As of 1st September, the cost of Mounjaro (tirzepatide) in the UK has increased significantly. The manufacturer, Eli Lilly, has aligned UK prices with European and US markets, leading to higher costs across all doses.
This price rise comes at a time when many people are seeing real benefits from Mounjaro in their efforts to lose weight and improve overall health. If you’re concerned about the rising cost, there are practical steps you can take.
With Mounjaro prices increasing, some patients are now considering alternatives such as Wegovy (semaglutide). This article outlines your options — from switching to Wegovy, to managing potential side effects, and how to access support through your private GP.
We’ve previously shared in-depth guides on both Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) and Wegovy (Semaglutide) for weight loss.
What’s the difference between Mounjaro and Wegovy?
Mounjaro, for many, is more effective than Wegovy. Weight loss expectations are greater with Mounjaro, on average, in the order of 20% v 14% over 72 weeks. Side effects for many are greater with Wegovy, such as constipation and nausea.
What is the cost of Mounjaro in the UK, and how does it compare to Wegovy?
Starting 1st September 2025, Mounjaro prices in the UK have increased significantly across all dose levels. The new prices via our prescription partner, SignatureRX, are as follows:
-
The 2.5mg/0.6ml 2.4ml pre-filled pens will rise from £146 to £189.94.
-
The 5mg/0.6ml 2.4ml pre-filled pens will rise from £146 to £213.20.
-
The 7.5mg/0.6ml 2.4ml pre-filled pens will rise from £168 to £290.95.
-
The 10mg/0.6ml 2.4ml pre-filled pens will rise from £168 to £327.88.
-
The 12.5mg/0.6ml 2.4ml pre-filled pens will rise from £191 to £354.10.
-
The 15mg/0.6ml 2.4ml pre-filled pens will rise from £191 to £384.20.
For Wegovy, the prices are as follows:
-
The 0.25mg, 0.5mg and 1mg/0.75ml 3ml pre-filled pens are each priced at £103.
-
The 1.7mg/0.75ml 3ml pre-filled pens are priced at £175.
-
The 2.4mg/0.75ml 3ml pre-filled pens are priced at £245.
Please note that prices vary, and other pharmacies may charge differently.
We don’t believe that Wegovy will be changing in price in response to this change in the price of Mounjaro.
Can I switch from Mounjaro to Wegovy?
If you’ve been taking Mounjaro with good effect, you will likely do very well on Wegovy also. Some will have switched from Wegovy to Mounjaro due to side effects, and for that group, the decision is more challenging, especially if those side effects were particularly unpleasant.
Yes, the weight loss profile of Wegovy is slightly less impressive; however, combined with a healthy lifestyle, weight loss is still very achievable.
How can I manage the side effects of Wegovy?
Nausea can be improved with a relatively bland diet, avoiding excessive fats. Smaller meals and avoiding anything spicy may also help. Eating a few hours before bed, rather than lying down on a full stomach, can reduce reflux.
How do I safely switch to Wegovy after taking Mounjaro?
We think that it is best to start at the lowest dose of Wegovy when you switch across. While this will clearly have less effect than the previous dose of Mounjaro, it will nevertheless offer some effect. The idea of starting on a low dose is to minimise the likelihood and impact of any side effects.
There is no need to spend any time off the drugs prior to making the switch, as the drug stays in the body for a week only.
Is Wegovy a safe weight loss medication?
Wegovy has been around longer than Mounjaro, first as a diabetic medicine and then as a weight loss drug. Its side effect profile is well understood, and there is also evidence that, alongside weight loss, other benefits are seen too, including reduced cardiovascular disease and strokes.
What should I know before switching from Mounjaro to Wegovy?
The main point is that you can, should you wish, switch to Wegovy and continue to benefit from this range of drugs. You may experience side effects, but with some lifestyle modification, many of these can be mitigated. You will have to start at the low dose and work upwards once again. The weight loss effect of the drug is less than Mounjaro; however, it is important to remember that the lifestyle changes you make alongside the medication are what will enable you to eventually stop the medication and not regain the weight.
How can I speak to a doctor about Mounjaro or Wegovy?
If you’d like to discuss the recent price change of Mounjaro, get advice on switching to Wegovy, or explore other weight loss options, book a consultation with one of our private GPs today. You can book an appointment online or call us on 0207 245 9333.
About the author
BA (Hons) MB BSMRCGP
“The most fulfilling part of this job is making a real difference to patients with timely diagnoses and supporting them going through a difficult time”.
I enjoy the full variety of General Practice and recognise the benefits in both continuity and time that private care affords. I have a particular interest in disease prevention, chronic disease management and paediatrics.
The key to our success is maintaining and improving our patients’ health, managing chronic disease meticulously and working alongside the best specialists when needed.
