Is Wegovy the same as Ozempic? In the Wegovy vs Ozempic debate, which one is better? These brand-name semaglutide injections were once used mostly as a diabetes treatment. Today, though, semaglutide is making headlines everywhere.
These drugs have recently become a household name and put GLP-1 meds on the map. Not as a way to treat type 2 diabetes but as a "miracle" weight loss solution. So, which is right for you between Ozempic vs Wegovy, if either?
The truth is, both of these medications come with a slew of side effects. Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation are the most common. That’s why more people are exploring other options, like semaglutide natural alternatives.
Our GLP-1 probiotic helps support appetite control and metabolic health without the need for needles or an upset tummy.* We also have a great GLP-1 Optimizer Bundle that includes our three most powerful solutions for weight management and digestive issues.
Read more about the science and clinical studies on our gut health supplements!
“I’m not thinking about food all day. That’s a big relief.” - Jocelyn
“It helps my body feel more balanced.” - Henry
“I feel lighter in the mornings.” - Kendrick
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy is a once-weekly semaglutide injection. The FDA approved Wegovy in 2021 for weight management in adults with obesity who have at least one weight-related condition. Unlike Ozempic, Wegovy isn’t approved for diabetes.
How Wegovy Works in the Body
Wegovy works by mimicking your body's natural GLP-1 hormone. This is the hormone that regulates your appetite and fullness. The medication sends a signal to your brain to reduce hunger and increase the feeling of fullness.
Wegovy slows down stomach emptying. Food sitting in your stomach for longer prolongs the feeling of being full. Wegovy helps people lose weight by making it easier to eat less without feeling hungry all the time.
Side Effects and Drawbacks of Wegovy
Wegovy comes with side effects that you should know about before starting. The Wegovy vs Ozempic side effects are similar. Digestive issues like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain are the most common.
These symptoms usually improve, but it’s not guaranteed. As many as 10% of patients stop taking the medication because they do not improve. Other side effects include headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and heartburn. Some more serious side effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and increased heart rate.
Beyond side effects, there are practical drawbacks. You have to take a shot once a week. It’s also expensive, and insurance coverage varies. Another consideration is that weight often comes back if you stop taking the medication. That means long-term use is usually necessary.
So, is Ozempic any better?
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a semaglutide prescription for type 2 diabetes. The current GLP-1 king works by mimicking the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone. Ozempic helps regulate blood sugar levels and appetite with a once-weekly injection.
Ozempic is not FDA-approved for weight loss. Doctors consider Ozempic for weight loss an ‘off-label’ use. Although that hasn’t stopped millions of Americans from using the drug to shed the pounds.
How Ozempic Works in the Body
Ozempic works by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone and insulin release. When you take Ozempic, it signals your pancreas to release more insulin when your blood sugar is high.
At the same time, it reduces the amount of glucose your liver produces. Food stays in your stomach longer to prevent spikes in blood sugar and make you feel fuller for longer.
Side Effects and Drawbacks of Ozempic
Nausea is the most common Ozempic side effect. The medication can make you feel overfull and queasy. Eating smaller meals and avoiding greasy or heavy foods might help, but it’s not guaranteed. You can learn more about GLP-1 nausea here.
Vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, and bloating are also common side effects. Severe risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, changes in vision, and increased heart rate.
Taking Ozempic means you’re making a commitment to adjust your daily life. Your doctor must closely monitor you. You’ll need to be mindful of side effects and meal choices. Knowing that weight often returns after stopping can make people feel trapped.
Is Wegovy the Same as Ozempic?
A lot of people wonder, is Wegovy the same as Ozempic? Not exactly. Ozempic and Wegovy are brand names for semaglutide. Doctors prescribe Wegovy at a higher dose to help with long-term weight management. They prescribe Ozempic to lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.
Wegovy vs Ozempic for weight loss is complicated because Ozempic is not technically a weight loss drug. Ozempic is a type 2 diabetes medication. Losing weight is a side effect. But that’s why most people today get on it.
So, where does that leave you in choosing between Ozempic vs Wegovy?
Ozempic vs Wegovy: What’s the Difference Between Ozempic and Wegovy?
Wegovy is marketed for weight loss and the prevention of heart disease. Ozempic treats type 2 diabetes. They aren’t interchangeable. Yet, they’re often looked at interchangeably. Let’s take a closer look at Ozempic vs Wegovy below.
Effectiveness for Weight Loss and Diabetes
There aren’t tons of credible medical studies out there yet comparing the difference between Ozempic and Wegovy for weight loss and diabetes.
