Weight Loss Jabs
As Seen in The Sun
Weight loss jabs have been in the news a lot this year, with many celebrities displaying significantly slimmer figures leading to speculation that it was more than just diet and exercise.
Ozempic is perhaps the best known, but now there are a number of other brands too, such as Mounjaro and Wegovy.
Now weight loss injections are available in the UK privately as well as on the NHS, making the treatment accessible to many more people. It is estimated that 1.5 million Brits are already on weight loss drugs. However, the rising popularity and demand have led to shortages for those who need it for diabetes management, putting pressure on healthcare providers and patients, potentially compromising treatment for those who rely on the medication to control their blood sugar levels, thus raising ethical concerns about equitable access to essential medications.
What’s more, Mounjaro manufacturers have warned that the price is likely to increase and estimates suggest by as much as 170%.
The Sun explored how Mounjaro compares to Wegovy, which could be a cheaper alternative for those seeking private treatment.
Weight loss injection brand comparison
Dr Ross Perry, London GP and founder of Cosmedics Skin Clinics, told The Sun:
“Wegovy has a longer track record for weight loss and might be seen as a safer, more established option, but if Mounjaro becomes significantly more expensive, some patients may opt for Wegovy to save money , even if Mounjaro could deliver slightly greater weight loss.”
He continued:
“Neither is designed as a short-term treatment. They are ongoing therapies for managing weight and, in some cases, blood sugar.
“As long as they remain effective and side effects are manageable, they can be taken for years under medical supervision. Stopping the medication often makes it harder to maintain weight loss and blood sugar control.”
Studies have suggested that Mounjaro may be more effective than Wegovy for weight loss and Dr Perry agreed that it has an added ingredient that could help:
“Mounjaro works on two hormones (GLP-1 and GIP) instead of just one.”
Side effects from weight loss injections have hit the headlines over the past few months with nausea/vomiting and constipation/diarrhoea and stomach issues the most prevalent.
Dr Perry commented:
“The main difference is Mounjaro’s dual action can sometimes make these effects feel stronger, especially in the early stages or when doses are increased.
“Some people also notice greater appetite suppression or changes in taste with Mounjaro.
“But serious side effects , such as gallbladder problems or pancreatitis, are rare but possible with both medications.”
According to clinical trials, it is Wegovy that has a higher rate of nausea. Dr Ross added:
“44% of [Wegovy] users experience it, but only about 12% of Mounjaro users report nausea.”
Which is best for weight loss?
Dr Perry advises:
“Wegovy is widely approved specifically for weight management, so it’s often the first choice for people without diabetes who want a proven option with a longer safety track record in weight loss.
“It may also be preferred for patients who are sensitive to stronger appetite suppression or digestive side effects.
“Mounjaro was first approved for type 2 diabetes, so it’s often prescribed to people who have both obesity and diabetes or prediabetes, as it can offer powerful blood sugar control alongside weight loss.
“It’s newer for obesity treatment, but may be chosen for people who want the potential for greater weight loss or who haven’t achieved enough results with a GLP-1–only drug like Wegovy.”
The choice between the two often depends on the individual patient’s health profile, preferences, and their doctor’s recommendations.
Find out more on The Sun website https://www.thesun.co.uk/health/36305613/mounjaro-compared-to-wegovy-side-effects-weight-loss/
Dr Ross Perry
Dr Ross Perry regularly provides expert comment and advises the media on a range of skincare and health-related issues.
He has particular expertise in skin surgery mole removal and melanoma; having removed thousands of moles in his career, both within the NHS and privately through Cosmedics Skin Clinics. He has provided expert advice on sun damage and sun protection for a variety of UK media and publications.
He also comments on the latest cosmetic and anti-ageing treatment methods.
Cosmedics Skin Clinics
Cosmedics Skin Clinics was established in 2003 and has built up an excellent reputation for cosmetic and medical skin treatments, carried out by GMC Registered Doctors. The company offer a full range of cosmetic treatments, including popular lip enhancement and wrinkle relaxing injections, dermal fillers; plus medical treatments including mole removal, thread vein treatment and excessive sweating injections.
Cosmedics Skin Clinics has a team of skin treatment doctors and surgeons in their 5 skin clinics across London and Bristol led by Dr Ross Perry.
Call 020 7386 0464 or email [email protected] to book an appointment.
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