Wegovy vs Ozempic: Which Is Better For Weight Loss?

Wegovy and Ozempic are two popular GLP-1 medications often used for losing body weight, but they aren’t exactly the same. While both contain semaglutide and are made by Novo Nordisk, they differ in FDA-approved uses, dosing, and potential side effects. If you’re considering one of these medications, it’s important to understand how they compare.

If you’re considering starting a GLP-1 medication, here is what you need to know about Ozempic and Wegovy before you start.

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

When you eat, your body naturally produces incretin hormones known as glucagon-like peptide-1 or GLP-1s. These hormones signal the pancreas to trigger insulin secretion that leads to improved blood sugar levels and promotes satiety, so you feel full after you eat.

GLP-1 medications, also known as GLP-1 receptor agonists or GLP-1 RAs, are a synthetic version of the natural GLP-1 hormones. A GLP-1 receptor agonist is a type of prescription medication used for diabetes and weight management, as it mimics natural GLP-1s and, in fact, is even more potent than natural GLP-1s. There are multiple varieties of GLP-1 RAs. These include semaglutide, liraglutide, and tirzepatide, which are the three most common and well-known. But there are a few others that are possible to find in medications.

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy is a GLP-1 RA medication that is taken via injection once weekly. The FDA approved it in 2021 for weight loss, and it uses the active ingredient semaglutide. Wegovy is manufactured by Novo Nordisk, a Danish pharmaceutical company that also makes other GLP-1 RA medications, both for losing body weight and type 2 diabetes management.

Wegovy is FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults and children with obesity or overweight. It is indicated for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight related health condition, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or type 2 diabetes. Clinical trials have shown that Wegovy can lead to significant weight loss in eligible patients.

The Wegovy dosing schedule is as follows:

• Weeks 1 to 4: 0.25 mg
• Weeks 5 to 8: 0.5 mg
• Weeks 9 to 12: 1 mg
• Weeks 13 to 16: 1.7 mg
• Week 17 onward: 2.4 mg

Both 1.7 mg and 2.4 mg are considered maintenance doses for Wegovy, and the one you’re put on will depend on your body and how it has responded to the drug prior to reaching these doses.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is the most well-known of all the different GLP-1 RA medications on the market. It’s a weekly injection that utilizes semaglutide as its active ingredient, and it was approved by the FDA in 2017 for use in adults with type 2 diabetes. Ozempic is primarily used to control blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. Like Wegovy, Ozempic is also made by Novo Nordisk.

Ozempic’s dosing schedule has users start at 0.25 mg for the first four weeks. After that, the dosage is increased to 0.5 mg for at least four weeks. If additional blood sugar control is needed, your doctor will transition you to a higher dose of 1 mg or 2 mg. The 1 mg and 2 mg doses are considered maintenance doses for Ozempic. This is more common for people with complications like chronic kidney disease. Ozempic can also reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and heart attacks in adults with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. While Ozempic is not FDA-approved for weight loss, it is sometimes prescribed off-label as Ozempic for weight loss.

Similarities Between Wegovy and Ozpemic

• Both medications use the same active ingredient: semaglutide.
• Both medications are made by Novo Nordisk.
• Both medications start with the same introductory dosage and increase from there.
• Both medications are injected into the stomach, thighs, or upper arms.
• Both medications are taken weekly.
• Both medications are available as injectable dosage forms, though they may differ in their specific formulations or injection devices.

Differences Between Wegovy and Ozpemic

• Wegovy is FDA-approved for losing weight, while Ozempic is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes management.
• The target dose for Ozempic is smaller than the target dose for Wegovy.
• Wegovy can be used by children ages 12 or older, while Ozempic is for adults only.
• Ozempic can lower the risk of major kidney disease-related events in people with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD)
• Wegovy can treat metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH)
• Wegovy can reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events

Ozempic vs Wegovy: Side Effects

Side effects are a normal part of most medications, and you’re more likely to encounter side effects early on while taking GLP-1 RAs. Nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain are among the most common side effects reported in clinical trials, especially at higher doses.

Similar Side Effects Between Ozempic and Wegovy

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Stomach and abdominal pain
• Vomiting

Different Side Effects Between Ozempic and Wegovy

Wegovy Side Effects

While Wegovy is effective for weight management, users should be aware of potential side effects they may experience during treatment. The side effects associated with Wegovy tend to be mild to moderate, with most being gastrointestinal or general symptoms that often improve as the body adjusts to the medication. The following are common side effects reported by Wegovy users:

• Headache
• Tiredness
• Dizziness
• Bloating, gas, and belching
• Nausea, diarrhea, and constipation
• Low blood sugar (in people with type 2 diabetes)
• Upset Stomach
• Heartburn
• Stomach flu
• Runny nose
• Sore throat

Ozempic Side Effects

Ozempic carries a different side effect profile that includes some potentially serious complications requiring careful monitoring. These side effects reflect both the medication’s mechanism of action and considerations specific to managing type 2 diabetes. Important Ozempic side effects to be aware of include:

• Injection site reactions
• Hypoglycemia (rare)
• Pancreatitis
• Diabetic retinopathy (vision loss)
• Kidney damage, including kidney failure
• Gallbladder problems
• Thyroid tumors

How to Lessen Side Effects From GLP-1 Medications

While side effects typically aren’t completely avoidable, you may be able to lessen the severity of the side effects you do encounter by making small lifestyle modifications. Here are some changes to consider when you start a GLP-1 medication.