Some studies show Wegovy produces greater weight loss results. Most likely because doctors prescribe it at a higher dose. Ozempic may be more effective in managing blood sugar and lowering A1C levels compared to Wegovy.
Side Effects and Patient Experience
The most common semaglutide side effects include gastrointestinal issues. More side effects can include everything from allergic reactions to anxiety and plenty of others in between. There are also concerns over whether or not semaglutide increases the risk of thyroid tumors.
The patient experience compared to Wegovy vs Ozempic looks different for everyone. Wegovy uses a higher dose, so the digestive problems can sometimes be worse. Ozempic may feel a little easier to tolerate.
The Cost Comparison
The Wegovy vs Ozempic price comparison isn’t much of a difference. Both medications are expensive. Ozempic sells for over $900 a month. Wegovy retails for about $1,350.
The price difference between Ozempic and Wegovy isn’t as drastic as the insurance coverage. Health insurance companies are more likely to cover Ozempic for type 2 diabetes. Getting approved for Wegovy is less common, and you have to meet strict criteria.
Lifestyle Fit and Long-Term Commitment
One of the hardest parts about using Ozempic or Wegovy is that they aren’t short-term fixes. Committing to taking medicine for the long haul isn’t realistic for everyone. GLP-1 drugs are not a quick fix. You’ll still have to change your lifestyle, like shift your diet and exercise routine, to lose a significant amount of weight.
These drugs are costly, insurance coverage can be a battle, and there are side effects.
Both medications require a weekly shot. Not everyone is comfortable giving themselves a shot. Fear of jabs and worrying about not doing it right are common. Some patients struggle to stay on track.
All of this is to say, maybe it’s not a matter of choosing between Wegovy vs Ozempic. Perhaps you’d be better off exploring alternative approaches to quieting the food noise and managing your weight.
Why Consider Our GLP-1 Postbiotic Instead?
Many people search for "Ozempic vs Wegovy" to figure out which one their doctor might recommend. What if there was a better option altogether? One that didn’t involve needles, long-term prescriptions, or side effects that disrupt your daily life?
There are alternatives like our vegan, all-natural resM supplement here at res.* If you are constantly battling food noise or are looking for a natural way to support a healthy weight, we’re here to support you.*
The Limitations of Prescription GLP-1 Drugs
Weekly shots, side effects, costs, and long-term dependency come with the territory of prescription GLP-1 drugs. Also, not everyone has access to these prescriptions.
Different people are eligible for Wegovy and Ozempic. Eligibility criteria can vary depending on your health history and treatment goals.
You may be eligible for Wegovy if you’re:
- Overweight
- Have heart disease
- Have at least one weight-related health condition
You may be eligible for Ozempic if you’re
- An adult with Type 2 diabetes
- In need of better blood sugar control
A lot of people stop taking these drugs after about a year or so. People who stop tend to gain weight and lose the other benefits. But we’ve developed something that’s easy to stick with.
Introducing resM, a Gut-First Approach to natural GLP-1 Support
Here at res, we prefer a more natural approach.. Our GLP-1 supporting postbiotic is a gut health solution to help support your metabolic health and weight management naturally.*
We created our formula with science-backed ingredients, including a precision postbiotic (heat-inactivated probiotic), chromium, white mulberry, fenugreek, vitamins D3 & vitamin B12. One capsule a day with food in the morning helps reduce “food noise” weight and supports healthy blood sugar levels already within a normal range.*
resM GLP-1 postbiotic helps you feel more satisfied after meals and manage cravings.* Get up to a 300% increase in natural GLP-1 hormone production for weight support.*
Who This Solution is Perfect For
Nearly 40% of adults in the US are overweight. We made resM for adults looking for natural metabolic support.*
Our solution is for anyone who is:
- Just beginning a healthy weight journey*
- Adding extra support alongside a GLP-1 prescription*
- Looking for help as you transition off medications*
resM offers a new way forward. It gives you an easier, more sustainable option without the needles or overwhelming costs.* Learn more about the science behind the supplement today!
Wrapping Up Our Wegovy vs Ozempic Comparison
The Wegovy vs Ozempic debate comes down to which prescription is better. In reality, both have challenges like strict eligibility rules, high costs, weekly injections, and difficult side effects. They can work, but they’re not always practical for everyday life.
Are you curious to learn about other GLP-1 medications and how they compare to each other? Check out our posts on Byetta vs Ozempic and Bydureon vs Ozempic. But ultimately, you’ll find much of the same insights from this Ozempic vs Wegovy comparison.
If you’re ready to take control without being tied down to prescriptions, resM is the support you’ve been waiting for.* Discover what’s possible with our natural formula today!