Unlock your healthiest body yet with the Body Program. Learn more

Health Guide / GLP-1

Ozempic alternatives: 5 options to consider

chimene richaAmelia willson

Reviewed by Chimene Richa, MD, written by Amelia Willson

Last updated: Aug 04, 2022
6 min read

table of contents

  1. What is Ozempic? 
  2. Cheaper alternatives to Ozempic
  3. 5 Ozempic alternatives to consider

Ozempic is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that helps lower blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It can also help with weight loss (Chamberlin, 2019). Possible Ozempic alternatives include Bydureon (exenatide), Victoza (liraglutide), Mounjaro (tirzepatide), Tanzeum (Albiglutide), and Trulicity (dulaglutide).

xpoll-ac-ro-body-shot

weight loss

Fad diets stop here. If appropriate, get effective weight loss treatment prescribed for your body.

Start nowLearn more
Start nowLearn more

weight loss

xpoll-ac-ro-body-shot

Fad diets stop here. If appropriate, get effective weight loss treatment prescribed for your body.

Start nowLearn more

What is Ozempic? 

Ozempic (generic semaglutide; see Important Safety Information) is a prescription pen that helps people with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar levels. Ozempic also lowers the risk of stroke, heart attack, or death in people with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The pen comes pre-filled with medicine that the person injects into their abdomen, thigh, or upper arm every week. You can take Ozempic with or without meals (DailyMed, 2022). 

Ozempic lowers your appetite and, combined with diet and exercise, can help you lose weight. People with overweight or obesity may benefit from an off-label prescription of Ozempic for weight loss (O’Neil, 2018; Wilding, 2021).

Ozempic side effects

Ozempic side effects typically include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which may be experienced by around one in three people (Chamberlin, 2019). Rarer side effects include abdominal pain, constipation, or redness at the injection site. Ozempic may also increase the risk of experiencing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or developing a gallbladder or gastrointestinal disorder (Wilding, 2021; DailyMed, 2022). Ozempic is not recommended for children, people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or those with (DailyMed, 2022):

  • Pancreatitis
  • A personal or family history of thyroid cancer
  • Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2
  • Diabetic retinopathy (vision loss caused by diabetes)

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a “black box” warning for Ozempic, the most serious advisory they issue for a medication. Animal studies have found that Ozempic increases the risk of thyroid tumors in mice and rats. While we don’t know if it has the same effect in humans, people with a personal or family history of thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 should not use Ozempic (DailyMed, 2022).

What is Ozempic & how to get it for weight loss

Ozempic • Last updated: Feb 21, 2023 • 14 min read

Cheaper alternatives to Ozempic

A one-month supply of Ozempic costs around $800. This is in line with other GLP-1 receptor agonists but is more expensive than some other medications that help lower blood glucose levels (Chamberlin, 2019). For example, one report conducted in Canada found that Trulicity (dulaglutide), Bydureon (exenatide), and Victoza (liraglutide) are cheaper alternatives to Ozempic (CADTH, 2019).

The price of Ozempic will vary based on your insurance coverage and the pharmacy you use. Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic, does offer an Ozempic Savings Card, which may reduce your Ozempic cost. It is only available to people with private or commercial insurance. You can learn more about the program and determine your eligibility here.

5 Ozempic alternatives to consider

Most of the Ozempic alternatives below are GLP-1 receptor agonists, just like Ozempic. These diabetes medications work by directing the pancreas to release more insulin when blood glucose levels get too high. This helps bring blood sugar levels back down. At the same time, GLP-1 receptor agonists also limit the release of glucagon, a hormone that raises your blood glucose levels. Finally, GLP-1 receptor agonists slow down digestion. Since it takes longer for your stomach to empty, you feel full longer, which may lead you to eat less food and experience weight loss (Bridges, 2022; Mehta, 2017). 

