Trulicity vs. Mounjaro: Key differences, costs, and effectiveness

In this article:

• Key differences
• Conditions treated
• Is Mounjaro better than Trulicity?
• Insurance coverage and cost
• Side effects
• Interactions and warnings

In this article

• Key differences
• Conditions treated
• Is Mounjaro better than Trulicity?
• Insurance coverage and cost
• Side effects
• Interactions and warnings

Trulicity and Mounjaro are both weekly subcutaneous injections that treat Type 2 diabetes. Trulicity is part of a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, more commonly referred to as GLP-1 receptor agonists. Mounjaro is known as a GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist. These drugs work by mimicking a naturally produced hormone that, in turn, triggers insulin secretion and improves blood glucose levels. The popular drugs also delay the emptying of the stomach, which has resulted in significant weight loss for some patients, though individual responses vary.

While there are many similarities between Trulicity and Mounjaro, there are also differences, including the formulas, active ingredients, prices, and results. To help you better understand the distinctions between the two and make the best medical decision for yourself, we’ve gone to the medical professionals for expert advice. Below, learn more about these prescription medications for diabetes management. 

Is Mounjaro better than Trulicity? 

“Mounjaro outperforms Trulicity both in terms of diabetic control and weight loss,” said Dr. Jennifer Brown, a board-certified physician in obesity medicine, and an obesity expert for My Obesity Team. “I’ve had several patients switch from Trulicity to Mounjaro and experience much tighter glucose control, fewer side effects, and significantly more weight loss.”

Let’s rewind for a moment to take a closer look at why Mounjaro is a more effective drug than Trulicity. As mentioned previously, Mounjaro is often grouped with GLP-1s, but it’s a bit more complex than that. Mounjaro, or tirzepatide, actually belongs to a drug class of its own. However, many still refer to it as a GLP-1, as it’s the closest group it fits into. 

GLP-1 medications, including Trulicity, only mimic one type of hormone. However, the main difference between these drugs is that Mounjaro has a dual-action mechanism and triggers the response of two gut hormone receptors. Due to this, it can more accurately be classified as a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, or a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist. 

“This makes Mounjaro more effective in blood sugar control and has been shown to have better weight loss benefits,” said Dr. Rani Aravamudhan, a general medicine physician and the Senior Medical Director at Artemis (Nomi Health).

One study published in 2022, which had more than 600 participants with Type 2 diabetes, compared those taking tirzepatide (generic of Mounjaro) to those taking dulaglutide (generic of Trulicity) over the course of 52 weeks. The researchers found tirzepatide was the better option as it was superior to dulaglutide in terms of blood glucose control and reduced body weight. 

More recently, a study with over 13,000 participants found that taking tirzepatide lowered the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events by 8% compared to dulaglutide. This study also highlighted one potential downside of Mounjaro compared to Trulicity. More participants on tirzepatide (13.3%) discontinued treatment due to experiencing adverse events compared to those on dulaglutide (10.2%). 

To determine which medication will be the best option for you, it’s important to speak to your healthcare provider so they can take into account your medical conditions, medical history, and any potential interactions.

Trulicity vs. Mounjaro: Insurance coverage and cost comparison

“When Mounjaro was first available, it was easier to get Trulicity approved by insurance plans because it was already on formularies. Now that Mounjaro has been available for three years, most insurance plans include it on their formularies,” explained Dr. Brown.

It’s also important to note that insurance companies will only cover Mounjaro or Trulicity for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, not for weight management. There is a version of tirzepatide specifically made for weight loss, sold under the brand name Zepbound, which some insurance companies may approve for weight loss if certain requirements are met. Zepbound is also FDA-approved for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. 

“Most commercial health plans and Medicare Part D cover GLP-1 drugs for diabetes,” said Dr. Aravamudhan. “Trulicity is definitely cheaper than Mounjaro overall, but based on insurance plan design, members may pay $0 to $100 per month out of pocket for either.”

If insurance doesn’t cover Mounjaro or Trulicity, you can also pay out-of-pocket. On average, Mounjaro retails for $1,474 per 4, 5mg/0.5 mL pens. However, you could pay as low as $875 by using a Mounjaro coupon from SingleCare. For Trulicity, the average price is $1,409 for 4, 1.5 mg/0.5 mL pens, which could be reduced to as low as $776 with SingleCare’s Trulicity coupon.

Another option to save on these drugs is by looking into manufacturer rebates or savings cards. You can find more information on their websites. Dr. Aravamudhan explained, “Both of them have manufacturer’s rebates available with savings cards that can reduce out-of-pocket costs down to $25 per month.”

Mounjaro vs. Trulicity side effects

As with any drug, there are potential side effects to consider. The side effects of Mounjaro and Trulicity are similar, with most being gastrointestinal (GI) related. 

Common side effects of Mounjaro include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting

Serious side effects of Mounjaro may include: 

• Pancreatitis (inflamed pancreas)
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) 
• Serious allergic reactions 

Common side effects of Trulicity include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea 
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite

Serious side effects of Trulicity may include: 

• Severe stomach problems 
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) 
• Serious allergic reactions 

Those who experience these possible side effects may notice improvement within the first week and a continued decline as they continue taking the drug. It’s important to talk with a healthcare professional for a complete list of side effects. 

Trulicity and Mounjaro drug interactions and warnings

Trulicity and Mounjaro can also interact with other medications, or may not be the best options for people with certain health conditions.

There is limited information on drug interactions with Trulicity, but since the drug delays digestion, it could take oral medications longer to work. You should also let your healthcare provider know about any other diabetes drugs you’re taking, as hypoglycemia could become a concern. Some medicines, such as warfarin, may require additional monitoring. 

Populations who should not take or use caution when taking Trulicity or Mounjaro include those with:

• Severe intestinal or stomach problems
• A history of pancreatitis
• A history or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
• Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) 

Trulicity and Mounjaro should not be taken by anyone who is allergic to any of their ingredients. They are also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Both drugs have a boxed warning, the most serious warning required by the FDA. These drugs have caused thyroid tumors in animal studies—but it’s not known whether this risk applies to humans. If you have a history or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), or if you have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), you should not use Trulicity or Mounjaro.

While Mounjaro’s benefits are typically better than Trulicity’s in terms of improved blood sugar and weight loss, it isn’t always that simple. To make an informed decision on treatment options that will work best for you, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider, who can tailor treatment to your overall health and individual needs.