Mounjaro vs Ozempic: What's the Difference?
Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, which activates GIP and GLP-1 receptors; Ozempic contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist.[1][2] Both US labels include type 2 diabetes indications. Wegovy also contains semaglutide, but its US label includes weight management for eligible people; it is not simply another name for Ozempic.[3] These US sources do not establish UAE approval, availability or eligibility: confirm the current local label with a licensed clinician.
Mounjaro vs Ozempic — key differences.
| Feature | Mounjaro | Ozempic |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide |
| Hormone targets | GLP-1 + GIP | GLP-1 only |
| Injection frequency | Weekly | Weekly |
| Delivery device | Presentation varies by market; confirm the local product | Presentation varies by market; confirm the local product |
| Local indication | Confirm current UAE product labelling | Confirm current UAE product labelling |
SURPASS-2 was an open-label, 40-week trial in adults with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled on metformin. Tirzepatide produced greater average HbA1c and weight reductions than the semaglutide 1 mg trial comparator; it was not a comparison with every semaglutide dose or with an obesity population.[4] SURMOUNT-5 instead studied 751 adults with obesity without type 2 diabetes for 72 weeks, using maximum tolerated trial doses. Average weight change was −20.2% with tirzepatide and −13.7% with semaglutide.[5] These are group averages under trial conditions, not an individual forecast or proof that one drug is best for everyone. Both trials were open-label and funded by Lilly, and do not settle longer-term comparative safety or current UAE indications. Gastrointestinal adverse events were common in both groups.[4][5] The labels contain serious warnings and contraindications, including medullary thyroid carcinoma/MEN 2 restrictions and pancreatitis warnings.[1][2][3] A clinician must weigh diagnosis, pregnancy plans, medical history, other medicines, tolerability, cost and monitoring. This comparison is not a prescription, dose guide or instruction to switch or combine medicines. Sources: [1] Lilly — current US Mounjaro label; [2] Novo Nordisk — current US Ozempic label; [3] Novo Nordisk — current US Wegovy label; [4] NEJM — SURPASS-2 (2021); [5] NEJM — SURMOUNT-5 (2025), abstract