Wegovy vs Ozempic: Does Wegovy Work Differently Than Ozempic for Weight Loss?

Due to the growing popularity of GLP-1 medications for weight loss, many people wonder about Wegovy vs Ozempic. In fact, many patients not only ask about the differences but also wonder about the effectiveness of Wegovy weight loss treatment as well as Ozempic for weight management.

Others wonder about the Ozempic vs Wegovy cost, as well as options that might provide assistance in reducing costs, such as the Ozempic patient assistance program or the Wegovy patient assistance program.

Unfortunately, confusion exists regarding Wegovy and Ozempic. Both medications are produced by Novo Nordisk, and both contain the same active ingredient, semaglutide.

However, the uses of Ozempic and Wegovy are different, creating confusion for those looking to get a prescription for semaglutide.

This article will discuss the comparison of Wegovy vs Ozempic and provide you with insight when researching your GLP-1 medications for weight loss.

Not only that, but we’ll provide a clear side-by-side comparison of how these two medications differ in purpose, dosing, results, and affordability.

After all, patients should understand the key similarities and differences when comparing Wegovy vs Ozempic. While both medications contain the same active ingredient, they also provide big differences when it comes to dosing, purpose, and affordability.

(Please note, this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to give any recommendations or medical advice. Consult your doctor before making any treatment decisions.)

Wegovy vs Ozempic: What Are Wegovy and Ozempic?

In 2017, Ozempic gained FDA approval for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Originally, the medication was only approved for type 2 diabetes management and cardiovascular risk reduction. At that time, Ozempic for weight management was not considered an FDA-approved treatment option.

Currently, Ozempic is still not approved as a GLP-1 for weight loss.

However, Wegovy is different.

In June of 2021, Wegovy gained FDA approval.

Wegovy is FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or who are overweight and have certain conditions.

When comparing Wegovy vs Ozempic for weight management, patients must understand that while Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight management in certain circumstances (such as requiring one weight-related health condition), Ozempic use is still considered off-label when it comes to weight loss.

Both medications contain semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which helps regulate appetite and blood sugar.

But the question is, how does semaglutide work?

How Do Wegovy and Ozempic Work in the Body?

The active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic, semaglutide, works in several ways to help a patient reduce overall body mass.

Semaglutide activates GLP-1 receptors in the brain’s appetite-regulation centers. This means a patient will:

• Feel full sooner
• Feel full longer
• Have reduced cravings (especially for high-calorie food)
• Lower food noise (thoughts of eating)

Plus, semaglutide helps slow down the speed at which food moves from the stomach to the small intestine. This can cause:

• A prolonged feeling of fullness after meals
• Small portions are considered “enough food.”
• Reducing spikes in hunger

It also improves metabolic function by helping to regulate:

• Insulin release
• Blood sugar control
• Fat storage signals
• Insulin sensitivity
• Glucagon production

So what’s the difference when comparing Wegovy vs Ozempic?

The difference isn’t in the ingredients, since both are based on the same active ingredient, but is found in the dosage, strength, and approach to treatment.

Wegovy vs Ozempic: Key Differences

Found below is a comparison chart of Wegovy vs Ozmepic, providing the key differences between the two medications.

While similar, there are a few key differences to be aware of.

Even though the percentage of body weight loss seems to be about the same between the two medications, FDA approval remains the central difference.

Along with a difference in FDA approval, the maximum dose of Wegovy is higher at 2.4 mg, while the maximum dose of Ozempic levels out at 2.0 mg.

Which Is Better for Weight Loss, Ozempic or Wegovy?

While clinical evidence suggests that both Wegovy and Ozempic offer about the same effectiveness with weight loss, a few key differences may help a person when determining which to choose after comparing Wegovy vs Ozempic.

First, Ozempic is not FDA-approved for weight loss, making it more difficult for those without type 2 diabetes to get prescribed the GLP-1 for weight loss. This means looking for Wegovy weight loss treatment may be easier for patients who require insurance coverage and a doctor’s prescription.

Second, the maintenance dosage of Wegovy is slightly higher than that of Ozempic. Over the long term, some patients may feel that the slightly higher dosing of semaglutide may help them better regulate their weight.

Both medications are typically recommended for once-weekly dosing.

Wegovy vs Ozempic: Safety and Efficacy

Due to semaglutide being the same active ingredient in both Wegovy and Ozempic, the side effects are similar.

Common side effects of semaglutide include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Gas
• Heartburn

Some reports suggest Wegovy may have slightly higher occurrences of side effects due to the higher doses.

Both drugs carry the same warnings for rare, but serious side effects, such as:

• Thyroid C-cell tumors
• Pancreatitis
• Gallbladder problems
• Kidney injury
• Hypoglycemia
• Severe allergic reactions

Is Wegovy Stronger Than Ozempic?

Technically, when comparing Wegovy vs Ozempic strengths, Wegovy’s maintenance dose of 2.4 mg weekly is considered a stronger dose, and therefore, it is believed to deliver a slightly stronger effect.

Both medications require lower dosages to begin with, while doses typically increase every 4 or so weeks if necessary.

Any changes or adjustments in Wegovy dosages or Ozempic dosages must be discussed with your doctor. Do not change or modify your treatments without first consulting with your doctor and receiving proper medical supervision.

Ozempic vs Wegovy Cost: Cost and Insurance Coverage

The cost of Wegovy and Ozempic can vary, depending on whether a patient is paying out-of-pocket, through insurance, or has been accepted into an assistance program.

Full retail of Wegovy can reach as much as $1,349.02, while Ozempic can reach full retail of as much as $982.34.

Due to such high costs, some patients may look to get insurance coverage for their medications.

However, not all insurance programs cover the medications, or a patient may still struggle to pay their deductibles and copays.

Another option is available for those who qualify.

Wegovy Patient Assistance Program and Ozempic Patient Assistance Program.

The Ozempic patient assistance program offers Ozempic to those who qualify at an affordable rate. The manufacturer understands that some people may not be able to afford their medication, and therefore provides a possible alternative to help those needing some form of financial relief.

Likewise, the Wegovy patient assistance program also offers those who qualify an opportunity to receive their Wegovy medication at a reasonable cost.

Those looking to find affordable GLP-1 treatment options, especially if they’re underinsured or uninsured, should check out Prescription Hope.

For $70.00 per month, per medication: Prescription Hope offers access and medication access management services for those looking to apply for the Wegovy and Ozempic patient assistance programs.

Once approved, patients then receive shipments directly from the manufacturer to their door, scheduled refills, renewal services, document updates, and more – all for a simple $70.00 per month, per medication.

Choosing Between Wegovy and Ozempic

Determining what to choose when comparing Wegovy vs Ozempic must be based on conversations with your doctor and their recommendation.

The similarities between the two medications, resulting from the same active ingredient, mean patients should consult with their doctor to determine which one is right for them.

However, patients may consider things like:

• Studies that show efficacy rates
• Side effects
• Cost
• Accessibility
• Long-term treatment options

And remember, never switch or modify your medication treatment plan without first consulting your healthcare provider.

Overall, those comparing Wegovy vs Ozempic will find that the similarities far outweigh the differences. However, approved use, highest doses, and cost are all differences that patients should be aware of when determining which medication is right for them.