1. Bydureon or Byetta (exenatide)

Like Ozempic, Bydureon and Byetta (exenatide) are injectable medications that help people with type 2 diabetes control their blood glucose levels. There are two versions of exenatide. The immediate-release version is taken twice daily, up to one hour before eating. The extended-release is used on a weekly basis, similar to Ozempic (Bridges, 2022).

Bydureon and Byetta are typically prescribed to people as a second-line treatment after other medications haven’t worked (the same is true of Ozempic). They are used in addition to diet and exercise, and can be prescribed on their own or with other diabetes medications such as metformin (Bridges, 2022).

The most common side effect is nausea, which usually lessens as you continue to use exenatide. Other side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headaches, and upset stomach. You could also experience low blood sugar, pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), or an allergic reaction while using Bydureon or Byetta. This drug carries the same black box warning as Ozempic and other GLP-1 medications, and should be avoided if you are currently pregnant or breastfeeding or have kidney failure or pancreatitis (Bridges, 2022).

How much does Ozempic cost without insurance?

Ozempic • Last updated: Mar 13, 2023 • 6 min read

2. Victoza or Saxenda (liraglutide)

Victoza and Saxenda (liraglutide) also help control blood glucose levels. While Victoza is intended for people with type 2 diabetes, Saxenda is FDA-approved to help people with overweight or obesity lose weight. Both Victoza and Saxenda are injected daily (Mehta, 2017). 

Ozempic and Victoza share some side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and the potential for pancreatitis or hypoglycemia. However, increased heart rate is another side effect of Victoza. Liraglutide has the same black box warning as Ozempic and other GLP-1 drugs (Mehta, 2017).

3. Tanzeum or Eperzan (albiglutide)

Like Ozempic, Tanzeum and Eperzan (albiglutide) are prescription pens filled with a medication you inject weekly to help control blood sugar levels. The side effects are usually gastrointestinal issues, ranging from mild to moderate (Blair, 2015). However, injection site reactions and diarrhea may be more common with Tanzeum or Eperzan than with other GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic (Ahrén, 2017).

4. Trulicity (dulaglutide)

Trulicity (dulaglutide) is another injectable medication that helps improve blood sugar levels and weight loss (Burness, 2015). It should be injected weekly and prescribed in addition to lifestyle changes like diet and exercise (Scott, 2020).

Like Ozempic, Trulicity is prescribed to people with type 2 diabetes who have not found other treatments successful. You can take it on its own or with other diabetes drugs like insulin and metformin. Trulicity also reduces the risk that people with type 2 diabetes—both with and without heart disease—will experience a major cardiac event like stroke, heart attack, or death (Scott, 2020; Burness, 2015).

Trulicity and Ozempic share similar side effects, like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (Burness, 2015).

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) vs. Ozempic (semaglutide): what is the difference?

Ozempic • Last updated: Mar 29, 2023 • 8 min read

5. Mounjaro (tirzepatide)

The previous medications on this list, including Ozempic, are all GLP-1 agonists. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, which may make it more effective at controlling blood sugar levels and subsequent weight loss. Like Ozempic, Mounjaro is injected on a weekly basis (Min, 2021).

Like Ozempic, Mounjaro side effects are typically gastrointestinal, with nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting being the most common. Reduced appetite is another side effect of Mounjaro, and part of how it can lead to weight loss (Min, 2021).

There are several alternatives to Ozempic. The best option for you may depend on your personal medical history and treatment plan. Talk to your healthcare provider about your options.

Disclaimer

If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on Health Guide are underpinned by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

