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GLP-1 comparison

Ozempic vs Wegovy

Here's the thing most people don't realise: Ozempic and Wegovy are the exact same drug — semaglutide. The real differences are what they're approved for, how high the dose goes, and whether your insurance will cover it.

Ozempic

Built for type 2 diabetes

Same molecule, multi-dose pen, caps at 2.0 mg. Often easier to get covered by insurance. Weight loss is an off-label use.

Wegovy

Built for weight management

Same molecule, single-dose pens, goes up to 2.4 mg — the dose used in the STEP 1 weight-loss trial. The on-label choice for weight loss.

Side by side

Active ingredient
OzempicSemaglutide (identical molecule)
WegovySemaglutide (identical molecule)
FDA-approved use
OzempicType 2 diabetes (weight loss is off-label)
WegovyChronic weight management
Maximum / maintenance dose
Ozempic2.0 mg once weekly
Wegovy2.4 mg once weekly
Dose strengths
Ozempic0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 mg
Wegovy0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 1.7, 2.4 mg
Pen type
OzempicMulti-dose dial pen
WegovySingle-dose auto-injector
In-use storage (after first use)
OzempicUp to 56 days (room temp or fridge)
WegovyUse the single-dose pen immediately once uncapped
Eligibility (label)
OzempicAdults with type 2 diabetes
WegovyBMI >= 30, or >= 27 with a weight-related condition

Highlighted cells indicate the clearer choice for weight management. Sourced from FDA prescribing information — see references below.

How much would you lose?

Project your expected weight loss on semaglutide from your own weight and dose, using the real STEP 1 trial averages.

Open the projection calculator

Which one is right for you?

You have type 2 diabetes

Ozempic is the on-label choice and is usually the easier one to get covered. The weight loss that often comes with it is a welcome bonus.

Your goal is weight loss and you have coverage

Wegovy is purpose-built for this — it's approved for weight management and reaches the 2.4 mg dose used in the trials.

Cost or coverage is the deciding factor

Many people end up on whichever their insurance will pay for. Some prescribers use Ozempic off-label for weight loss when Wegovy isn't covered. Confirm coverage before you commit.

This is educational information, not a prescription or medical advice. The right medication — and whether one is appropriate at all — is a decision for you and a licensed clinician.

Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide

The other big decision — Zepbound vs Wegovy.

Compare

Semaglutide Dosage Chart

Full Wegovy & Ozempic titration schedule.

Read

First 30 Days on a GLP-1

Got a prescription? Your step-by-step start.

Start

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions and answers about our calculator

Sources

Tool Information

Last reviewed

July 24, 2026

Reviewed by

Dr. Jaydeep Sanghani

Created by

Meet Akabari

Dr. Jaydeep Sanghani

Dr. Jaydeep Sanghani

MBBS, MD, DNB(Anaesth.), PDCC(CCM), DrNB(CCM)

AIIMS Bhubaneswar · AIIMS Rishikesh

Critical care specialist and anesthesiologist with advanced training from AIIMS. Reviews health calculators at Calqulate to ensure medical accuracy and evidence-based standards.

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