What Is Wegovy? What Is Mounjaro?

Weight loss injections have become widely discussed in the UK. Two names you may have heard are Wegovy and Mounjaro. Both are prescription-only medicines, available through NHS and private services.

This article explains what they are, how they work, who they’re prescribed for, and why professional support is essential.

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy contains semaglutide. It works by acting like the hormone GLP-1, helping to reduce appetite and support weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes.

According to NHS guidance, Wegovy may be prescribed for adults who:

• Have a BMI of 30 or above, or
• Have a BMI of 27 or above with weight-related health problems such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.

It is used alongside a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity.

What is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro contains tirzepatide. It works on two hormone pathways, GLP-1 and GIP, helping to regulate appetite and blood sugar.

According to NHS information, Mounjaro is licensed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in the UK, and is also under consideration for weight management.

Eligibility depends on clinical assessment and regulatory guidance, which may change as new approvals are made.

How they are taken

Both medicines are given as weekly injections using a pre-filled pen. The process is designed to be simple, safe, and manageable at home with professional instruction.

Evidence from research

Large studies have shown meaningful weight loss results when these medicines are combined with lifestyle support:

• Wegovy (semaglutide): The STEP trials found average weight loss of around 15% over 2 years when combined with diet and activity support.
• Mounjaro (tirzepatide): The SURMOUNT trials found even greater reductions, with many participants losing over 20% of their body weight across 72 weeks.

Safety and side effects

The NHS Wegovy page and the NHS Mounjaro page list possible side effects including nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, or stomach pain. Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical advice.

Why professional support matters

Wegovy and Mounjaro are only available on prescription after a healthcare professional has assessed suitability. At Foundry Health, our pharmacist-led programmes provide safe access, step-by-step guidance, and support with safe use and sharps disposal.

👉 Learn more about Foundry’s pharmacist-led weight loss support.

 

This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting or changing any prescribed medicine.