Trulicity vs Mounjaro

If you or any of your family members have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, you may have heard about Trulicity and Mounjaro. Trulicity and Mounjaro provide blood sugar control for patients with type 2 diabetes, a long-term, progressive disease characterized by inadequate insulin production or action, which results in elevated blood glucose levels.

These are trendy FDA-approved medications that have been in the news recently for their ability to address and treat diabetes and chronic obesity. The drugs improve glycemic control in diabetes type 2 patients and contribute to weight loss up to 20%. Beyond the headlines, how do they compare, even though the same company makes them? Which stands out and might have benefits for you? What are the differences? And what’s the verdict on the frequently debated question: Trulicity vs. Mounjaro?

What Is Trulicity?

Trulicity is a brand-name prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults by lowering blood sugar and A1C levels. The A1C test is a standard blood test that measures average blood sugar levels over the past few months. Trulicity is also known by the generic name dulaglutide. 

It belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. GLP-1 is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin production and reducing glucagon release. People may take it on its own or coupled with other medications for diabetes. However, Trulicity does not replace insulin and should not be prescribed to individuals with type 1 diabetes.

What Is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is an injectable brand-name prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It is used along with diet and exercise to improve blood glucose. Like Trulicity, it is a GLP-1 receptor agonist but also works on another receptor, GIP (Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). 

By stimulating both receptors, Mounjaro enhances insulin secretion, improves blood sugar control, and promotes weight loss. Mounjaro does not replace insulin and should not be prescribed to individuals with type 1 diabetes.

Mounjaro is also known by the generic name tirzepatide. Another tirzepatide brand name is Zepbound, which helps adults with obesity, excess weight, or weight-related medical problems.

Trulicity Efficacy

Research shows that Trulicity provided sustained A1C reduction when administered weekly at doses of 3 mg and 4.5 mg compared to 1.5 mg in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) inadequately controlled by metformin monotherapy. 

Trulicity for Blood Sugar Control

After you eat, your stomach and digestive system break carbohydrates down into simple sugars, such as glucose, which enter the bloodstream. These GLP-1 medications, like Trulicity, primarily act in the pancreas. There, they enhance the pancreatic Beta cells to secrete insulin. After stimulating insulin, it enters the blood supply and promotes glucose to enter body cells. 

Trulicity helps lower blood sugar levels by:

• Stimulating insulin production

• Slowing the rate at which food leaves the stomach

• Reducing glucagon release

Trulicity for Weight Loss

Doctors may prescribe Trulicity for weight loss in some instances. Its dual action of improving blood sugar control and contributing to weight management makes it a valuable option for those with type 2 diabetes who want to lose weight or improve their metabolic health. Slowing digestion and reducing appetite can lead to modest Trulicity weight loss. It can also reduce the risk of obesity-related complications, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. 

Even though it can cause you to lose weight, Trulicity is not FDA-approved for weight loss. Trulicity alternatives that are FDA-approved for weight loss include Wegovy, Saxenda, and Zepbound. You must talk with your doctor or healthcare staff to understand what treatment would meet your needs and health targets.

Mounjaro Efficacy

One key difference when comparing Mounjaro vs. Trulicity is that Mounjaro works somewhat differently. How does Mounjaro work? Mounjaro is unique because it acts as a dual agonist, meaning two chemical actions occur with two cell receptors. It works on the cells in your body at the GIP and the GLP-1 receptors. It is the first GIP and GLP-1 receptor medication.

On a cellular level, it stimulates both receptors, GIP and GLP-1. Normally, these are activated by natural hormones called incretins that help regulate blood sugar levels. These incretins affect your digestive system and your level of satisfaction from eating food. Mounjaro influences appetite and improves insulin regulation to aid in weight loss. 

Mounjaro for Blood Sugar Control

Research shows that Mounjaro for weight loss and diabetes often leads to significant results. It significantly reduces A1C levels and has a stronger weight loss effect when compared to similar medications. Mounjaro is highly effective at lowering blood sugar levels. It works by:

• Stimulating insulin production

• Slowing the rate at which food leaves the stomach

• Reducing glucagon release

Mounjaro for Weight Loss

Mounjaro has shown impressive results in weight loss. It can lead to significant weight loss, often more than Trulicity. For instance, patients lost 20.9% of their body weight in a clinical trial compared to 3.1% for a placebo over 72 weeks when taking a 15 mg Mounjaro dosage for weight loss.

