Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro are three of the most talked-about weight-loss injections, but they are really just brand names for two medicines. Ozempic and Wegovy both contain semaglutide, while Mounjaro contains tirzepatide. This guide explains the differences clearly and how to access a doctor-led programme in South Africa.
Reviewed by Dr Chris van Zyl (registered as M.C. van Zyl, HPCSA MP0287067), who is licensed to both prescribe and dispense medicines under a Section 22C dispensing licence. Treatments are prescription medicines, dispensed only after a required telephone or virtual consultation with our registered doctor.
| Feature | Ozempic | Wegovy | Mounjaro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Semaglutide | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide |
| Mainly licensed for | Type 2 diabetes | Weight loss | Diabetes and weight loss |
| How it works | GLP-1 | GLP-1 | GIP + GLP-1 |
| Typical weight loss | ~10 to 15% | ~15% | ~20 to 22% |
| Dosing | Weekly | Weekly | Weekly |
| Made by | Novo Nordisk | Novo Nordisk | Eli Lilly |
What is the difference between Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro?
Ozempic and Wegovy are the same medicine, semaglutide, just branded and dosed differently: Ozempic is licensed mainly for type 2 diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss. Mounjaro is a different, newer medicine, tirzepatide, which works on two hormone pathways instead of one and tends to produce more weight loss. See our semaglutide vs tirzepatide comparison for the two molecules head to head.
Ozempic vs Wegovy: what is the difference?
Both contain semaglutide. The main difference is licensing and dose: Ozempic was approved first for type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy uses semaglutide specifically for weight management, usually at a higher maximum dose. Because it is the same active ingredient, the weight-loss effect is similar when the dose is matched. Our semaglutide page covers this in detail.
Which gives the most weight loss?
Mounjaro (tirzepatide). Semaglutide, the ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, produced around 15% body-weight loss in the STEP trial, while tirzepatide reached roughly 20 to 22% in SURMOUNT-1 and outperformed semaglutide directly in the SURMOUNT-5 trial. Results vary with dose, diet and consistency.
Are Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro available in South Africa?
Availability of specific brands changes over time, and supply of some brands has been limited. What matters is the medicine inside them. At mobivIVe, our doctor-led programme provides semaglutide and tirzepatide treatments, couriered anywhere in South Africa after a proper medical review.
Which one is right for me?
If you want the greatest weight loss and tolerate it well, a tirzepatide (Mounjaro-type) programme is often strongest. If you prefer a longer-established option, semaglutide (Ozempic or Wegovy type) is highly effective. Your doctor helps you choose based on your health history, goals and budget. Our medical weight-loss guide explains the programme.
How do I start in South Africa?
It starts with a required telephone or virtual consultation with our registered doctor, who assesses your suitability. Once a script is issued, your prefilled pen is couriered anywhere in South Africa with clear dosing instructions.
Comparing prices? See what every weight loss injection costs in South Africa in 2026, including Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro.
Looking for a specific brand? Ozempic in South Africa · Wegovy in South Africa · Mounjaro in South Africa
How to start, in 3 simple steps
- Message us on WhatsApp. Tell our doctor-led team your goal.
- Doctor consultation. You have a telephone or virtual consultation with our registered doctor, who assesses your suitability and issues a script if the treatment is right for you.
- Delivered to your door. Your prefilled pen is couriered anywhere in South Africa, with clear dosing instructions.
Medically reviewed by Dr Chris van Zyl This guide was written and reviewed by mobivIVe’s medical team, led by Dr Chris van Zyl, an HPCSA-registered medical doctor (registered as M.C. van Zyl, HPCSA reg. no. MP0287067) who is licensed to both prescribe and dispense medicines under a Section 22C dispensing licence. Last reviewed August 2026. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease; individual results vary. Consult your healthcare provider.