References

  1. Ahrén, B., Carr, M. C., Murphy, K., et al. (2017). Albiglutide for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus: An integrated safety analysis of the HARMONY phase 3 trials. Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice, 126, 230–239. doi:10.1016/j.diabres.2017.02.017. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28284167/
  2. Blair, H. A. & Keating, G. M. (2015). Albiglutide: a review of its use in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Drugs, 75(6), 651–663. doi:10.1007/s40265-015-0370-5. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25777969/
  3. Bridges, A., Bistas, K. G., & Jacobs, T. F.  (2022). Exenatide. StatPearls. Retrieved on July 16, 2022 from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK518981/ 
  4. Burness, C. B. & Scott, L. J. (2015). Dulaglutide: A review in type 2 diabetes. BioDrugs, 29(6), 407–418. doi:10.1007/s40259-015-0143-4. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26423061/
  5. Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH). (2019). Pharmacoeconomic Review Report: Semaglutide (Ozempic): (Novo Nordisk Canada Inc.): Indication: For the treatment of adults patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus to improve glycemic control, in combination with metformin (second-line treatment), and in combination with metformin and sulfonylurea (third-line treatment) [Internet]. Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK543967/ 
  6. Chamberlin, S. & Dabbs, W. (2019). Semaglutide (Ozempic) for type 2 diabetes mellitus. American Family Physician, 100(2), 116–117. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31305048/
  7. DailyMed. (2022). OZEMPIC-semaglutide injection, solution. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=adec4fd2-6858-4c99-91d4-531f5f2a2d79 
  8. Mehta, A., Marso, S. P., & Neeland, I. J. (2017). Liraglutide for weight management: a critical review of the evidence. Obesity Science & Practice, 3(1), 3–14. doi:10.1002/osp4.84. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28392927/
  9. Min, T. & Bain, S. C. (2021). The Role of tirzepatide, dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, in the management of type 2 diabetes: The SURPASS clinical trials. Diabetes Therapy, 12(1), 143–157. doi:10.1007/s13300-020-00981-0. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33325008/
  10. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDKD). Pramlintide. (2016). LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548949/
  11. O’Neil, P. M., Birkenfeld, A. L., McGowan, B., et al. (2018). Efficacy and safety of semaglutide compared with liraglutide and placebo for weight loss in patients with obesity: a randomised, double-blind, placebo and active controlled, dose-ranging, phase 2 trial. Lancet (London, England), 392(10148), 637–649. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(18)31773-2. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30122305/
  12. Scott, L. J. (2020). Dulaglutide: A review in type 2 diabetes. Drugs, 80(2), 197–208. doi:10.1007/s40265-020-01260-9. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32002850/
  13. Wilding, J., Batterham, R. L., Calanna, S., et al. (2021). Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine, 384(11), 989–1002. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2032183. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33567185/ 
chimene richa
Chimene Richa, MD

Dr. Chimene Richa is a board-certified Ophthalmologist and Senior Medical Writer/Reviewer at Ro.

WEIGHT LOSS

Unlock your healthiest body yet with

the Body Program

Related articles

Important Safety Information for Ozempic®

Important Safety Information for Ozempic (semaglutide) injection

Warning: Risk of Thyroid C-Cell Tumors

  • In studies with mice and rats, semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy) caused thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer. It is not known if Ozempic will cause thyroid tumors or a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) in people. Tell your provider if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath. These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer. 
  • Do not use Ozempic if you or any of your family have ever had a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or if you have an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).

What is the FDA-approved use of Ozempic?

Ozempic is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that is used:

  • with diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
  • to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and established cardiovascular disease.

Limitations of Use:

  • Ozempic has not been studied in patients with a history of pancreatitis.
  • Ozempic is not for treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Your Ro-affiliated provider may recommend the use of Ozempic as treatment for chronic weight management (obesity or overweight).

Who should not use Ozempic?

Do not use Ozempic if:

  • You or any of your family have ever had a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or if you have an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
  • You have a known allergic reaction to semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy or Ozempic). 

How should Ozempic be administered? 

You can take Ozempic with or without food. The pre-filled injector pen is self-administered as a subcutaneous injection in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm once a week on the same day every week. Your Ro-affiliated provider will guide you on a treatment regimen that may include an increase in dose every four weeks. 

You should not change your dosing regimen or stop taking Ozempic as prescribed without discussing with your provider first.  

What should I tell my Ro-affiliated provider before using Ozempic?

  • Ozempic has certain drug interactions. It’s important to tell your Ro-affiliated provider all of the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal and dietary supplements. 

