Trulicity (Dulaglutide) and Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) are GLP-1 receptor agonists used to help treat type 2 diabetes.
While they are primarily prescribed to help manage blood sugar levels, in some cases, they may be used off-label for purposes such as weight management.
Even though they have the same mechanism of action and similarities in their benefits, each contains differences that make them unique.
In this article, we’ll compare Trulicity and Mounjaro side-by-side, including their differences, similarities, their effect on weight loss, pricing, and which is the better option.
Similarities Between Trulicity and Mounjaro
- Both are used to treat diabetes type 2 and can be used to help reduce weight.
- They are both GLP-agonists, helping increase insulin production.
- Both are pre-filled injections you take once a week.
- They have similar side effects, which tend to go away after a couple of days or weeks.
- Both options don’t have a generic alternative.
Differences Between Trulicity vs Mounjaro
- The main active ingredient for Trulicity is dulaglutide, while in Mounjaro is tirzepatide.
- While both options target GLP receptors, only Mounjaro has a direct effect on GIP receptors.
- The minimum dose for Mounjaro is 2.5 mg, while for Trulicity is 7.5 mg.
- The maximum recommended dosage for Mounjaro is 15, while for Trulicity is 7.5 mg.
- Trulicity is cheaper than Mounjaro. While the difference might vary between each pharmacy, there is a $100 to $200 price difference.
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Trulicity vs Mounjaro For Weight Loss
While both medications are mainly used for diabetes purposes, they can be an effective tool for weight loss due to their effect on gastric emptying (hence increasing fullness levels).
There is some evidence that Mounjaro may have stronger weight loss effects compared to Trulicity.
According to clinical studies, Mounjaro’s average weight loss was 15% to 20%, meaning participants lost between 25 and 50 pounds in 72 weeks.
On the other hand, while Trulicity’s weight loss results in studies were good, they were not as significant as Mounjaro’s. On average, participants lost around 8-10 lbs in 52 weeks with Trulicity.
So, although both are promising options for weight loss purposes, it seems that Mounjaro might have a greater advantage over Trulicity when it comes to weight loss.
However, keep in mind that both drugs have not been approved as weight loss drugs.
Trulicity vs Mounjaro For Diabetes
Studies report that Mounjaro is slightly more effective than Trulicity at reducing blood glucose.
According to studies, Mounjaro has an average HbA1c reduction of 2% to 2.5%, which can be a significant reduction for those with very high glucose levels.
While Trulicity has good results, they might not be as good as Mounjaro. Evidence suggests that Trulicity can decrease HbA1c levels by 0.9% to 1.5%. Even though this is still a significant amount, it is not as effective as Mounjaro.
Still, make sure you follow your doctor’s orders. If they prescribe one drug over the other, there might be underlying reasons that make that option the best fit for your needs and goals.
Which Is Better: Dulaglutide and Tirzepatide?
Mounjaro appears to be slightly more effective than Trulicity in studies at reducing blood sugar and weight, but keep in mind that it is also a more expensive option.
Your doctor can determine which medication is right for you based on your medical history, glucose level history, and other factors.
Can You Take Trulicity and Mounjaro Together?
No, you cannot take both medications together. Taking Dulaglutide and Tirzepatide together can increase the risk of side effects and hypoglycemia.
Make sure you follow your doctor’s recommendations and take the prescribed medication in the recommended dosage and frequency.
Is Trulicity Cheaper Than Mounjaro?
Trulicity is generally priced lower than Mounjaro, but the actual difference may vary by pharmacy.
On average, Trulicity costs around $800 to $1,000 per month. On the other hand, Mounjaro costs $1,000 to $1,200 per month.
Keep in mind that the prices might vary depending on the pharmacy and if your insurance covers the medication. There are also websites that offer different pricing and coupons to make either option more accessible.
Conclusion
Overall, both Trulicity and Mounjaro are great options to help reduce blood glucose levels. In addition, they can help reduce weight since they help increase fullness levels.
As a result, it leads to a caloric deficit (eating fewer calories than the body needs) and promotes weight loss.
While Mounjaro might have better results regarding blood glucose reduction and weight loss, keep in mind that it is a more expensive option.
On average, a month of Mounjaro costs around $1,000 to $1,200, while Trulicity costs $800 to $1,000 monthly.
Make sure you always follow your doctor’s orders. If they prescribe one option over the other, it might be because it fits your needs better than the other.
Still, if you have any concerns or questions, you can always discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Finally, for both options to function properly, remember that good lifestyle habits are key to help reduce blood sugar levels and promote weight loss.
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