FDA-ApprovedInjectable pen (subcutaneous)

Ozempic

semaglutide · Novo Nordisk

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Key Facts

Form

Injectable pen (subcutaneous)

Frequency

Once weekly

Available Doses

0.25mg0.5mg1mg2mg

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

68 weeks

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

Ozempic → Foundayo

Read guide

Same Molecule, New Form

Ozempic → Wegovy Pill

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Comparisons

Comparison

Foundayo vs Ozempic

Read comparison

Helpful Articles

Switching

Starting Foundayo: The Practical Checklist Before Your First Dose

Starting Foundayo? Use this practical checklist before your first dose, including what to ask your prescriber, what side effects to expect, cost planning, and when to call for help.

Comparisons

Best Oral GLP-1 for Weight Loss in 2026: Foundayo vs Oral Wegovy vs Rybelsus

Compare the best oral GLP-1 medications for weight loss in 2026, including Foundayo, oral Wegovy, and Rybelsus. Weight loss, side effects, cost, and who each option fits best.

Comparisons

GLP-1 Pill vs Injection: Which Is Better for Weight Loss?

Compare GLP-1 pills (Foundayo, Wegovy oral, Rybelsus) vs injections (Wegovy, Zepbound, Ozempic, Mounjaro). Weight loss data, convenience, cost, and which is right for you.

Cost & Insurance

How Much Does Foundayo Cost? Complete Pricing Guide (2026)

Foundayo (orforglipron) costs $149-$249/month self-pay, $25/month with savings card, $50/month on Medicare. Full 2026 pricing breakdown with insurance tips.

Ozempic fact review snapshot

Medication

Ozempic

Tracked facts

Human verified

Last refreshed: 2026-04-07

This page pulls from MedSwitcher's structured medication fact database. Facts are tracked separately from page copy so we can update sources, pricing, and trial details without guessing.

Primary source trail

Ozempic Prescribing Information
STEP trial references
Ozempic list price

Want the boring but important details? Read our editorial policy and methodology.

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Recommended Products

Supplies and tools commonly used by GLP-1 patients during their treatment journey.

BD Home Sharps Container (1.4 Qt)Safe Disposal

Medical-grade sharps container for safe disposal of injection pens and needles. Holds ~300 pen needles.

Metene Blood Glucose Monitor KitGlucose Monitor

Complete glucose monitoring kit with 100 strips, 100 lancets, and carrying case. No coding required.

Etekcity Food Kitchen ScalePortion Control

Rechargeable stainless steel scale for portion control — essential during GLP-1 weight loss.

AUVON Insulin Cooler Travel CaseTravel Case

Insulated case with TSA-approved ice packs. Keeps Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound pens cold 4-8 hours.

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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.