Ozempic
semaglutide · Novo Nordisk
Form
Injectable pen (subcutaneous)
Frequency
Once weekly
Available Doses
FDA Approval Date
December 5, 2017
Mechanism
GLP-1 receptor agonist (peptide)
Manufacturer
Novo Nordisk
Cost
Self-Pay
~$936/mo
With Savings Card
$25/mo for commercially insured patients
One price for all doses. Widely covered by insurance for type 2 diabetes.
Side Effects
| Side Effect | Rate | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea | ~20% | SUSTAIN trials |
| Diarrhea | ~8.5% | SUSTAIN trials |
| Vomiting | ~5% | SUSTAIN trials |
| Constipation | ~5% | SUSTAIN trials |
| Abdominal pain | ~6% | SUSTAIN trials |
| Injection site reactions | ~0.2% | SUSTAIN trials |
Source: SUSTAIN Clinical Trial Program
Weight Loss Results
SUSTAIN 1-10 / STEP (off-label)
~15%
68 weeks · Multiple analyses
At 2.0mg dose. FDA-approved for diabetes, not weight loss. Weight loss data from STEP-equivalent analyses.
How It Works
Ozempic mimics the natural hormone GLP-1. When injected weekly, it activates GLP-1 receptors throughout the body: in the pancreas (improving insulin release), in the brain (reducing appetite), and in the gut (slowing gastric emptying). The result is improved blood sugar control and, as a secondary benefit, significant weight loss.
Mechanism: Ozempic is a peptide-based GLP-1 receptor agonist with 94% homology to human GLP-1. It has been modified to resist enzymatic degradation, giving it a half-life of about 7 days (enabling weekly dosing). It works by activating GLP-1 receptors to improve insulin secretion, reduce glucagon, slow gastric emptying, and reduce appetite.
Who It's For
Indication
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (widely used off-label for weight loss)
Adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus as an adjunct to diet and exercise. Widely prescribed off-label for weight management. Ozempic's max dose (2mg) is lower than Wegovy's (2.4mg), so patients seeking maximum weight loss may prefer Wegovy.
Food & Water Restrictions
✅ No Restrictions
This medication can be taken at any time of day, with or without food and water.
Switching Guides
Comparisons
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical trial data referenced comes from published studies and FDA prescribing information. Side effect rates are from specific clinical trials and may not reflect real-world experience. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or switching any medication.