). Its uncommon side effects include changes in the taste of food or drinks, allergic reactions such as rash, itching or hives, a fast pulse and injection-site reactions such as bruising, pain, irritation, itching and rash.
If you’re considering taking either of these medications, consult a doctor first to understand whether they’re right for you.
Also Read: GLP-1 Drugs: Side Effects, Risks And Myths Explained
First Published: September 24, 2026 8:21 PM
