Fueled by celebrity endorsements and social ⁢media trends, weight-loss ‍medications are becoming increasingly ⁣popular. Mounjaro is emerging as an alternative to other⁢ weight-loss injections like Wegovy. But what is the cost?

Mounjaro: The Active Ingredient

mounjaro, manufactured by ‍the U.S.pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly,contains the active ingredient tirzepatide. similar to semaglutide, tirzepatide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It works by signaling fullness in the brain, reducing hunger and cravings, and diminishing the desire for high-fat foods.Mounjaro received approval in the European ‍Union⁤ at the end of 2023.

Mounjaro vs. Wegovy

Research suggests tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Mounjaro, may lead to more significant⁣ weight loss compared to semaglutide (Wegovy). A study indicated that ⁢nearly 82% of participants treated with tirzepatide experienced a weight loss of 5% or more,compared to approximately 67% ⁣with semaglutide. Furthermore, about 42% of the tirzepatide group⁣ achieved a 15%⁤ or greater weight reduction, while only 18% of⁤ the semaglutide group reached the same milestone.

The research team,‍ writing in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine, noted that ⁢the risk of side effects was similar between the two medications. Side effects included gastrointestinal⁤ issues such as nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. The study did not address long-term consequences or the achievement of significant ‍health outcomes like reduced risk of heart attacks.

Availability

Mounjaro has been⁤ approved for weight loss ⁢in Germany as late 2023 and is available with a prescription at pharmacies.

Pricing in Germany (2025)

according to Apotheke⁤ adhoc, the prices for most Mounjaro dosages increased in February 2025, although the manufacturer ⁢reduced the price for the starting dosage. Here’s a breakdown:

• The price of the starting dosage (2.5 mg) has been reduced by ⁤20% to ⁣€206 per monthly pack.
• The 5 mg‍ dosage has increased from approximately €259 to €277 per unit.⁢ A pack of three now costs €808, up from €755.
• The 10 ⁢mg dosage has increased from €322 to €383 per unit. A pack of three has increased from ⁢€943 to €1,126.
• The highest dosage (15 mg) has increased from €345⁣ to €489 per unit.

Prices⁢ for Wegovy and Ozempic are available for comparison.

Insurance Coverage

While Mounjaro can be covered ‍by statutory health insurance for individuals with type 2 diabetes,⁤ coverage differs for weight reduction. In countries like ⁤Switzerland, health insurance companies ⁢cover the costs of obesity drug therapy. However, in Germany, individuals typically pay for these medications themselves. Under‍ current social legislation, these drugs are classified as lifestyle medications, and many ⁢related therapies, including nutritional counseling, are not reimbursed by health insurance companies.

However, there is growing momentum to change this, as obesity⁣ is increasingly‍ recognized as a ⁢hormonal disease.Advocates argue that the law needs to be amended to allow for ‍health insurance coverage.