Some medications to watch out for include:

  • Medications used to treat type 1 or type 2 diabetes, including insulin or sulfonylureas (such as Amaryl or Glucotrol XL)
  • Ozempic causes a delay in gastric emptying so it has the potential to impact the absorption of medications that are taken by mouth at the same time. Your provider can guide you on how to schedule your medications.
  • Other GLP-1 medications, including Wegovy, Saxenda, Victoza, Byetta, or Bydureon
  • If you’re using other products for weight loss, including dietary supplements

It’s important to share your entire medical history with your provider. In particular, tell your provider if you have a past history of:

  • Type 1 or type 2 diabetes
  • Thyroid cancer
  • Pancreatitis
  • Kidney disease
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Depression
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior

Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. 

  • If you are pregnant: Ozempic should not be used during pregnancy. Based on animal studies, there may be potential risks to an unborn baby from exposure to Ozempic during pregnancy. There is no benefit to weight loss during pregnancy and it may cause harm to the unborn baby. 
  • If you are a female or male of reproductive potential: Discontinue Ozempic at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy since the drug can stay in the bloodstream for a long time.
  • If you are breastfeeding: Ozempic was found in the milk of lactating rats. Tell your Ro-affiliated provider if you are breastfeeding before you start Ozempic.

Pregnancy registry: There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic and Ozempic) during pregnancy. Pregnant women exposed to semaglutide and healthcare providers are encouraged to contact Novo Nordisk at 1-800-727-6500.

Withholding or providing inaccurate information about your health and medical history in order to obtain treatment may result in harm, including, in some cases, death.

What are the most serious side effects that I or a caregiver should monitor for when taking Ozempic? 

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.

These serious side effects can occur with Ozempic. You or a caregiver should carefully monitor for these side effects, especially in the beginning of treatment and with dose changes.

  • Thyroid C-Cell Tumors: In mice and rats, semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic and Ozempic) caused an increase in thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). It is unknown whether Ozempic causes thyroid C-cell tumors in humans. There were cases of MTC reported in patients who took liraglutide (the active ingredient in Victoza and Saxenda) after the drug was put on the market. Ozempic is contraindicated in patients with a family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Tell your provider if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath. These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer. 
  • Inflammation of Pancreas (Acute Pancreatitis): Monitor for signs of acute pancreatitis, including severe abdominal pain that does not go away, sometimes radiating to the back, with or without vomiting.
  • Diabetic Retinopathy Complications in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: If you have type 2 diabetes, tell your provider right away if you experience changes in vision.
  • Never Share a Pen: Pen-sharing poses a risk of infection. 
  • Low Blood Sugar (hypoglycemia): Ozempic lowers blood glucose. It can cause too low blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes who also take another glucose control medication. Monitor your blood sugar and watch out for signs of too low blood sugar such as dizziness, blurred vision, mood changes, sweating, or fast heartbeat.
  • Acute Kidney Injury: In people who have kidney problems, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting may cause a loss of fluids (dehydration) which may cause kidney problems to get worse. It is important for you to drink plenty of water to help reduce your chance of dehydration.
  • Serious Allergic Reactions: Stop using Ozempic right away if you experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat, severe rash or itching, very rapid heartbeat, problems breathing or swallowing, or fainting or feeling dizzy.
  • Acute Gallbladder Disease: Ozempic may cause gallbladder problems, including gallstones. Some gallbladder problems require surgery. Tell your provider right away if you have pain in your upper stomach, yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), fever, or clay-colored stools.
  • Increase in Heart Rate: Tell your provider right away if you have a racing heartbeat while at rest. 
  • Suicidal Behavior and Ideation: You should pay attention to any mental health changes, especially sudden changes in your mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any mental changes that are new, worse, or worry you.

What are the most common side effects of Ozempic?

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain
  • Constipation

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription products:

This information is not comprehensive. Please see the full Prescribing Information for complete safety information.