Zepbound and Mounjaro are essentially the same medication - they share the same active ingredient and mechanism of action.
However, they are marketed differently to target different health conditions in the US. Let’s explore this further. Read on for the key differences between Zepbound and Mounjaro, as well as a comparison between the two.
What is Zepbound?
Zepbound is a prescription medication prescribed to treat adults with obesity or excess weight. This weight loss medication is specifically for patients with a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with a weight-related health condition (for example, high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes).
The active ingredient in Zepbound is tirzepatide. Tirzepatide is a dual agonist - it actives two hormone receptors:
- Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)
- Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP)
The medication stimulates these hormones to reduce appetite and food intake. This, in turn, leads to weight loss. Like any weight loss medication, Zepbound should be used in conjunction with lifestyle changes - primarily a healthy diet and exercise.
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is a prescription medication prescribed to treat adults with type 2 diabetes and is used to help people lose weight. Like Zepbound, the active ingredient in Mounjaro is tirzepatide. Here’s how it works:
- Weight Management - Mimics the effects of incretin hormones to reduce appetite and manage weight
- Type 2 Diabetes - Helps the pancreas release more insulin and reduces the amount of sugar the liver produces. It also slows down digestion to improve blood sugar levels.
You take Mounjaro once a week via subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. Always follow the doctor's instructions regarding dosage. Similar to Zepbound, you will start with a low dose and gradually increase as your body adjusts to the medication.
The Key Differences Between Zepbound and Mounjaro
Zepbound and Mounjaro contain the same ingredients and work in the same way. However, the key differences lie in their approval status and availability. Let’s delve into this a little more:
Approval Status
Mounjaro was approved in the UK for weight management and weight loss in November 2024. It is authorised for patients with a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher in those with a weight-related health issue.
Zepbound, however, is a US brand of tirzepatide. It is not approved for use in the UK.
Availability
Zepbound is the US equivalent of Mounjaro. The brand name Zepbound is not licenced for use in the UK. Mounjaro, however, is available in the UK.
Mounjaro is available in the UK via prescription. You will need a prescription from a healthcare professional, such as ourselves at Dr Frank's Weight Loss Clinic. Simply complete an online consultation to discuss whether Mounjaro is a suitable medication for you.
"How Do I Access Mounjaro in the UK?
If you’re considering Mounjaro as an option for weight management or type 2 diabetes treatment, there are several options:
NHS
You can get Mounjaro through the NHS if you meet certain criteria. However, the criteria are quite stringent and waiting lists can be long. There is currently a global shortage of medications that have been used in the treatment pathway where Mounjaro would be used due to the increase of off-label weight loss prescriptions. These supply shortages are expected to last until the end of 2024.
Private
The good news is that you can be prescribed and receive treatment with Mounjaro through registered clinics, including Dr Frank's Weight Loss Clinic. Simply complete a consultation to determine your suitability, and you can then either pick up your prescription from a pharmacy or get it delivered to your home.
Mounjaro can cost around £160 per month. You can access Mounjaro at Dr Frank's for as little as £149.99.
Key Takeaway: A Comparison
Zebpound | Mounjaro | |
---|---|---|
Active Ingredient | Tirzepatide | Tirzepatide |
Approval | Approved for weight management in patients with obesity – or overweight with related health conditions | Primarily approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes on the NHS Primarily approved and prescribed for weight loss, privately |
Availability in the UK | Not licenced in the UK | Is licenced in the UK |
Administration | Weekly injection | Weekly injection |
Starting dose | 2.5 mg | 2.5 mg |
Maximum dose | 15 mg | 15 mg |
Get Started Today with Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic
At Dr Frank's Weight Loss Clinic, we go one step further than just providing you with your doses of Mounjaro and sending you on your way. We provide you with comprehensive ongoing support to ensure you make the most of the medication. We are on hand if you have any questions about side effects or the effectiveness of the medication.
Make the most of monthly well-being calls and our free weight loss support pack. We can give you the best chance of reaching your weight loss goals. We focus on more than just weight loss - we can help you in other areas of your life that can contribute to your well-being too, such as:
- Sleep
- Physical activity
- Stress management
Don't just take our word for it. View our various success stories of patients who have achieved significant weight loss. Some have lost up to five stone in just a few months, highlighting how effective our weight loss programme is.
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