What Are Alternatives To Ozempic®?

There are various reasons you might need to consider an Ozempic® alternative. Perhaps the cost is prohibitive, it's not readily available, you're concerned about potential side effects, or you prefer a different treatment option.

Whatever the reason, exploring alternatives to Ozempic® is a smart move. After all, Ozempic® is just one of several GLP-1 agonists on the market, and other options may suit your needs just as well. In this article, we'll dive into some alternatives that can help you achieve similar results.

What Is Ozempic®?

Ozempic® is a brand-name prescription medication that received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, it has also gained recognition for its effectiveness in weight management. [1]

This dual-purpose benefit is due to Ozempic®'s ability to mimic the effects of the natural hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) in the body. GLP-1 plays a major role in regulating blood sugar levels and, in turn, contributes to weight management by reducing appetite and slowing the digestive process. [1]

While Ozempic® has proven to be effective, it’s not the only GLP-1 agonist available. Depending on your specific needs and circumstances, you might find another option that works just as well or even better for you.

Semaglutides for Weight Loss

Semaglutides are a class of medications that function as GLP-1 receptor agonists, commonly prescribed under the brand names Ozempic® and Wegovy®. [1] As mentioned earlier, Ozempic® is FDA-approved primarily for managing type 2 diabetes, with the added benefit of aiding in weight loss for some patients.

Wegovy®, on the other hand, is specifically approved by the FDA for weight management in individuals who are either obese or overweight, with at least one weight-related condition. [1]

While both medications work in the same way by mimicking the action of the GLP-1 hormone to regulate appetite and blood sugar levels, Wegovy® is formulated at a higher dose, making it more effective for weight loss compared to Ozempic®.

The effectiveness of semaglutides in promoting weight loss is well-supported by clinical studies. For instance, the SELECT study demonstrated that patients who received a once-weekly 2.4 mg dose of subcutaneous semaglutide experienced significantly greater weight loss compared to those given a placebo. This weight loss was achieved over 65 weeks and was maintained for up to four years. [2] Another cohort study in JAMA Network Open found that semaglutide is clinically effective for weight loss at both 3 and 6 months in individuals who are overweight or obese. [3]

Other Weight Loss Medications

If semaglutides aren't the right fit for you, other classes of weight loss medications or Ozempic® alternatives over the counter might be worth considering.

Orlistat

This FDA-approved anti-obesity medication works by inhibiting the absorption of dietary fat in the gut, which helps reduce overall calorie intake. [4] Orlistat is recommended for:

• Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) over 30 kg/m².
• Those with a BMI above 27 kg/m² who also have risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, or dyslipidemia.
• Individuals aiming to prevent weight regain after previous weight loss. For optimal results, orlistat should be used in combination with a balanced diet and regular exercise. [5]

Phentermine

This is an appetite suppressant that’s typically prescribed for short-term use. It can help jump-start weight loss efforts but is usually part of a broader weight management plan that includes diet and exercise. [6]

Naltrexone/Bupropion

The combination of bupropion and naltrexone together is FDA-approved for use as a weight loss medication.

Each of these medications comes with its own set of benefits and potential side effects, so it’s important to discuss with your healthcare provider which option may be best suited for your needs.

Comparable Brand-Name GLP-1s

Aside from Ozempic®, you might consider other GLP-1 agonists as alternative to Ozempic® for weight loss.

Wegovy®

As mentioned earlier, Wegovy® is another brand of semaglutide that’s specifically marketed for weight loss. It’s similar to Ozempic® in terms of its active ingredient but is dosed differently to optimize weight management outcomes.

Saxenda®

Saxenda® (liraglutide) is another GLP-1 agonist approved specifically for chronic weight management. While it functions similarly to Ozempic®, Saxenda® may be a better option for those who have difficulty tolerating the longer-acting effects of semaglutide (Ozempic®). Unlike Ozempic®, which is administered weekly, Saxenda® requires daily dosing, offering a more consistent but shorter duration of action. [7,8]

These alternatives offer similar benefits to Ozempic® but might differ in their dosing, administration, or side effect profiles. It’s important to understand these differences when considering a switch or starting a new treatment.

Compounded GLP-1s and Other Weight Loss Medications

For those seeking more tailored treatment options, compounded GLP-1 medications might be an alternative. Compounding involves creating personalized medications by mixing or altering ingredients to fit the specific needs of an individual patient.

