Wegovy vs Ozempic: Which Semaglutide Is Right for You?
If you're considering semaglutide medication for weight loss, you've likely encountered two names: Wegovy and Ozempic. While both medications contain the same active ingredient (semaglutide), they have important differences in formulation, approval status, dosing, and intended use. This comprehensive guide will help you understand these distinctions so you can make an informed decision with your healthcare provider.
Understanding Semaglutide Medications
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics a naturally occurring hormone in your body. It works by:
- Reducing appetite: Signals fullness to your brain, helping you eat less naturally
- Slowing digestion: Keeps you feeling satisfied longer after meals
- Regulating blood sugar: Helps maintain stable glucose levels
- Supporting cardiovascular health: Reduces risk factors in certain patients
Both Wegovy and Ozempic harness these mechanisms, but they're formulated and approved for different primary purposes.
Key Differences Between Wegovy and Ozempic
Primary Approval and Purpose
Wegovy
Primary approval: Chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with weight-related health conditions
Maintenance dose: 2.4mg weekly
Ozempic
Primary approval: Type 2 diabetes management to improve blood sugar control in adults
Maintenance doses: 1mg or 2mg weekly (not 2.4mg)
Dosing Differences
While both medications are administered once weekly via subcutaneous injection, their dosing schedules differ:
- Wegovy: Titrates up to a maximum maintenance dose of 2.4mg per week specifically optimised for weight loss
- Ozempic: Approved for diabetes management with maximum doses of 1mg or 2mg weekly
The higher 2.4mg dose in Wegovy has been shown in clinical trials to produce greater weight loss compared to the 1mg dose commonly prescribed for diabetes.
Clinical Evidence
Wegovy's STEP trials demonstrated average weight loss of 15-17% of body weight over 68 weeks when combined with lifestyle modifications. Participants lost an average of 15kg (33 pounds).
Ozempic's SUSTAIN trials (focused on diabetes management) showed weight loss of 4-6kg on average as a secondary benefit, with the primary focus being improved glycemic control.
Dosing Schedules Compared
| Week | Wegovy Dose | Ozempic Dose |
|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | 0.25mg | 0.25mg |
| 5-8 | 0.5mg | 0.5mg (or stay on 0.25mg) |
| 9-12 | 1mg | 1mg (maintenance option) |
| 13-16 | 1.7mg | 2mg (maintenance option) |
| 17+ | 2.4mg (maintenance) | Continue 1mg or 2mg |
Which One Is Right for Weight Loss?
Choose Wegovy if:
- Your primary goal is weight loss
- You have a BMI ≥30 (obesity) or BMI ≥27 with weight-related conditions
- You want treatment specifically designed and approved for weight management
- You're looking for the highest evidence-backed dose for weight loss (2.4mg)
Ozempic may be appropriate if:
- You have type 2 diabetes and want to improve blood sugar control
- Weight loss is a secondary benefit alongside diabetes management
- Your doctor prescribes it off-label for weight management
Important note: While some healthcare providers prescribe Ozempic off-label for weight loss, Wegovy is the medication specifically approved and formulated for chronic weight management. Using medications for their approved indications typically provides better insurance coverage and more comprehensive clinical support.
Cost and Availability in the UK
NHS Availability
Wegovy: Available on the NHS for eligible patients with a BMI ≥35 (or ≥30 with weight-related conditions). However, availability may be limited due to supply constraints and local commissioning decisions.
Ozempic: Primarily available on the NHS for type 2 diabetes management, not typically for weight loss alone.
Private Treatment Costs
Private prescriptions for both medications typically range from £150-£300 per month, depending on your clinic and dosage. At The London Weight Loss Clinic, we offer:
- Comprehensive medical assessments
- Personalised treatment plans
- Ongoing monitoring and support
- Flexible appointment options
- Competitive pricing with no hidden fees
Making Your Decision
Choosing between Wegovy and Ozempic should be a decision made with your healthcare provider based on:
- Your primary treatment goal: Weight management vs diabetes control
- Your medical history: Including any diagnosis of type 2 diabetes
- BMI and eligibility criteria: For weight loss medications
- Cost and availability: NHS vs private prescriptions
- Your response to treatment: Effectiveness and side effects
Dr. Rabih Wassel
Chief Medical Officer • MBBS, BSc, MSc, MRCS, MRCGP
Dr. Rabih Wassel is a board-certified physician specializing in obesity medicine with over 15 years of experience in weight management and metabolic health.