Wegovy vs Ozempic
Side-by-side comparison based on STEP-1 and STEP-2 (T2D) 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
Ozempic
semaglutide (injection)
Peak weight loss11.6%
TrialSTEP-2 (T2D)
Administrationinjection
FDA statustype-2-diabetes
List price$998/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 | Ozempic | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Covered by insurance ($25–150 copay) | $63 | $63 | $0 (Ozempic cheaper) |
| Manufacturer self-pay (LillyDirect / NovoCare) | $499 | — | — |
| Telehealth — brand name (Hims, Ro, Found) | $449 | $399 | $50 (Ozempic cheaper) |
| Cash retail (full list price) | $1,349 | $998 | $351 (Ozempic 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
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
Common side effects
Wegovy
- • Nausea
- • Diarrhea
- • Constipation
- • Vomiting
- • Headache
Ozempic
- • Nausea
- • Diarrhea
- • Vomiting
- • Constipation
- • Abdominal pain
Which should you choose: Wegovy or Ozempic?
Choose Wegovy if: you want maximum weight loss (14.9% vs 11.6%); you want a drug FDA-approved specifically for weight loss.
Choose Ozempic if: cash-pay cost matters most to you; you have type 2 diabetes (insurance is more likely to cover).
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.