Active molecules
GLP-1 active ingredients
Every FDA-approved GLP-1 medication on the US market in 2026 traces back to one of four active molecules. Same molecule, different brand names, different doses, different indications.
GLP-1 receptor agonist · Novo Nordisk
Semaglutide
Sold as Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus
Semaglutide produces ~15% mean weight loss at 68 weeks (STEP-1) — the 2nd-most-effective GLP-1 agent in 2026, behind tirzepatide (~22%) and ahead of liraglutide (~8%).
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Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist · Eli Lilly
Tirzepatide
Sold as Mounjaro, Zepbound
Tirzepatide produces ~20.9% mean weight loss at 72 weeks (SURMOUNT-1) at the 15 mg dose — the class-leading effect size in 2026. SURPASS-2 head-to-head against semaglutide 1 mg showed tirzepatide superior at all three doses.
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GLP-1 receptor agonist (daily injection) · Novo Nordisk
Liraglutide
Sold as Victoza, Saxenda
Liraglutide produces ~8% mean weight loss at 56 weeks (SCALE) — the lowest of the GLP-1 weight-management agents. Daily injection vs weekly is the main reason patients still choose it: shorter half-life means faster stoppage if side effects emerge.
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Oral non-peptide GLP-1 receptor agonist · Eli Lilly
Orforglipron
Sold as Foundayo
Orforglipron produces ~11.2% mean weight loss at 72 weeks (ATTAIN-1, 36 mg, treatment-regimen estimand; 12.4% efficacy estimand) — substantially better than oral Rybelsus (~5% weight loss when used off-label for weight) and approaches injectable semaglutide. First true daily-tablet alternative to injection.
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