Compounded GLP-1s

These can offer customized dosing or combination therapies that aren’t available with standard prescription medications. However, they may not be FDA-approved and can carry additional risks, so it’s essential to work closely with a healthcare provider if considering this option.

If deemed eligible, you can access compounded GLP-1s through Everlywell, with prices starting at $199. Once ordered, your medication will be conveniently shipped directly to your home.

Other Compounded Weight Loss Medications

In addition to GLP-1s, other weight loss drugs can be compounded to meet your specific needs, such as combining appetite suppressants with fat blockers or other weight loss agents.

Compounded medications might provide a solution for those who haven’t found success with traditional options or require a more personalized approach to weight loss.

Be sure to consult your healthcare provider about what path might make the most sense for you.

Lifestyle Changes to Support Your Weight Loss Goals

While medications like Ozempic® and other GLP-1 agonists can be highly effective tools in managing weight, they work best when combined with healthy lifestyle changes. Here are some key lifestyle changes that can support your weight loss goals.

Adopt a Balanced Diet

Focus on consuming a diet rich in whole foods, including vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains. Reducing processed foods, sugary drinks, and high-fat foods can help you create a caloric deficit while providing essential nutrients. Consider consulting a nutritionist to develop a meal plan that fits your lifestyle and dietary preferences.

Increase Physical Activity

Regular physical activity is an important component of weight management. Incorporate aerobic exercises like walking, running, or swimming and strength training to build muscle and improve metabolism. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

Practice Mindful Eating

Mindful eating involves paying attention to hunger and fullness cues, eating slowly, and savoring each bite. This practice can help you avoid overeating and develop a healthier relationship with food.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is often overlooked but is important for weight loss. Staying hydrated helps regulate your appetite, as sometimes thirst can be mistaken for hunger. Water also supports digestion and helps your body metabolize stored fat. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, and consider drinking a glass before meals to help control portion sizes.

Manage Stress and Sleep

Chronic stress and poor sleep can hinder weight loss by increasing hunger hormones like cortisol and disrupting metabolism. Prioritize stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises, and aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.

Set Realistic Goals

Setting achievable and measurable goals can keep you motivated and focused on your weight loss journey. Rather than aiming for drastic changes, focus on small, sustainable habits that can be maintained over time.

Everlywell’s Weight Care+ Program

Choosing the right weight loss strategy requires careful thought, as it’s essential to consider factors such as effectiveness, potential side effects, availability, and cost. While Ozempic® is an effective option for weight loss, exploring alternatives with your healthcare provider may help you find a solution that better fits your individual needs.

Everlywell’s Weight Care+ Program provides a holistic approach to weight management. This program offers personalized care plans that include FDA-approved weight loss medications like GLP-1s, as well as other treatments tailored to your specific health goals. Some of the available medications include:

• Ozempic®
• Compounded semaglutide
• Zepbound®
• Wegovy®
• Mounjaro®
• Metformin
• Saxenda®
• Orlistat
• Naltrexone/Bupropion

For more information and to explore the best weight loss options for your unique needs, consider consulting a healthcare provider through Everlywell’s Weight Care+ Program.

1. Medications Containing Semaglutide Marketed for Type 2 Diabetes or Weight Loss. FDA. Medical Citation URL.
2. Ryan DH, Lingvay I, Deanfield J, et al. Long-term weight loss effects of semaglutide in obesity without diabetes in the SELECT trial. Nature Medicine. 2024;30(7):2049-2057. doi:10.1038/s41591-024-02996-7. Medical Citation URL.
3. Ghusn W, De La Rosa A, Sacoto D, et al. Weight loss outcomes associated with semaglutide treatment for patients with overweight or obesity. JAMA Network Open. 2022;5(9):e2231982. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.31982. Medical Citation URL.
4. Alli weight-loss pill: Does it work? Mayo Clinic. Published April 9, 2024. Medical Citation URL.
5. Bansal AB, Patel P, Khalili YA. Orlistat. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. Published February 14, 2024. Medical Citation URL.
6. Johnson DB, Quick J. Topiramate and phentermine. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. Published March 27, 2023. Medical Citation URL.
7. Dosing Schedule | Ozempic® (semaglutide) injection. Medical Citation URL.
8. Dosing Schedule for Saxenda® | Saxenda® (liraglutide) injection 3mg. Medical Citation URL.