Wegovy vs Foundayo (orforglipron)
Side-by-side comparison based on STEP-1 and ATTAIN-1 phase 3 trial data plus April 2026 pricing.
Wegovy
Higher efficacysemaglutide (injection)
Peak weight loss14.9%
TrialSTEP-1
Administrationinjection
FDA statusweight-loss
List price$1,349/mo
Foundayo (orforglipron)
orforglipron (tablet)
Peak weight loss14.7%
TrialATTAIN-1
Administrationoral
FDA statuspending
List price$1,099/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 | Wegovy | Foundayo (orforglipron) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Covered by insurance ($25–150 copay) | $63 | $63 | $0 (Foundayo (orforglipron) cheaper) |
| Manufacturer self-pay (LillyDirect / NovoCare) | $499 | $499 | $0 (Foundayo (orforglipron) cheaper) |
| Telehealth — brand name (Hims, Ro, Found) | $449 | — | — |
| Cash retail (full list price) | $1,349 | $1,099 | $250 (Foundayo (orforglipron) cheaper) |
Wegovy pros and cons
Pros
- ✓ FDA-approved specifically for weight loss
- ✓ Robust 14.9% average weight loss in STEP-1
- ✓ Wide telehealth and pharmacy availability
- ✓ Once-weekly injection (good adherence)
Cons
- ✗ High list price ($1,349/mo without coverage)
- ✗ Insurance often denies for weight loss without comorbidity
- ✗ Mild-to-moderate GI side effects common during titration
- ✗ Lower efficacy than tirzepatide-based alternatives
Foundayo (orforglipron) pros and cons
Pros
- ✓ Daily pill with NO fasting requirement (advantage over oral Wegovy)
- ✓ Non-peptide small molecule — easier manufacturing/scale
- ✓ 14.7% average weight loss in ATTAIN-1
- ✓ Likely to be lower-priced than peptide injections at scale
Cons
- ✗ Pending FDA approval (expected mid-2026)
- ✗ Less long-term safety data than older GLP-1s
- ✗ Daily adherence required
Common side effects
Wegovy
- • Nausea
- • Diarrhea
- • Constipation
- • Vomiting
- • Headache
Foundayo (orforglipron)
- • Nausea
- • Diarrhea
- • Vomiting
- • Constipation
Which should you choose: Wegovy or Foundayo (orforglipron)?
Choose Wegovy if: you prefer a weekly injection over a daily pill; you want a drug FDA-approved specifically for weight loss.
Choose Foundayo (orforglipron) if: you prefer a daily pill over a weekly injection; cash-pay cost matters most to you.
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.