• Stay hydrated. Drinking water can help you avoid nausea and constipation, so it’s good to drink water consistently throughout the day.
• Avoid greasy, spicy, and heavy meals. GLP-1 RAs slow the rate at which food is digested, and greasy foods already take longer to digest. If you’re experiencing a lot of gastrointestinal side effects, try eating bananas, toast, rice, or other easily digestible foods.
• Rotate your injection site. The biggest cause of injection site reactions is using the same area every week. Make sure you rotate your injection site so your body has an opportunity to recover between injections.
• Eat smaller meals. Eating large meals or forcing yourself to finish a meal you aren’t hungry for can harm your digestion and cause nausea. Try cutting your meals in half and make sure you listen to your body when you eat.

Making lifestyle changes like these can also help make your medication more effective, as people tend to get better results when pairing GLP-1 receptor agonists with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise.

Demographics that Should Not Use Wegovy or Ozempic

Not every medication is going to be the right fit for every person, and some medications can exacerbate other health conditions you may have. People and demographics that should generally avoid using medications like Wegovy or Ozempic include

• People with a personal or family history of thyroid cancer, medullary thyroid cancer, or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2)
• People who are pregnant, nursing, or plan to become pregnant within the next two months
• People who are allergic to semaglutide or any of the other ingredients in the medications

Wegovy and Ozempic can also potentially be dangerous for people with a health history of any of these health conditions. When discussing starting medications like Ozempic or Wegovy with your doctor, be sure to mention if you have any of these:

• Problems with your pancreas
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Renal impairment
• Severe stomach problems, such as gastroparesis or problems digesting food

You should also tell your healthcare provider if you are scheduled to have any surgery that uses anesthesia or deep sedation when discussing starting a GLP-1 RA medication.

Are Ozempic and Wegovy Comparable?

Ozempic and Wegovy certainly have a lot of similarities, but are they truly comparable? It’s an interesting question. Both use the active ingredient semaglutide, and both are weekly injections. However, while they both contain semaglutide, they are not the same drug—differences in FDA-approved uses, dosing, and formulations set them apart. Both are considered weight loss drugs, but their indications and effectiveness may differ depending on the medical condition being treated.

Because they have different intents, it can lead to different results for users. Someone looking for type 2 diabetes management may not find their ideal drug in a weight loss medication like Wegovy, and the same is true in reverse. It is essential to consult healthcare providers, as they can determine the most appropriate treatment based on your health needs, approved indications, and safety considerations. Because of this, it’s important to work with your doctor to find the best medication for your lifestyle goals and needs.

Ozempic or Wegovy: Which is Right For You?

Wegovy and Ozempic are both effective tools for weight management, but the right choice depends on your unique health needs, health goals, and medical history. Your health goals should guide your choice between Wegovy and Ozempic, as aligning medication options with your personal objectives is essential for success. Both medications can be part of a medical weight loss program tailored to your needs. Drug treatment decisions should always be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. Understanding the differences in dosing, side effects, and intended use can help you make a more informed decision.

Not sure where to start on your weight loss journey? Connect with a registered dietitian at no cost to you. They can help you navigate your options, build a personalized plan, and provide ongoing support. Sign up today to take the next step toward a healthier you.

Ozempic vs Wegovy FAQ

Does Weight Loss Slow Over Time While Taking GLP-1 Medications?

Yes, many people experience a plateau after the initial weight loss. The body adapts, so slowing results are common. Continued lifestyle efforts, such as nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and dose adjustments, can help manage plateaus.

Can Wegovy or Ozempic Interfere With Other Medications?

Because these drugs slow gastric emptying, they may affect how quickly other oral drugs are absorbed. Also, combining them with certain diabetes medications (like insulin or sulfonylureas) increases the risk of low blood sugar. Your provider should review all your medications before prescribing medication.

Are There Special Risks for Older Adults Using These Medications?

Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects, such as nausea, dehydration, or kidney stress. Their bodies can handle medication differently, and they may have more underlying health issues or other medications that interact. Extra monitoring is often advised.

Do Ozempic and Wegovy Have Off-Label Uses?

There is evidence that suggests GLP-1 RA medications like Ozempic and Wegovy may help improve the symptoms of PCOS and Alzheimer’s in studies conducted on animals and in cells. However, there hasn’t been a lot of research into these uses, so it isn’t recommended to take these medications for those purposes.

What is the Minimum Age Required to Take These Medications?

Ozempic is approved to treat adults aged 18 or older who have type 2 diabetes. However, Wegovy is approved for children as young as 12 if they fit the medical requirements, which are a BMI of at least 27 and having attempted to lose weight through diet and exercise alone without success.