If you have been researching weight loss injections, you have likely come across three names that keep appearing: Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. With so much coverage in the media and online, it can be difficult to know what each one actually does, how they differ, and which might be right for you.
This guide breaks down the key differences between these three medications, explains the UK licensing position on each, and outlines how Bannerman’s Pharmacy can support your weight management journey with safe, clinically supervised options.
What Are These Medications?
All three medications belong to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. They work by mimicking hormones that the body naturally produces after eating, signalling to the brain that you are full, slowing the emptying of the stomach, and helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
Despite their similarities, there are important differences between them, particularly regarding UK licensing, how they work, and their effectiveness for weight loss.
Ozempic (Semaglutide)
What Is It?
Ozempic contains the active ingredient semaglutide and is manufactured by Novo Nordisk. It is administered as a once-weekly injection under the skin.
Is It Licensed for Weight Loss in the UK?
No. In the UK, Ozempic is only licensed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. While it can result in weight loss as a side effect, it is not approved by the MHRA as a weight management treatment. Some private clinics may prescribe it off-label for weight loss in specific circumstances, but this requires careful clinical oversight.
How Does It Work?
Ozempic acts as a GLP-1 receptor agonist, mimicking the GLP-1 hormone to stimulate insulin release, reduce appetite, and slow stomach emptying. This can lead to a reduction in calorie intake over time.
Weight Loss Results
Studies suggest Ozempic can lead to around 10 to 15 per cent body weight loss. However, because it is not licensed for this purpose in the UK, Bannerman’s Pharmacy does not offer Ozempic as a weight management treatment.
Side Effects
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation. These typically ease as the body adjusts to the medication. Rarer but more serious side effects can include pancreatitis and gallbladder issues.
Wegovy (Semaglutide)
What Is It?
Wegovy contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic (semaglutide) but at a higher dose and is specifically formulated for weight management. It is also manufactured by Novo Nordisk and given as a once-weekly injection.
Is It Licensed for Weight Loss in the UK?
Yes. Wegovy is fully licensed by the MHRA in the UK for chronic weight management in adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 and above with at least one weight-related health condition. It is available at Bannerman’s Pharmacy as part of a supervised weight management plan.
How Does It Work?
Like Ozempic, Wegovy works as a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It promotes insulin release, reduces appetite, and delays stomach emptying, which helps patients feel fuller for longer and reduces overall calorie intake.
Weight Loss Results
Clinical trials have shown impressive results. A 72-week study found patients lost an average of 21 per cent of their body weight on a 7.2mg maintenance dose. Wegovy also carries proven cardiovascular benefits and has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in eligible patients.
Side Effects
Side effects are similar to Ozempic: nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, and constipation are most common, particularly in the early stages of treatment. These usually reduce over time.
Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
What Is It?
Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, a newer medication developed by Eli Lilly. It is administered as a once-weekly injection and is available at Bannerman’s Pharmacy as part of a personalised weight management programme.
Is It Licensed for Weight Loss in the UK?
Yes. Mounjaro is approved by the MHRA for weight management in the UK and is considered one of the most effective weight loss medications currently available. It is often the recommended first choice for patients who are eligible.
How Does It Work?
Mounjaro is a dual agonist, meaning it targets two hormones rather than one. It mimics both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), which work together to delay stomach emptying, reduce appetite, improve insulin response, and promote a sustained feeling of fullness.
This dual action is why Mounjaro tends to produce greater weight loss results than semaglutide-based treatments.
Weight Loss Results
Clinical data is compelling. In the SURMOUNT-5 head-to-head study, patients taking tirzepatide lost an average of 20.2 per cent of their body weight compared to 13.7 per cent with semaglutide.
Real-world studies have shown patients taking Mounjaro were up to three times more likely to lose 15 per cent or more of their body weight compared to those on Ozempic or Wegovy.
Side Effects
Side effects are similar to those of Wegovy, such as nausea, diarrhoea, and constipation, and are most commonly reported. But some studies suggest they may be slightly more pronounced in some patients. As with all weight loss injections, side effects typically ease as the body adjusts over the first few weeks.
Side-by-Side Comparison
The table below summarises the key differences between Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro for patients in the UK.
| Ozempic | Wegovy | Mounjaro | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Semaglutide | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide |
| UK Licensed for Weight Loss | No (diabetes only) | Yes | Yes |
| How It Works | GLP-1 agonist | GLP-1 agonist | Dual GLP-1 and GIP agonist |
| Average Weight Loss | 10–15% | Up to 21% | Up to 20–26% |
| Dosing | One weekly injection | One weekly injection | One weekly injection |
| Available at Bannerman’s | No | Yes | Yes |
Who Is Eligible for Weight Loss Injections?
Weight loss injections are not suitable for everyone. In the UK, eligibility is based on BMI and health status. As a general guide:
- BMI of 30 or above (obesity)
- BMI of 27 or above with at least one weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, or obstructive sleep apnoea
Weight loss injections are not licensed for anyone with a BMI under 27. A consultation with one of Bannerman’s prescribing pharmacists will confirm whether you are eligible and which treatment is most appropriate for your individual circumstances.
How Bannerman’s Pharmacy Can Help
At Bannerman’s Pharmacy, we offer a personalised weight management service led by our experienced prescribing pharmacists. We currently provide both Wegovy and Mounjaro as part of a supervised programme that combines medication with lifestyle guidance.
Our approach includes:
- A one-to-one consultation to assess your eligibility and health goals
- BMI calculation and clinical assessment
- A tailored weight management plan designed around your lifestyle
- Regular check-ins and ongoing support throughout your journey
- Honest guidance, including free advice where injections are not clinically appropriate for you
We do not offer Ozempic for weight loss, as it is not licensed for this purpose in the UK. Our focus is on MHRA-approved treatments that are safe, effective, and right for you.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you are considering weight loss injections and would like to find out whether Wegovy or Mounjaro could support your journey, get in touch with the team at Bannerman’s Pharmacy today. Contact your nearest branch to book a consultation.