Trulicity vs Mounjaro: Which Is More Effective?

Comparing Blood Sugar Control

Both Trulicity and Mounjaro are effective at controlling blood sugar levels. However, Mounjaro may still be better, particularly in participants with poorly managed diabetes, as it has shown better results when it comes to lowering HbA1c levels. One study established that it could reduce HbA1c by up to 2.3% in certain patients.

Comparing Weight Loss Results

Mounjaro is generally more effective for weight loss than Trulicity. It can lead to more significant weight loss, particularly for people with obesity. Studies suggest that patients using Mounjaro or tirzepatide may experience more substantial weight loss due to its dual action, enhancing glucose control and weight management.

Trulicity Dosage and Administration

Trulicity is administered once a week via an autoinjector pen. Trulicity dose is typically 0.75 mg or 1.5 mg. The standard starting dose is 0.75 mg, particularly for those new to the medication. After a few weeks, depending on your blood sugar control, your doctor may increase your dose to 1.5 mg. Regular users may increase their Trulicity doses to a maximum of 4.5 mg once per week, especially if additional glycemic control is needed. 

Mounjaro Dosage and Administration

Mounjaro is used once a week via an autoinjector pen. The dosage is gradually increased over several weeks to minimize side effects. It is most commonly used at an initial subcutaneous dosage of 2.5 mg once weekly. Four weeks after starting the treatment, your doctor should increase the dose to 5 mg per week, but if more blood sugar control is needed, your doctor can increase the dose by 2.5 mg.

Common Side Effects of Trulicity

Typical Side Effects

Common side effects of Trulicity include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Stomach pain

• Constipation

Serious Side Effects

Serious side effects of Trulicity are rare but can include:

• Pancreatitis

• Severe allergic reactions

• Thyroid C-cell tumors

Common Side Effects of Mounjaro

Typical Side Effects

Common side effects of Mounjaro include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Stomach pain

• Constipation

Serious Side Effects

Serious Mounjaro side effects are rare. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as: 

• Pancreatitis

• Thyroid C-cell tumors

• Bowel obstruction

• Gallstones

• Allergic reactions

• Kidney disease

Which One Has Fewer Side Effects?

The common side effects of Trulicity and Mounjaro are similar. Many of these are minor to moderate in intensity and are strongly associated with dose escalation. They usually resolve over time as the body adjusts to the new dosage.

Trulicity generally has a more favorable side effect profile regarding gastrointestinal distress. Patients often feel better tolerability, particularly during the initial treatment phase. However, Mounjaro may cause more pronounced gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, especially in the early stages of treatment.

Cost of Trulicity

Patients' prices for Trulicity vary depending on their health insurance coverage and other influencing factors, as seen below. As a rule, clarifying this with your insurance or a pharmacist is better. Trulicity (0.75 mg/0.5 mL) is a subcutaneous solution, and its price ranges from about $1,039 for a supply of 2 mL, depending on the chemist shop visited.

Cost of Mounjaro

The cost of Mounjaro can also vary. Mounjaro is usually more expensive than Trulicity, but it may be covered by insurance for some people with diabetes. Out of pocket, a monthly supply of Mounjaro costs anywhere from $1000 to $1200 before insurance or coupon discounts.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Trulicity and Mounjaro

Both Mounjaro and Trulicity provide solutions for controlling type 2 diabetes symptoms. Their once-a-week dosing schedules offer an alternative to daily medications, which can help patients stick to their treatment regimen. Are there criteria that will help you decide whether to go for one or the other?

Blood Sugar Control

If blood sugar management is your priority, Trulicity and Mounjaro are good options. Still, those with more poorly controlled diabetes may see the slight edge from Mounjaro.

Weight Loss Goals

If weight loss is a significant concern, Mounjaro is generally a better choice. It can lead to more substantial weight loss than Trulicity. 

Cost Considerations

Mounjaro is slightly more expensive. You and the doctor should consider the cost of the medications and any potential out-of-pocket expenses. 

Side Effect Tolerance

Consider your tolerance for side effects, particularly gastrointestinal ones. Mounjaro may cause more gastrointestinal side effects, especially in the early stages of treatment.

Conclusion

The decision to use either of these medications should always be preceded by talking with a doctor. The doctor will evaluate patients' needs and risks in order to find out what is best for them. Generally, Trulicity helps manage diabetes and reduces the risk of heart problems. Mounjaro, on the other hand, shows potential for managing diabetes and treating obesity and weight issues in people with diabetes.