Ozempic
semaglutideMade by Novo Nordisk
A weekly injectable approved for type 2 diabetes management, widely known even though it's not FDA-approved specifically for weight loss.
What is it approved for?· FDA-approved use
How it works· Editorial explanation
Semaglutide mimics the GLP-1 hormone, which affects insulin release and blood sugar regulation.
How it's taken· Editorial explanation
Weekly injection, self-administered under the skin
- Injected once a week, on the same day each week
- Given under the skin — commonly in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm
- Comes in a prefilled pen
- Dose is typically increased gradually over time by a prescribing clinician
Common questions· Editorial explanation
Why do people talk about Ozempic for weight loss if it's a diabetes drug?
Some clinicians prescribe it off-label for weight management, and weight change has been widely discussed as an effect of the medication. That's a different situation than an FDA approval for weight management specifically.
Is it the same as Wegovy?
Same active ingredient and manufacturer, different approved use and typical dosing.
Cost overview
List price is typically over $900/month without insurance. Because it's commonly prescribed for diabetes, insurance coverage patterns can differ from weight-management-specific medications. See our cost guide for more.
Read the full cost guide →Insurance overview
Often covered more consistently than weight-management-specific medications when prescribed for type 2 diabetes, though this still varies by plan.
Understand prior authorization →Common side effects· Discuss with a professional
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Vomiting
Important safety information
This is not a complete safety overview. Talk to a healthcare professional about your full medical history, current medications, and any personal or family history that might affect whether this medication is appropriate for you.
Ozempic vs similar medications· Editorial explanation
Ozempic is most often discussed alongside Wegovy, since they share an active ingredient, and alongside Mounjaro and Zepbound as part of the broader GLP-1 conversation.
Questions to discuss with a healthcare professional· Discuss with a professional
- Is this being prescribed for an approved use or off-label?
- What would the dose-increase schedule look like for me?
- What should I do if I miss a dose?
- How does this interact with medications I already take?
- What would make you recommend stopping or switching?
A note on this article: This site is for general information only. It isn't medical advice, and it doesn't replace a conversation with a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
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