For people with type 2 diabetes, keeping blood sugar levels in check is crucial for preventing complications. Two of the newest medicines available for managing diabetes are Mounjaro and Trulicity. These innovative medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists can lower blood glucose levels in multiple ways. With so many overlapping benefits, you may be wondering how Mounjaro vs Trulicity compare and which one is right for you.
This article will analyze the key differences between these two medications regarding weight loss effects, potential side effects, effectiveness in diabetes management, costs, and more.
We’ll also guide switching from Trulicity to Mounjaro if you and your doctor decide that is the best treatment option. As you consider these new medicines for potentially improving blood sugar control and aiding weight loss, read on to learn the major factors in choosing Mounjaro or Trulicity.
Mounjaro Vs Trulicity for Type 2 Diabetes Patients
First, before going into Mounjaro vs Trulicity for diabetes, it’s helpful to understand how Mounjaro and Trulicity work to lower blood glucose. Both are administered via convenient pre-filled injection pens containing 1 week or 1 month dosage. As GLP-1 receptor agonists, Mounjaro and Trulicity activate the body’s glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors. This kicks off multiple processes that together reduce blood sugar levels.
When GLP-1 receptors are stimulated, the pancreas releases more insulin while also slowing digestion to prevent blood sugar spikes after meals. GLP-1 drugs also suppress appetite by increasing feelings of fullness and satiety.
Additionally, they slow stomach emptying so that food takes longer to digest. By activating these body systems through GLP-1 receptor activation, Mounjaro vs Trulicity can effectively control fluctuating blood glucose.
Mounjaro vs Trulicity for Weight Loss
Weight loss is a major benefit of both Mounjaro and Trulicity. Through their hunger-suppressing effects and slowing of digestion, GLP-1 drugs enable patients to feel fuller faster and stay satisfied with smaller portions. Over weeks and months, this caloric deficit leads to notable weight reduction.
In clinical studies, weight loss with Mounjaro ranged from 9% to 15% body mass compared to 3% with placebo. Trulicity patients lost on average 4.6 pounds compared to placebo.
So while both drugs can stimulate weight loss, data currently shows enhanced loss for Mounjaro vs Trulicity for weight loss. Those struggling with obesity as well as diabetes stand to lose more excess pounds using Mounjaro.
Mounjaro vs Trulicity Side Effects
When weighing the differences between Mounjaro vs Trulicity side effects are an essential consideration. As injectables that alter hormone signals, GLP-1 drugs can produce unwanted reactions like nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, indigestion, and decreased appetite.
In studies comparing the two, rates of gastrointestinal effects were higher for people taking Mounjaro vs Trulicity. But most side effects were mild to moderate, not serious. For some, these may resolve within a couple of months as the body adjusts. To limit unpleasant reactions, adhere to dosage guidelines carefully when first starting Mounjaro or Trulicity. See also: Mounjaro’s side effects in more detail.
Effectiveness for Diabetes
Numerous studies confirm that both Mounjaro and Trulicity successfully lower A1c hemoglobin levels in patients with type 2 diabetes, demonstrating a robust glucose-lowering effect.
However recent clinical trials showed that Mounjaro reduced A1c up to 2% more than Trulicity. These findings suggest that Mounjaro vs Trulicity may have the advantage for diabetes control and minimizing risks of diabetic complications.
Researchers also discovered that over half of the participants achieved an A1c below 5.7% on the maximum dose of Mounjaro, making blood sugar numbers comparable to people without diabetes. Better efficacy data gives Mounjaro the edge.
Cost and Coverage
Affording these newer GLP-1 drugs is top of mind for most patients. Retail cash pricing shows a one-month supply of Mounjaro costs about $974, while Trulicity runs around $1,039 without insurance.
But with both being brand-name biologic medications, health insurance plan formularies have a major influence on out-of-pocket expenses. Coverage varies widely among policies when comparing Mounjaro vs Trulicity costs. For optimal savings, choose the medication deemed “preferred” on your plan’s formulary drug list.
Some insurers are now covering Mounjaro under weight loss benefits also. Checking your plan details helps navigate price differences. The manufacturers of both drugs offer savings programs you can use as well.
Mounjaro vs Trulicity: How to Switch?
So, how to switch from Trulicity to Mounjaro?For those currently using Trulicity, changing to Mounjaro requires coordination with your medical team. Stopping GLP-1 receptor agonists abruptly is not recommended since that can disrupt diabetes management.
First, consult your doctor about the pros and cons of switching based on your health status and needs. If Mounjaro seems favorable, establish a transition schedule. Often the starting dose of Mounjaro is decreased initially. Your clinician should provide clear guidance on safely transitioning injections.
Expect to monitor blood glucose levels closely during the change too. With some care in collaborating with practitioners, switching from Trulicity to potentially better-performing Mounjaro can go smoothly.
Final Result
In summary, when comparing Mounjaro vs Trulicity, both injectable GLP-1 drugs offer effective ways to lower blood sugar and assist with weight loss using similar mechanisms. However key differences exist between the two options for managing type 2 diabetes. Research shows enhanced A1c reduction and increased weight loss for patients taking Mounjaro.
However, some data also indicates more frequent GI side effects like nausea or diarrhea. While Trulicity performs well, results suggest that Mounjaro may allow patients to achieve tighter glycemic control and lose more excess body weight. Factors like your insurance coverage and existing plan currently taking Trulicity also play a role in selecting between the two medications.
As additional head-to-head comparison studies publish findings, the choice between Mounjaro vs Trulicity should become clearer for clinicians and diabetes patients alike. However current evidence demonstrates that Mounjaro can enable more people to reach optimal A1c targets below 5.7%.
For many living with obesity and diabetes, Mounjaro also stimulates greater weight loss than Trulicity matched against placebo. Of course, individual response varies, so having ongoing conversations with your care team is key as newer GLP-1 drugs arrive on the market. When weighing a switch between these two injection treatments, use a gradual transition timeline for safety.
In determining what’s best between Mounjaro vs Trulicity for you, assess your target A1c range, weight goals, medication cost factors, and risk tolerance for side effects. If needed one can also analyse Mounjaro vs Trulicity vs Ozempic before deciding to invest in one. Tracking individual blood sugar and weight changes gives helpful clues too.
By putting all these considerations together, finding the ideal GLP-1 receptor agonist becomes more clear. Ready to stop taking Trulicity in favor of Mounjaro’s advantages? Consult your doctor about making the switch smoothly today.
