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Ozempic vs Wegovy: What's the Difference?
Both Ozempic and Wegovy contain semaglutide and are made by Novo Nordisk, but they are approved for different purposes and come at different dose levels. Understanding the differences can help you and your provider decide which option may be more appropriate.
| Feature | Ozempic | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| FDA Approval | Type 2 diabetes | Chronic weight management |
| Max Dose | 2mg weekly | 2.4mg weekly |
| Avg Weight Loss | ~10-12 lbs (diabetes trials) | ~15% body weight (STEP 1 trial) |
| Insurance Coverage | Commonly covered for diabetes | Varies — many plans exclude weight loss |
| Self-Pay Price | $199-$349/mo (Novo intro offer) | $199-$349/mo (Novo intro offer) |
| Off-Label Use | Frequently used off-label for weight loss | On-label for weight loss |
| Oral Option | No (injection only) | Yes — Wegovy pill (25mg daily) |
| Cardiovascular Benefit | Not indicated | Proven in SELECT trial |
Choose Ozempic if...
You may prefer Ozempic if you have type 2 diabetes and want weight management as a secondary benefit, or if your insurance covers Ozempic for diabetes but not Wegovy for weight loss.
Choose Wegovy if...
You may prefer Wegovy if your primary goal is weight loss, you want the higher 2.4mg dose, or you want the oral pill option. Wegovy also has proven cardiovascular benefits.
The Verdict
The choice often comes down to insurance coverage and primary treatment goal. Both contain semaglutide, but Wegovy offers a higher max dose and is designed for weight management. Your telehealth provider can help determine which is most appropriate for your situation.