Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro — three injectable weight loss medications now available in Malaysia, each with different mechanisms, dosing, and price points. This guide cuts through the confusion with a direct, evidence-based comparison to help you and your doctor choose the right option.
Key Takeaways
- Ozempic and Wegovy contain the same molecule (semaglutide) at different doses — Wegovy (2.4 mg) is specifically approved for weight loss; Ozempic (up to 1 mg) is approved for diabetes
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide) uses a dual GIP/GLP-1 mechanism and produces the greatest weight loss in clinical trials
- Weight loss results: Ozempic ~10–15% | Wegovy ~15% | Mounjaro ~20–22.5%
- Price range: Ozempic RM800–1,800 | Wegovy RM1,500–2,500 | Mounjaro RM1,088–3,000 per month
- Best value: Depends on your goals, budget, and medical profile — there's no single "best" for everyone
Medical Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only. The choice between these medications should be made with your healthcare provider based on your individual health profile, medical history, and treatment goals.
The Complete Comparison Table
| Feature | Ozempic | Wegovy | Mounjaro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Semaglutide | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide |
| Manufacturer | Novo Nordisk | Novo Nordisk | Eli Lilly |
| Mechanism | GLP-1 agonist | GLP-1 agonist | GLP-1 + GIP dual agonist |
| Primary indication | Type 2 diabetes | Weight management | Type 2 diabetes |
| Doses available | 0.25, 0.5, 1.0 mg | 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 1.7, 2.4 mg | 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15 mg |
| Max dose | 1.0 mg | 2.4 mg | 15 mg |
| Injection frequency | Once weekly | Once weekly | Once weekly |
| Average weight loss | 10–15% | ~15% | ~20–22.5% |
| Key trial | SUSTAIN | STEP | SURMOUNT |
| NPRA approved | Yes (T2DM) | Limited availability | Yes (T2DM, Aug 2025) |
| Price in Malaysia | RM800–1,800/mo | RM1,500–2,500/mo | RM1,088–3,000/mo |
| Off-label for weight loss | Yes (common) | On-label | Yes (common) |
Understanding the Molecules
Ozempic and Wegovy: Same Drug, Different Packaging
This is the single most important thing to understand: Ozempic and Wegovy contain the exact same active ingredient — semaglutide. The differences are:
- Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes and maxes out at 1.0 mg per week
- Wegovy is approved specifically for weight management and goes up to 2.4 mg per week
- The weight loss studies (STEP trials) used the 2.4 mg dose — so the headline "15% weight loss" results are technically Wegovy's, not Ozempic's
- Ozempic at its 1.0 mg max produces somewhat less weight loss (~10–15%) than Wegovy at 2.4 mg
In Malaysia, Wegovy has more limited availability than Ozempic. Many doctors prescribe Ozempic off-label for weight loss because it's more readily accessible, even though the dose ceiling is lower.
Mounjaro: The Dual-Action Difference
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a fundamentally different molecule that activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. This dual mechanism appears to:
- Produce greater appetite suppression than GLP-1 alone
- Improve insulin sensitivity through a complementary pathway
- Enhance fat metabolism via GIP receptor activation
- Deliver superior weight loss results in head-to-head and comparative data
The SURPASS-2 trial directly compared tirzepatide to semaglutide 1 mg (Ozempic dose) and found tirzepatide was superior for both weight loss and HbA1c reduction.
