Ozempic vs. Wegovy: What’s the Difference?

If you’re exploring diabetes or weight-loss medications, Ozempic and Wegovy have become two popular options of injectable treatments. Both medications support blood sugar control and weight loss, but they serve slightly different purposes.

Both Ozempic and Wegovy are GLP-1 receptor agonists, meaning they work by mimicking a hormone, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), that helps regulate blood sugar levels and appetite. The key difference is in each company’s marketing. Wegovy’s primary purpose is a weight-loss medication, while Ozempic can improve blood sugar in those living with type 2 diabetes in addition to weight loss, Megan Warnke, RDN, CDCES, tells us.

Modifying the hormone GLP-1 encourages the body to release insulin and signals the brain to feel more full. Of course, this in turn helps with regulating appetite, weight loss and managing blood sugar levels. Let’s dive into the details to explore how Ozempic and Wegovy work, who might benefit from each and the similarities and differences between them.

What Is Ozempic?

Ozempic, the brand name for semaglutide, is primarily designed to help manage type 2 diabetes specifically in folks who also may benefit from weight loss. By slowing down stomach emptying and reducing appetite signaling in the brain, Ozempic helps people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar more effectively.

It’s typically prescribed for adults who haven’t achieved adequate blood sugar control with diet and exercise alone. While taking it can result in weight loss, it’s not FDA-approved solely for weight loss, and its main goal is to support diabetes management. 

What Is Wegovy?

Wegovy is also a semaglutide medication, like Ozempic, but it’s specifically FDA-approved for weight loss rather than for diabetes management. Wegovy works by targeting appetite regulation in the brain, helping users feel fuller for longer, which can lead to a reduction in calorie intake and, ultimately, promote weight loss.

How Are Ozempic and Wegovy Different?

Both Ozempic and Wegovy contain semaglutide. Ozempic is FDA-approved for those with type 2 diabetes. However, Wegovy is an anti-obesity medication that is FDA-approved for those with a BMI of 30 or higher or those with a BMI of 27 or higher with a comorbid condition like sleep apnea or high blood pressure. The dosing is somewhat different, and the pens they come in are different as well, Amy Shults, RDN, CDN, CDCES, explains.

Although Ozempic and Wegovy both contain semaglutide, they differ in key areas like dosage, intended use and FDA approval status. Below is a breakdown of how these medications compare:

• Intended Use: Ozempic is primarily for type 2 diabetes management, while Wegovy is formulated specifically for weight loss in those with obesity or weight-related health issues.
• Dosage: Ozempic is prescribed at lower doses for blood sugar control, while Wegovy is available at a higher dosage, making it more effective for sustained weight loss.
• FDA Approval: Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes management with secondary weight-loss benefits, whereas Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight loss in adults without diabetes.
• Effectiveness for Weight Loss: Wegovy, at its higher dose, might be more effective for weight loss compared to Ozempic, as it’s formulated specifically for this purpose.

How Are Ozempic and Wegovy Similar?

While the medications have their differences, they have some similarities too: 

• Cardioprotective: Both medications seem to have a cardiovascular-protective positive side effect.
• Side Effects: Both medications share similar side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation. In rare cases, they may increase the risk of thyroid tumors or pancreatitis. 

We always recommend working with your health care provider to monitor side effects and make sure your medication meets your personal health needs.

The Bottom Line

Remember, Wegovy and Ozempic contain the same active ingredient, semaglutide. Ozempic is FDA-approved for treatment of type 2 diabetes while Wegovy is approved for obesity management. One of the key differences is the dosages, with Wegovy having slightly higher doses, Daria Zajac, RD, LDN, reminds us. If you’re considering either of these medications, talk to your health care provider to determine which might be the best fit for your individual health needs and goals.