Introduction

Both Ozempic and Wegovy contain the same active ingredient—semaglutide—yet they’re prescribed for different reasons and used at different doses. So which one is actually better for weight loss?

 

In this guide, we’ll compare Ozempic and Wegovy side-by-side in terms of effectiveness, approval status, insurance coverage, dosing, and cost, so you can make the most informed choice possible.

 

Quick Summary: Ozempic vs Wegovy

Feature	Ozempic	Wegovy
Active Ingredient	Semaglutide	Semaglutide
FDA Approved For	Type 2 Diabetes	Obesity / Overweight
Typical Dose	0.5–2.0 mg/week	2.4 mg/week
Weight Loss Use	⚠️ Off-label only	✅ Approved
Insurance Coverage	More likely (if diabetic)	Less likely (still growing)
Average Weight Loss	10–15%	15%+

 

Which Is More Effective for Weight Loss?

✅ Wegovy (2.4 mg/week) is clinically proven to produce more weight loss than Ozempic.

• STEP-1 Trial Results: Patients lost an average of 15% of their body weight
• 1 in 3 lost 20% or more

⚠️ Ozempic (0.5–2.0 mg/week) is effective, but not FDA-approved for weight loss.

• Still widely prescribed off-label
• Produces 10–15% weight loss for many patients, especially on 2.0 mg dose

📚 Source: NEJM Wegovy Study

Verdict: If your goal is maximum weight loss and you qualify, Wegovy is the stronger option.

 

FDA Approval & Insurance Coverage

Category	Ozempic	Wegovy
Approved Use	Type 2 Diabetes	Chronic Weight Management
Off-label Use	Weight loss	N/A (already approved)
Insurance Likelihood	✅ Higher (for diabetes)	🔄 Growing, still limited

💡 If you don’t have diabetes, getting Ozempic approved may be harder, even if it’s cheaper. Some patients start on Ozempic and switch to Wegovy once coverage improves.

 

Dosing Differences

Wegovy uses a higher dose of semaglutide than Ozempic, which is why it tends to produce greater weight loss.

Medication	Starting Dose	Maintenance Dose
Ozempic	0.25 mg/week	1.0–2.0 mg/week
Wegovy	0.25 mg/week	2.4 mg/week

Both medications require a gradual increase in dose (called titration) to reduce side effects.

 

Side Effects Comparison

Side effects are similar for both drugs since they contain the same ingredient.

 

Common Side Effects	Both Medications
Nausea	✅
Diarrhea or constipation	✅
Headache, fatigue	✅
Gallbladder issues	✅ Possible
Thyroid tumor warning	⚠️ Based on animal data

📌 Patients with MEN-2 or a history of thyroid cancer should avoid both.

 

Cost Comparison

Source	Ozempic	Wegovy
U.S. Retail Price	$900–$1,200	$1,300–$1,400
Canadian Pharmacy	~$419	~$500–$600
With Savings Card	As low as $25	$0–$25 (if eligible)

💡 Savings cards typically require commercial insurance. Medicare/Medicaid are not eligible.

 

When to Choose Ozempic vs Wegovy

✅ Choose Ozempic if:

• You have Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
• Your insurance doesn’t cover Wegovy
• You want to start at a lower dose or use it off-label

✅ Choose Wegovy if:

• You meet the criteria for FDA-approved weight loss treatment
• You want the highest available dose of semaglutide
• You’re looking for maximum weight loss outcomes

Final Verdict

Wegovy is better for weight loss if you qualify and can afford it (or get insurance coverage). It’s FDA-approved, stronger, and proven to help patients lose more weight than Ozempic.

 

That said, Ozempic remains a great alternative, especially for patients with diabetes or those looking for off-label weight loss options at a potentially lower cost.

 

✔️ Both are weekly injections
✔️ Both are highly effective
✔️ Coverage, cost, and goals will determine which is right for you

 

📌 To explore cost comparisons and pharmacy access, visit our Ozempic  pricing page vs our 

Wegovy pricing page. and compare.