Clinical Trial Results Compared
Semaglutide Trials (STEP Programme)
| Trial | Population | Dose | Duration | Weight Loss |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| STEP 1 | Obesity, no diabetes | 2.4 mg | 68 weeks | 14.9% |
| STEP 2 | Obesity + T2DM | 2.4 mg | 68 weeks | 9.6% |
| STEP 3 | Obesity + lifestyle intervention | 2.4 mg | 68 weeks | 16.0% |
| STEP 5 | Obesity (2-year) | 2.4 mg | 104 weeks | 15.2% |
Tirzepatide Trials (SURMOUNT Programme)
| Trial | Population | Dose | Duration | Weight Loss |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SURMOUNT-1 | Obesity, no diabetes | 15 mg | 72 weeks | 20.9% |
| SURMOUNT-1 | Obesity, no diabetes | 10 mg | 72 weeks | 19.5% |
| SURMOUNT-2 | Obesity + T2DM | 15 mg | 72 weeks | 14.7% |
| SURMOUNT-3 | Obesity + lifestyle | Max tolerated | 72 weeks | 26.6% |
The pattern is clear: Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) consistently outperforms semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) across comparable populations and trial designs, with approximately 5–6 percentage points greater weight loss.
Side Effects Compared
All three medications share a similar gastrointestinal side effect profile, which is expected given they all activate GLP-1 receptors:
| Side Effect | Ozempic | Wegovy | Mounjaro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nausea | ~20% | ~25% | ~25% |
| Diarrhoea | ~10% | ~15% | ~17% |
| Vomiting | ~8% | ~10% | ~10% |
| Constipation | ~10% | ~12% | ~12% |
| Abdominal pain | ~8% | ~8% | ~8% |
| Injection site reactions | Low | Low | Low |
| Discontinuation due to AEs | ~5% | ~7% | ~7% |
Key observations:
- Side effects are generally dose-dependent and worst during titration periods
- Higher doses (Wegovy 2.4 mg, Mounjaro 15 mg) tend to produce more GI side effects than Ozempic's lower max dose
- Most side effects improve after the first few weeks at each dose level
- Mounjaro may cause slightly more diarrhoea than semaglutide products
- All three carry the same serious (but rare) risks: pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, thyroid concerns (MTC contraindication)
Pricing Breakdown in Malaysia
Medication Costs Only
| Medication | Starting Dose Cost/Month | Maintenance Dose Cost/Month |
|---|---|---|
| Ozempic | RM800–1,000 (0.25–0.5 mg) | RM1,200–1,800 (1.0 mg) |
| Wegovy | RM1,500–1,800 (0.25–0.5 mg) | RM2,000–2,500 (2.4 mg) |
| Mounjaro | RM1,088–1,400 (2.5 mg) | RM2,200–3,000 (10–15 mg) |
Total Treatment Cost (First 6 Months Estimate)
| Component | Ozempic | Wegovy | Mounjaro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medication (6 months) | RM6,000–9,600 | RM10,200–14,400 | RM8,400–14,400 |
| Consultations (6 visits) | RM600–1,200 | RM600–1,200 | RM600–1,200 |
| Blood work (baseline + 3mo) | RM350–800 | RM350–800 | RM350–800 |
| Total 6 months | RM6,950–11,600 | RM11,150–16,400 | RM9,350–16,400 |
For the most current pricing data, see our regularly updated Weight Loss Injection Prices Malaysia 2026 guide.
When to Choose Each Medication
Choose Ozempic When:
- Budget is a primary concern — it's the most affordable option
- You have type 2 diabetes and want a medication specifically approved for that indication
- You want to start with a lower-intensity option and see how you respond to GLP-1 therapy
- You need 10–15% weight loss and don't require maximum pharmacological effect
- Wegovy isn't available at your clinic but you want semaglutide
Choose Wegovy When:
- Your primary goal is weight management (not diabetes)
- You want the highest semaglutide dose (2.4 mg) for maximum GLP-1 effect
- You prefer an on-label prescription for weight loss rather than off-label Ozempic
- You can find it at a clinic near you and can afford the premium over Ozempic
- You've been on Ozempic 1 mg and want to step up without switching molecules
Choose Mounjaro When:
- You want maximum weight loss efficacy — Mounjaro has the strongest clinical data
- You've plateaued on semaglutide (Ozempic or Wegovy) and want to try a different mechanism
- You have significant insulin resistance — the dual GIP/GLP-1 mechanism may offer additional metabolic benefits
- You can commit to the higher cost at maintenance doses
- You have type 2 diabetes and want both superior glucose control and weight loss
Can You Switch Between Medications?
