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Wegovy vs Ozempic vs Mounjaro in South Africa

The three big weekly weight-loss injections, side by side — two are semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) and one is tirzepatide (Mounjaro). Here's how they compare on cost, dosing and what they're for.

WegovyOzempicMounjaro
Active ingredientsemaglutidesemaglutidetirzepatide
Registered forRegistered specifically for weight management (higher-dose semaglutide)Registered in SA for type 2 diabetes; widely prescribed off-label for weight lossDual-action (GIP/GLP-1) for type 2 diabetes and weight management
Monthly costR1 800–R3 700R1 438–R3 225R2 800–R5 500
Dosingonce weeklyonce weeklyonce weekly
DetailsWegovy →Ozempic →Mounjaro →

The short version: Wegovy and Ozempic share the same molecule (semaglutide) — Wegovy is the higher-dose version registered for weight loss, Ozempic the diabetes version used off-label. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is the newer dual-action option with the strongest average results in trials, and usually the highest price. Which suits you is a clinical decision.

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Frequently asked questions

Wegovy vs Ozempic vs Mounjaro — which is best for weight loss?
Wegovy and Ozempic are both semaglutide (Wegovy is dosed and registered for weight loss); Mounjaro is tirzepatide and has shown the greatest average weight loss in trials. The best choice depends on your health, budget and what your doctor recommends.
Which of the three is cheapest in South Africa?
Indicatively, Ozempic is R1 438–R3 225, Wegovy R1 800–R3 700 and Mounjaro R2 800–R5 500 per month. Lower starting doses cost less; compare current pharmacy prices.
Are all three once a week?
Yes — Wegovy, Ozempic and Mounjaro are all once-weekly injections. (Saxenda, a fourth option, is daily.)

Sources: South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) registration data, the approved package inserts, and public pharmacy price listings. Last reviewed 2026-05-30. No information here is medical advice.