Ozempic vs CagriSema
Side-by-side comparison based on STEP-2 (T2D) and REDEFINE-1 phase 3 trial data plus April 2026 pricing.
Ozempic
semaglutide (injection)
Peak weight loss11.6%
TrialSTEP-2 (T2D)
Administrationinjection
FDA statustype-2-diabetes
List price$998/mo
CagriSema
Higher efficacycagrilintide + semaglutide
Peak weight loss20.4%
TrialREDEFINE-1
Administrationinjection
FDA statuspending
List price$1,499/mo
Weight loss comparison (220 lbs starting weight)
% of body weight lost over 18 months, modeled from phase 3 trial data
Monthly cost by payment channel
| Channel | Ozempic | CagriSema | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Covered by insurance ($25–150 copay) | $63 | $88 | $25 (Ozempic cheaper) |
| Manufacturer self-pay (LillyDirect / NovoCare) | — | $599 | — |
| Telehealth — brand name (Hims, Ro, Found) | $399 | — | — |
| Cash retail (full list price) | $998 | $1,499 | $501 (Ozempic cheaper) |
Ozempic pros and cons
Pros
- ✓ Often easier to get insurance coverage if you have type 2 diabetes
- ✓ Lower list price than Wegovy
- ✓ Same active ingredient as Wegovy (semaglutide)
- ✓ Strong cardiovascular outcome data (SUSTAIN-6)
Cons
- ✗ Off-label for weight loss — insurance won't cover for that purpose
- ✗ Lower max dose than Wegovy (2.0 mg vs 2.4 mg) means slightly less weight loss
- ✗ Periodic shortages
CagriSema pros and cons
Pros
- ✓ Highest efficacy of any pending GLP-1 (20.4% in REDEFINE-1)
- ✓ Dual mechanism (amylin + GLP-1) targets satiety differently
- ✓ Once-weekly injection like Wegovy
Cons
- ✗ Pending FDA approval (expected 2026)
- ✗ Combination therapy may carry premium pricing
- ✗ Limited long-term real-world data
Common side effects
Ozempic
- • Nausea
- • Diarrhea
- • Vomiting
- • Constipation
- • Abdominal pain
CagriSema
- • Nausea
- • Diarrhea
- • Vomiting
- • Constipation
- • Decreased appetite
Which should you choose: Ozempic or CagriSema?
Choose Ozempic if: cash-pay cost matters most to you.
Choose CagriSema if: you want maximum weight loss (20.4% vs 11.6%).
Final decisions should always be made with a licensed prescriber. This is educational content only.
Medical disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates only based on phase 3 clinical trial data and publicly listed prices. It is not medical advice. Real-world weight loss varies significantly. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any medication.