How to Switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro?

How to Switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro?

02 / Sep

Are you wondering why Wegovy isn’t delivering the results you had hoped for? It might be time to consider a different approach.

Sometimes, switching to a new medication can be the key to achieving the weight loss outcomes you desire. If you’re contemplating transitioning from Wegovy to Mounjaro for better weight loss results, you’ve come to the right place.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the process of safely switching from Wegovy to Mounjaro, covering essential aspects such as eligibility criteria, when to switch and potential side effects. 

Before making the switch, it’s crucial to keep in mind that maintaining a balanced diet and regular physical exercise is just as important as the medication itself in achieving your weight loss goals.

 

What is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is an injectable weight loss prescription medicine for adults with type -2 diabetes or obesity. 

The active ingredient in Mounjaro, Tirzepatide, works by targeting the GIP and GLP-1 receptors in your body. In simpler terms, it helps your body produce more insulin when needed and slows down digestion, keeping you feeling fuller for longer.

 

 

 

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy is an injectable treatment designed to help adults manage their weight when combined with a calorie-controlled diet. It contains Semaglutide, an active ingredient that mimics the effects of GLP-1, supporting effective and sustainable weight loss.

 

Wegovy vs. Mounjaro: Why are You Switching?

You may want to switch for the following reasons:

  • You might be having severe side effects of using Wegovy as a medication for weight loss and you consider switching to feel better.
  • Mounjaro is known to have performed better than Wegovy in weight loss results. For instance, in clinical trials, Mounjaro has helped adults lose up to 22.5% of their weight in 72 weeks while Wegovy has helped adults lose up to 15% of body weight in 68 weeks on their highest doses.
  • The composition of Mounjaro is more convenient for patients as its constituent, Tirzepatide, mimics two hormones at the same time.
  • Wegovy was available in September 2023 in the UK meanwhile Mounjaro was introduced in January 2024. That is why you may want to try the newer weight loss injection to see if you get the desired results or simply as a matter of personal preference.
  • Wegovy has been more popular in the UK than expected, causing supply shortages. This has made it hard for some people to get their escalated dose. That is why many people are now switching from Wegovy to Mounjaro, which has more options for maintenance doses and different dosages available.

 

 

Eligibility Criteria: Can I Switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro?

You can ideally switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro if you’re eligible to use weight loss  medications, however, your clinician will decide after going through the following criteria: 

Who can take Mounjaro:

  • A body mass index (BMI) between 27 and 30 with a weight-related issue like prediabetes, or a BMI of 30 or higher.
  • No existing medical conditions that would make weight loss injections unsuitable, such as an allergy to the active ingredient.
  • Not pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Not on any medication that could interact badly with these injections.
  • Over 18 years old.

 

Check Your Eligibility

 

How to Switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro?

This switching is a step by step process and it should be considered only after consulting with a GP or your healthcare provider.

  1. After taking the last dose of Wegovy, you may stop using Wegovy. Especially if you are switching due to side effects on health. 
  2. You should wait at least 5 weeks before starting Mounjaro.
  3. Start taking Mounjaro with the lowest dose that is, 2.5mg, even if you were using the highest dosage of Wegovy.
  4. You may continue using Mounjaro if you don’t experience severe side effects and are satisfied with the weight loss results.
  5. Stay in frequent contact with your GP after switching and discuss the progress to ensure a smooth transition from one medicine to another.

 

Side Effects of Switching

Our bodies need time to adjust to new medicine and the same goes for changing medications. When switching from Wegovy to Mounjaro, it’s important to give your body time to adapt before jumping to any conclusions about how it’s affecting your weight.

Like all medicines, Mounjaro also has side effects but it does not mean everyone who’s taking it, will experience side effects of Mounjaro.

Common side effects may include:

  • Feeling sick 
  • Constipation 
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhoea 

 

Availability of Mounjaro in the UK

Mounjaro has been licensed for use in the UK by MHRA since January 2024 and is now readily available through online pharmacies, such as The Care Pharmacy .

You can conveniently order your medication at any time with just a single click on their website.

 

What is the Most Affordable Price of Mounjaro in the UK?

The starting price of this injectable pen is £119.99 and The Care Pharmacy guarantees the lowest price and also offers free next-day delivery.

