Guide
GLP-1 drugs and their brand names
Most confusion about weight-loss injections comes from brand names. Here is which molecule is behind each one.
Brand names and active ingredients
| Brand | Active ingredient | Maker | Licensed use (UK) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mounjaro | Tirzepatide | Eli Lilly | Type 2 diabetes; weight management |
| Zepbound | Tirzepatide | Eli Lilly | US brand for weight/sleep apnoea — not used in UK |
| Wegovy | Semaglutide | Novo Nordisk | Weight management |
| Ozempic | Semaglutide | Novo Nordisk | Type 2 diabetes |
| Rybelsus | Semaglutide (oral) | Novo Nordisk | Type 2 diabetes |
| Saxenda | Liraglutide | Novo Nordisk | Weight management (daily) |
| Victoza | Liraglutide | Novo Nordisk | Type 2 diabetes |
| Trulicity | Dulaglutide | Eli Lilly | Type 2 diabetes |
| — (no brand) | Retatrutide | Eli Lilly | Not licensed — in trials |
Single, dual and triple agonists
The newer drugs are often described by how many receptors they activate:
- GLP-1 only: semaglutide, liraglutide, dulaglutide.
- Dual (GIP + GLP-1): tirzepatide.
- Triple (GIP + GLP-1 + glucagon): retatrutide — nicknamed “GLP-3”, although there is no hormone called GLP-3.
Counterfeit pens
The MHRA has seized thousands of fake Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro pens sold online and through social media. Licensed pens are only supplied by registered pharmacies against a prescription; you can check a UK online pharmacy on the General Pharmaceutical Council register.
Frequently asked questions
Is tirzepatide the same as Mounjaro?
Yes. Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Mounjaro (and Zepbound in the US).
Is Wegovy the same as Ozempic?
Both contain semaglutide. Wegovy is licensed for weight management at up to 2.4 mg weekly; Ozempic for type 2 diabetes at up to 2 mg.
What is GLP-3?
An informal nickname for retatrutide, a triple agonist. There is no natural hormone called GLP-3.