Introduction

With so many prescription weight loss medications now available, it’s natural to ask:

“What’s the best weight loss drug in 2025?”

Between Zepbound, Wegovy, Ozempic, Saxenda, Contrave, Qsymia, and Orlistat, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This expert guide compares the top FDA-approved options, looking at weight loss results, side effects, convenience, cost, and who each medication is best suited for.

Top Contenders in 2025

Medication	FDA Approved For	Avg. Weight Loss	Format	Frequency
Zepbound	Obesity	15–22.5%	Injectable	Weekly
Wegovy	Obesity	10–16%	Injectable	Weekly
Ozempic	Type 2 Diabetes (off-label for weight loss)	10–15%	Injectable	Weekly
Saxenda	Obesity	5–8%	Injectable	Daily
Contrave	Obesity	5–9%	Oral pill	Twice daily
Qsymia	Obesity	6–11%	Oral pill	Daily
Orlistat	Obesity	5–7%	Oral pill	With meals

Best for Weight Loss: Zepbound

If you want maximum fat loss, Zepbound is the winner.

• Up to 22.5% body weight loss in trials
• Dual hormone action (GLP-1 + GIP)
• Weekly injection
• Read the full SURMOUNT-1 study

Ideal for: Obesity, insulin resistance, PCOS, or failed past attempts

Best for Simplicity: Wegovy

Wegovy is semaglutide in a weekly dose designed for weight loss (unlike Ozempic, which is for diabetes).

• Well-studied with long-term success
• Weekly dosing
• Read the STEP-1 trial

Ideal for: People seeking a proven GLP-1 with high tolerability

Best Budget-Friendly Pill: Contrave or Qsymia

If injections aren’t for you, Contrave and Qsymia are strong oral alternatives.

• Contrave helps control emotional eating and cravings
• Qsymia blunts hunger and supports satiety
• Both are FDA-approved for obesity
• Often cost under $150/month with coupons

Ideal for: Those without insurance coverage or who prefer pills

Most Accessible OTC Option: Orlistat (Alli)

Orlistat is available over the counter as Alli (or as Xenical by prescription). It reduces fat absorption in your gut.

• Mild weight loss (~5–7%)
• Must be taken with every fat-containing meal
• Can cause digestive side effects

Ideal for: Budget-conscious patients already following a low-fat diet

What About Ozempic?

Ozempic (semaglutide) is technically a Type 2 diabetes drug, but often prescribed off-label for weight loss. It’s very similar to Wegovy but comes in lower doses.

• Covered by more insurance plans
• Ideal stepping stone while awaiting Wegovy/Zepbound approval
• Ozempic Prescribing Info (FDA)

Summary Table

Goal	Best Drug	Why
Maximum Weight Loss	Zepbound	Highest % lost, best for obesity
Weekly Simplicity	Wegovy	Proven semaglutide formula
Avoid Injections	Contrave/Qsymia	Oral, affordable, appetite-focused
Emotional Eating	Contrave	Targets brain’s reward system
Budget Option	Orlistat	OTC, low cost, no Rx required
Covered for Diabetes	Ozempic	Lower cost, off-label for weight loss

Final Thoughts

The best weight loss medication in 2025 depends on your:

Health history
Insurance coverage
Weight loss goals
Willingness to inject vs take pills
Budget

Want help deciding? Visit our Weight Loss Med Finder Tool to compare options, get savings links, and see which drugs you may qualify for through telehealth.