How does Mounjaro compare to other GLP-1 medications?

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) differs from traditional GLP-1 medicines because it targets two hormones (GIP and GLP-1). Across head-to-head and indirect comparisons, tirzepatide typically lowers HbA1c and reduces body weight more than established GLP-1 medicines such as semaglutide, dulaglutide, exenatide and lixisenatide in people with type 2 diabetes. UK evidence reviews note statistically significant HbA1c and weight reductions versus comparators in SURPASS trials, with higher tirzepatide doses producing greater weight loss. For obesity care, NICE’s assessment using indirect comparisons concluded tirzepatide 15 mg was at least as effective as semaglutide 2.4 mg and more effective for weight loss alongside lifestyle support. Side effects are broadly similar to GLP-1 medicines (mainly nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea), with comparative analyses showing no major safety trade-offs, although gastrointestinal symptoms remain common.

Greater average efficacy: Tirzepatide generally achieves larger HbA1c and weight reductions than single-action GLP-1 drugs in type 2 diabetes studies.
Dose–response on weight: Higher tirzepatide doses are associated with greater weight loss, while glycaemic benefits are strong across doses.
Obesity indication: Indirect comparisons suggest tirzepatide 15 mg matches or exceeds semaglutide 2.4 mg for weight loss when combined with lifestyle measures.
Safety profile: Gastrointestinal effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea) are common and broadly comparable to GLP-1s; no major new safety disadvantages have been identified.
Mechanism: Dual GIP+GLP-1 action may explain greater average weight and glucose benefits versus single-pathway GLP-1 medicines.

How does Mounjaro compare to other GLP-1 medications?

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