Mounjaro Pen

 

Get Started

 

Final Takeaways 

Always consult a GP or a Pharmacist before making any significant decisions about switching your medication. During the transition period, it’s crucial to closely monitor your weight, blood sugar levels, and overall health. Keeping detailed records of any changes can be incredibly useful when discussing your progress with your healthcare provider.

If you’re considering switching from Wegovy to Mounjaro, you can book an online consultation with our healthcare professionals at The Care Pharmacy Weight Loss Clinic.. Following your consultation, your prescribed weight loss medication will be delivered to your doorstep at no additional cost, eliminating the need for a store visit.

 

FAQS

What is the wash-out period of weight loss injections?

Wash-out period is defined as the waiting period before switching to Mounjaro from Wegovy. It is almost 5-6 weeks long.

This is done to wash out the remnants of the older medicine to start taking doses of the newer one. One can’t take both medications at the same time.

Is it easy to switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro?

After consulting with your healthcare professional, you can easily switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro but you cannot use these injections simultaneously. 

Is Mounjaro stronger than Wegovy?

In terms of effectiveness, clinical studies have shown that Mounjaro results in greater weight loss compared to Wegovy. Some studies suggest that people using Mounjaro could lose a higher percentage of their body weight than those using Wegovy. However, individual responses can vary, and the “strength” of these medications may depend on how well a person responds to either drug.

Will I gain weight If I stop using Mounjaro?

When you stop using Mounjaro, your hormone levels drop, which can make you feel hungrier and might lead to weight gain. Lifestyle choices also affect your weight after stopping Mounjaro. For instance, if you go back to old eating habits or become less active, you might be more likely to gain weight.

Are Wegovy and Mounjaro interchangeable?

No, Wegovy and Mounjaro are not interchangeable. They have different compositions and serve different purposes so you cannot inject both simultaneously. However, if you wish to permanently switch from one weight loss injection to the other, it is possible to do so with medical guidance.

How to store Mounjaro?

Mounjaro requires refrigeration for storing purposes. Make sure the temperature is between 2-8 degrees celsius. 

It can be kept out for upto 30 days after opening.

While travelling, try storing Mounjaro pens inside a cool bag with an Ice pack. Store them in original packaging to protect them from light.

Do not Freeze the Mounjaro pens. 

If you drop it in a hard and unsanitary place, do not use it.

Does Mounjaro give skin allergies in higher doses?

Mounjaro may cause skin issues like eczema to people who are sensitive to Tirzepatide. However, the experience is subjective for different people. Always consult a GP before starting Mounjaro.

Do you need a healthcare professionals to inject Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is a self injectable pen, that means you do not need any assistance.

To get a better idea of starting the dose, this video gives a clearer view of it.

Is Mounjaro easy to use?

Yes, Mounjaro pen is very easy to use and once you start using it, your body will automatically adapt to it. 

How to inject Mounjaro?

Before starting Mounjaro, your healthcare provider should show you how to use the pen or you can read our Mounjaro usage step-by-step guide. 

  • After reading the instructions, make sure you have chosen the area in your body to inject the medicine.
  • it is injected into the upper arms, thighs or stomach.
  • Your pen comes with 100  needles, so that means you have to use a new needle for every weekly injection.
  • Pull the pen cap off and wipe the red seal with an alcohol swab.
  • Then attach attach a new pen needle. (do not touch the needle.)
  • Then slowly turn the dose knobs, until you hear two clicks.
  • Then push the knob until “0” icon appears, for five seconds.
  • After this, slowly turn the dose until you see “1”. This activates the dose.
  • After pulling off the base cap, place the base flat on your skin and unlock.
  • Then press and hold the button for 10 seconds.
  • Listen for the first click, it means the injection has started.
  • The second click means that the injection is completed.

Remember to always discuss it with a healthcare professional before injecting.

What happens if I miss the dose of Mounjaro?

If you forget to take a dose of Mounjaro, you should take it as soon as you remember, but within 4 days (96 hours) of the missed dose. 

If more than 4 days have gone by, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Avoid taking two doses of Mounjaro within a 3-day period.

Written by:
  • Uzma Aslam
Medically reviewed by:
  • Mohammed Ismail Lakhi
Verified by:
  • Muhammed Luqman Asghar

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