Ozempic vs Wegovy: 4 Differences

Ozempic and Wegovy are two of the most popular drugs used for treating diabetes and promoting weight loss. While both drugs have similar benefits and contain the same active ingredient, they’re not interchangeable. 

So, what are the differences between Ozempic vs Wegovy? Keep reading to learn about the key differences, cost, and side effects of Ozempic and Wegovy, so you can make an informed decision about which one may be right for you.

Wegovy Vs Ozempic Differences

Ozempic and Wegovy both contain a drug known as semaglutide, which is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. GLP-1 agonists mimic natural hormones in your body that are released when you eat food. These hormones trigger the area in your brain responsible for appetite and food intake. As a result, semaglutide helps to suppress appetite, which can help promote weight loss. 

More importantly, semaglutide helps control blood sugar levels by reducing glucagon secretion. This helps people with diabetes manage their blood sugar and reduce their risk of suffering severe symptoms of diabetes. 

While both Ozempic and Wegovy have the same active ingredient and have similar benefits, that’s where their similarities end. Below are 4 differences between Ozempic and Wegovy. 

1. Drug Approval

The first major difference between Ozempic vs Wegovy is what they’re intended/approved for. While both Ozempic and Wegovy are FDA-approved for use in managing type 2 diabetes, Wegovy has an additional indication for weight management. 

Clinical trials have shown that Wegovy can help people lose weight in addition to improving their blood glucose levels. In contrast, Ozempic has not been specifically studied for weight loss but may still result in weight loss as a side effect.

2. Dosage

Another difference between Ozempic and Wegovy are the dosages. Ozempic is available in three dosage strengths: 0.25mg, 0.5mg, and 1mg. The recommended starting dose for Ozempic is 0.25mg once weekly, which can be increased to 0.5mg after four weeks. After an additional four weeks, the dose can be increased to 1 mg once weekly or 2mg max. 

In contrast, Wegovy is available in a much higher dosage strength: 2.4mg. The recommended starting dose for Wegovy is 0.25mg once weekly, which can be increased to 1.7mg after four weeks, and then to 2.4mg after an additional four weeks. If you can’t handle these higher doses, you may not be able to take Wegovy. 

3. Side Effects

Both Ozempic and Wegovy have similar side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. 

In some cases, these side effects may be severe enough to require discontinuation of the medication. Severe side effects are more likely to occur with Wegovy, likely due to the higher dosage. Additionally, Ozempic has been associated with an increased risk of thyroid cancer, although the risk is considered low.

4. Cost

Finally, the cost of Ozempic and Wegovy may be a consideration for some people. Ozempic is generally covered by insurance, with a typical co-pay ranging from $25 to $75 per month. 

Wegovy, on the other hand, may not be covered by insurance since it is an FDA-approved weight loss medication. Without insurance, the cost of Wegovy can be up to $1,000 per month.

Other Things to Consider When Comparing Ozempic Vs Wegovy

If you’re considering taking Ozempic or Wegovy for weight loss, there are a few more things to consider. For one, both Ozempic and Wegovy work best when combined with a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise. Though both medications can aid in weight loss, it’s not a magic pill. 

Secondly, side effects from both drugs are common but rarely severe. However, you can manage side effects by eating smaller, more frequent meals, drinking more water, and avoiding certain foods (like greasy foods and carbonated beverages) that can worsen GI symptoms. 

You can also consider taking a dietary supplement like PeptideVite, which may help reduce symptoms of semaglutide medications.* PeptideVite contains a mix of natural ingredients like vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements scientifically researched for their effectiveness in reducing symptoms like nausea and constipation.* 

Including a daily supplement like PeptidVite into your regimen while taking Ozempic or Wegovy may reduce your risk of experiencing troublesome GI side effects.*

Ozempic Vs Wegovy: Bottom Line

Ozempic and Wegovy have been thrust into the spotlight for their effectiveness in helping people lose weight. While both medications have similar ingredients and benefits, they’re not the same. 

Making the choice between Ozempic vs Wegovy will depend on which medication works best for your needs. Talk to your doctor to determine whether you are a candidate for Ozempic or Wegovy and which one is right for you. 

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.