Yes, switching is possible and relatively common. Here's what to know:
Ozempic → Wegovy
This is the simplest switch since both are semaglutide. Your doctor may continue from your current Ozempic dose and titrate up to the higher Wegovy doses (1.7 mg, 2.4 mg). No washout period needed.
Ozempic/Wegovy → Mounjaro
Switching from semaglutide to tirzepatide requires starting Mounjaro at the 2.5 mg initiation dose regardless of your semaglutide dose, because the drugs have different receptor profiles and dosing scales. You may notice a temporary dip in appetite suppression during the transition before Mounjaro titrates up to therapeutic doses.
Mounjaro → Ozempic/Wegovy
Less common but sometimes done for cost or tolerability reasons. Expect some weight regain as you move to a less potent medication. Start semaglutide at the standard initiation dose.
Important: Never switch medications without your doctor's guidance. Overlap dosing (taking both simultaneously) is not recommended.
Insurance and Coverage in Malaysia
- For diabetes indication: Ozempic has the best insurance coverage, as it's been available longest. Mounjaro coverage is growing. Check with your corporate insurance provider
- For weight loss: Almost universally not covered by Malaysian insurance. All three medications are out-of-pocket expenses when used for weight management
- Government facilities: May stock Ozempic for diabetic patients at subsidised rates. Mounjaro and Wegovy are primarily available through private channels
- Tax relief: Medical expenses may qualify for Malaysian income tax relief under certain categories — consult your tax advisor
Real-World Considerations
Availability and Supply
In practice, availability often dictates choice as much as clinical preference:
- Ozempic: Most widely available in Malaysia. Occasional supply issues but generally accessible
- Wegovy: Most limited availability. Many clinics don't stock it. You may need to specifically seek out clinics that carry it
- Mounjaro: Growing availability since August 2025 approval, but supply can be inconsistent, especially at higher doses
Cost-Effectiveness
When comparing cost per percentage of weight lost:
- Ozempic: ~RM100–180 per 1% body weight lost (cheapest per unit of effect)
- Wegovy: ~RM130–170 per 1% body weight lost
- Mounjaro: ~RM100–150 per 1% body weight lost (higher absolute cost but greater efficacy makes it competitive)
Mounjaro actually offers comparable or better cost-effectiveness than Ozempic when you factor in the greater weight loss achieved.
Which Clinics Offer Which Medications?
In Malaysia's major cities:
- Most weight management clinics carry Ozempic and increasingly Mounjaro
- Hospital endocrinology departments tend to have the broadest selection
- Aesthetic clinics vary widely — confirm they stock your preferred medication before booking
- Always confirm current stock before your appointment — calling ahead saves a wasted trip
When booking a consultation, ask:
- Do you currently have [medication] in stock?
- What is your current pricing including consultation?
- What blood work do you require?
- How often do you experience supply issues?
Looking Ahead: What About Retatrutide?
The next generation is already on the horizon. Retatrutide, also from Eli Lilly, is a triple agonist (GLP-1 + GIP + glucagon) showing 28.7% body weight loss in Phase 2 trials. It's expected to reach Malaysia around 2028–2029. Read our full retatrutide guide for details.
The Bottom Line
There's no single "best" medication — the right choice depends on your health profile, budget, weight loss goals, and what's available at your local clinic. Here's the simplest decision framework:
- Want the most affordable option? → Ozempic
- Want maximum weight loss? → Mounjaro
- Want the highest semaglutide dose, on-label for weight loss? → Wegovy
- Have type 2 diabetes? → Either Ozempic or Mounjaro (both approved for T2DM)
- Tried semaglutide and plateaued? → Switch to Mounjaro
Work with a qualified physician who can assess your individual situation, monitor your progress, and adjust your treatment plan as needed. The best medication is the one that works for you, that you can afford, and that you can access consistently.