Trulicity vs Mounjaro for Diabetes: Similarities and Differences

Let’s look at Trulicity vs Mounjaro for people with diabetes. In this article, we’ll explore what the two medications have in common and what their differences are. 

*This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, opinion, treatment or services. The article and the links contained in it provide general information for educational purposes only. The information provided in this article is not a substitute for medical care. Do not use it in place of the advice of your physician or registered dietitian. *

Trulicity vs Mounjaro for diabetes

Both Trulicity and Mounjaro help people with diabetes manage blood sugar levels and may reduce the risk of heart disease related complications. But, there are some key differences in these medications. Talk with your doctor about whether or not Trulicity vs Mounjaro is right for you. 

Trulicity for diabetes

Trulicity is for people with type 2 diabetes. It is FDA approved for adults and children 10 years and older. 

What is in Trulicity?

Trulicity contains a drug called dulaglutide. Dulaglutide belongs to the class of drugs called GLP-1 inhibitors. (Just like Ozempic… and as you’ll read below, Mounjaro as well.) But, unlike Ozempic and Mounjaro, it is a biologic medication. Biologic medications are made from parts of  living organisms.

Does Trulicity have long term side effects?

Longterm or serious complications from Trulicity are not common. Some mild side effects may be present when starting Trulicity though. These include:

• GI upset such as: belly pain, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomitting, and indigestion
• Fatigue
• Injection-site reactions such as: rash, bruising, or pain
• Loss of appetite

If you experience any of these symptoms beyond a few weeks after starting Trulicity, or they start to impair your day to day life and activities, talk to your doctor. 

Trulicity doses per pen

Trulicity is given as an injection one time per week. The pens are single use only, so you’ll use a new pen for each injection.

What is the best time to take Trulicity?

You should take Trulicity at a time that is convenient for you and that you will remember to take it. It is best to take it on the same day and at the same time each week.

Is Trulicity for type 1 diabetes?

Trulicity is not intended for people with type 1 diabetes.

Mounjaro for diabetes

Mounjaro, like Truliciity, is also a GLP-1 agonist that helps manage blood sugar levels for adults with type 2 diabetes. But, it is not a biologic medication. 

How does Mounjaro work?

Mounjaro works by mimicking hormones that your body releases after eating food. These hormones are called GLP-1 and GIP.

It helps control blood sugar levels for people with type 2 diabetes and promotes weight loss for many people because GLP-1 and GIP not only tell your pancreas to release insulin, but they also signal your brain that you are eating and make you feel full quicker.

How long do Mounjaro side effects last?

Some people do report side effects when they initially start Mounjaro, but they should decrease as your body adjusts to the medication. Some of Mounjaro’s side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Upset stomach
• Low blood sugar

Let your doctor know if you are experiencing any of these side effects after starting Mounjaro. 

Mounjaro doses per pen

Like Trulicity, Mounjaro is given as an injection one time per week. The pens are single use only, so you’ll use a new pen for each injection. 

What is the best time of day to take Mounjaro?

You should take Mounjaro at a time that is convenient for you and that you will remember to take it. It is best to take it on the same day and at the same time each week. 

Is Mounjaro for type 1 diabetes?

Mounjaro is not intended for people with type 1 diabetes.

Mounjaro vs Trulicity table

Here’s a summary table of everything we’ve discussed so far on Trulicity vs Mounjaro.

Mounjaro vs Trulicity cost

Generally speaking, the cash cost of Mounjaro is slightly higher than Trulicity, though they are very close. Both medications are around $1000 for a one month supply without insurance coverage, and both medications have a cost saving/coupon program available. Neither medication has a generic form available. They must be prescribed and purchased under their brand names. 

For most people Trulicity vs Mounjaro costs are going to depend on a variety of factors:

• Dosage
• Insurance carrier and coverage
• Whether or not you’re using a manufacturer cost saving program (coupon)

Mounjaro vs Trulicity study

Some research has shown that Mounjaro may be more effective at lowering blood sugar levels and weight loss than Trulicity. But, it’s important to remember that everyone is different and which medication is best for you will depend on a variety of factors. 

Trulicity vs Mounjaro: Which is better?

Ultimately which medication, Trulicity vs Mounjaro, is best for you will depend on your unique situation. It’s important to have a conversation with your doctor about all of the factors that need to be considered:

• Medication effectiveness
• Your goals
• Possible side effects
• Cost and insurance coverage

Sources

1. Medline Plus, Tirzepatide injection. 
2. What is Trulicity?
3. Trulicity, dulaglutide injection. 
4. Efficacy and safety of tirzepatide monotherapy compared with dulaglutide in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes (SURPASS J-mono): a double-blind, multicentre, randomised, phase 3 trial.
5. How do prices of drugs for weight loss in the U.S. compare to peer nations’ prices?