Medication comparison
Ozempic vs Wegovy
Ozempic and Wegovy are both GLP-1 receptor agonist medications used for Type 2 diabetes (Ozempic) and Chronic weight management. The table below compares FDA-approved indications, dosing, weight-loss outcomes, side effects, contraindications, and current pricing — all sourced from the manufacturer prescribing information.
This is general drug information, not medical advice. Talk to a licensed clinician before starting, stopping, or switching medication.
Drug A
Ozempic
semaglutide
GLP-1 receptor agonist
Novo Nordisk
See full overviewDrug B
Wegovy
semaglutide
GLP-1 receptor agonist
Novo Nordisk
See full overview| Property | Ozempic | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | semaglutide | semaglutide |
| Drug class | GLP-1 receptor agonist | GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Manufacturer | Novo Nordisk | Novo Nordisk |
| Approved indications | Type 2 diabetes (Ozempic), Chronic weight management (Wegovy) | Chronic weight management |
| Brand names | Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus | Wegovy |
| Typical dosing | Titrate to 2.4 mg (weekly SC injection) | Titrate to 2.4 mg (weekly SC injection) |
| Top side effects | Nausea (44.2%), Diarrhea (31.5%), Vomiting (24.8%) | Nausea (44.2%), Diarrhea (31.5%), Vomiting (24.8%) |
| Contraindications | — | — |
| Boxed warning | Yes | Yes |
| Pregnancy | C — Discontinue at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy due to long half-life. | C — Discontinue at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy. |
| Storage | Refrigerate 36-46°F (2-8°C) before first use. After first use, may be stored at room temperature 59-86°F (15-30°C) for up to 56 days. Protect from light. Do not freeze. | Refrigerate before first use. After first use, room temperature up to 28 days. |
| Avg monthly cost | $997.58 | $1349.02 |
FDA boxed warning
Ozempic: Risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. Contraindicated in patients with personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Wegovy: Risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. Contraindicated in patients with personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Frequently asked
What is the difference between Ozempic and Wegovy?
Ozempic is semaglutide (GLP-1 receptor agonist) and Wegovy is semaglutide (GLP-1 receptor agonist). Both contain the same active ingredient, dosed differently for different FDA-approved indications.
Is Ozempic or Wegovy more effective for weight loss?
Head-to-head trial data favors tirzepatide-based medications (Mounjaro, Zepbound) over semaglutide-based medications (Ozempic, Wegovy) in average percent weight loss. See each drug's clinical-trials section for SURMOUNT and STEP trial data.
Can I switch between Ozempic and Wegovy?
Switching between GLP-1 medications requires re-titration when crossing active ingredients (semaglutide ↔ tirzepatide). Always coordinate with your prescriber before switching.
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