What Ozempic / Wegovy alternatives are available?

Question

Since there's an Ozempic shortage, is there an alternative to semiglutides for weight loss?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Yes, there are several alternatives to Ozempic (Semaglutide) and Wegovy for weight loss. They belong to different drug classes, with each having a unique mechanism of action. Please note that the effectiveness and side effects can vary between individuals, and the choice of medication should be guided by a healthcare professional.1. GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: Other drugs in the same class as Ozempic and Wegovy. They mimic a hormone in the body that helps control blood sugar.- Liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza)- Exenatide (Byetta, Bydureon)- Dulaglutide (Trulicity)2. SGLT-2 Inhibitors: They work by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing sugar into the blood and excreting it in urine.- Canagliflozin (Invokana)- Dapagliflozin (Farxiga)- Empagliflozin (Jardiance)3. DPP-4 Inhibitors: They work by increasing the amount of insulin produced by the body and decreasing the amount of sugar made by the body.- Sitagliptin (Januvia)- Saxagliptin (Onglyza)- Linagliptin (Tradjenta)4. Metformin: It works by decreasing glucose production in the liver and improving the body's sensitivity to insulin.5. Orlistat (Xenical, Alli): This medication works by inhibiting the absorption of dietary fats.

Brandon Richland, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Yes, Ozempic and Wegovy have been in a shortage and it is difficult to tell when medication can further be provided to patients. There are clinics that offer Semaglutide, which is the generic version of Ozempic/Wegovy, but insurance does not typically cover this. Alternatively, there is a medication can Mounjaro (tirzepatide) which can also be helpful in weight loss, but this too, can also be in shortage. I would recommend scheduling a consult with a provider who specializes in weight loss to help determine your best treatment options.

Howard Pyo, DO · Answer

Both Ozempic and Wegovy are GLP-1 agonists, although there are other options. Among the often used substitutes are Saxenda (liraglutide), Bydureon (exenatide), and Trulicity (dulaglutide). Each functions similarly, albeit dosage, adverse effects, and price may vary. When deciding which drug is right for you, always get advice from your doctor.

Sharon Y. Giese, MD · Answer

There is an endless supply of semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, available at American, accredited, 503B compounding pharmacies. This is a pharmacy category designated by the FDA and they are regularly inspected by the FDA. You should only obtain the medication there from a physician who is a weight loss expert to direct your program and dose adjustments.

Larry Thiesen, MD · Answer

Potentially more readily available Ozempic alternatives would be Saxenda and Wegogovy. Saxenda(liraglutide) is more readily available, but is a daily injection and may not be quite as effective as Ozempic for weight loss. A second alternative is Wegovy, while this medication has the same active peptide as Ozempic which is Semaglutide, it's prepared dosage is different and is more readily available.

What Ozempic / Wegovy alternatives are available?

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Answer: How to get semaglutide when there is a Ozempic or Wegovy shortage

Answer: How to get semaglutide when there is a Ozempic or Wegovy shortage

Answer: Re: What Ozempic / Wegovy alternatives are available?

Answer: Re: What Ozempic / Wegovy alternatives are available?

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What Ozempic / Wegovy alternatives are available?

Answers (10)

Answer: How to get semaglutide when there is a Ozempic or Wegovy shortage

Answer: How to get semaglutide when there is a Ozempic or Wegovy shortage

Answer: Re: What Ozempic / Wegovy alternatives are available?

Answer: Re: What Ozempic / Wegovy alternatives are available?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Semaglutide

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