*Patients with diabetes but with a BMI of ≥30, or ≥27 with comorbidities, lost an average of 7% of their body weight in 1 year in a 68-week clinical trial evaluating 1 mg semaglutide, when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
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Join 150,000+ Ro weight loss patients
Ozempic® prescribed online for weight loss
(semaglutide) injection
A weekly shot to lose weight
Helps you feel full faster, longer
Improves the way your body responds to sugars
Ozempic is not FDA-approved for weight loss, but may be prescribed if a provider deems it appropriate
Ozempic treats type 2 diabetes but may be prescribed for weight loss, if appropriate. Ozempic may have serious side effects, including possible thyroid tumors. Do not use if you or your family have a history of a type of thyroid cancer called MTC or MEN 2. Read more about serious warnings and safety info.
Revolutionary medication
Ozempic is semaglutide (a GLP-1) that may be prescribed for weight loss, if appropriate. It’s a once-weekly shot that works by mimicking your body’s natural hormones, helping you feel fuller faster and for longer.
Medication is not included in the cost of the Body Program. But don’t worry, our insurance concierge partners explore all options to help get you covered. Ozempic is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes treatment, but may be prescribed for weight loss.
In Ozempic clinical trials, patients lost an average of 7% of their body weight*
"Is using medication to lose weight cheating?"
Dr. Steve Silvestro, Ro
Wegovy vs. Ozempic: Which is right for you?
Semaglutide injection was first approved under the brand name Ozempic in 2017 as a treatment for type 2 diabetes.
In 2021, the FDA approved the drug at a different dosage under the brand name Wegovy as a weight loss medication. Doctors often, using their medical judgment and discretion, prescribe both for weight loss, but there are a few key differences between them.
*Patients with diabetes but with a BMI of ≥30, or ≥27 with comorbidities, lost an average of 7% of their body weight in 1 year in a 68-week clinical trial evaluating 1 mg semaglutide, when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Meet the Ro Ambassadors who inspired the Body Program
Lost 40 lbs in 11 months
“I have never felt better. I have never had more energy. This medication changed my life.”
Mary, after taking GLP-1 medication
Lost 30 lbs in 1 year
“I started losing weight almost immediately. To me, truly, this has been a game-changer.”
Dr. Pepper, after taking GLP-1 medication
Our insurance concierge partners will work to find you coverage for medication.
Here's how they'll do it:
We know this can be a headache, so the team will take care of communicating with your insurance company. They’ll even handle the paperwork.
The team will look into the medication options that are right for you. If you get denied for one medication, they’ll look for other options that are clinically appropriate for you. And, once approved, the team will help find a pharmacy that can fulfill your prescription.
If your insurance doesn’t cover the cost of your medication, the team will see if there are patient access programs that would help reduce your out-of-pocket cost. If you want to explore cash pay options, they’ll help you figure out the available options in your area.
First the team will call local pharmacies, but if there isn’t one able to fulfill your prescription, they’ll search for a pharmacy to send you the medication by mail. Even when there’s a national supply chain shortage, the team won’t stop working on your behalf.
How it works
We help you lose weight by pairing revolutionary medication with coaching, care, and healthy lifestyle changes to make it last.
Share your health history and weight loss goals with your Ro-affiliated provider.
Your provider will order a metabolic lab test after they have reviewed your health history. You can take your test at any Quest location or purchase an at-home blood collection kit through Ro for an additional cost.
If you live in a state where Quest is not available, we’ll automatically send you an at-home collection kit for no charge.
Your Ro-affiliated provider will review your results to see if medication is right for you. If it is, you’ll begin the Body Program, which includes: an insurance concierge service, access to medication, ongoing provider care, a personal health coach, a smart scale, and regular emails with healthy lifestyle strategies.
If medication is prescribed, our insurance concierge partner connects with your insurance company to help get the cost of medication covered. This process takes about 1-3 weeks, although it may take longer if initial coverage is denied. (It's possible that some insurers won't cover the medication. In that case, you'll have the option to pay cash.)
If you move forward with treatment, our partner will go the extra mile to find a pharmacy with medication available.
We're with you every step of the way, from your first shot to your first weight loss win.
Thousands of people are losing weight with GLP-1 medications
Hear more from our Ro Ambassadors, whose success inspired the Body Program.
“GLP-1s have been a game-changer. Over the past year, I have lost around 30 lbs.”
Dr. Pepper
"Following this program is one of the most convenient ways of losing weight that I’ve tried.”
Julie P.
"I've never felt better. I've never had more energy."
Mary
Ozempic 101
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a brand-name version of the generic medication semaglutide, which is a type of medication called a glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist. Instead of that tongue-twister of a name, we call these medications “GLP-1s” for short.
Ozempic is FDA-approved for the management of certain symptoms and risks of type 2 diabetes.
How does Ozempic work?
Ozempic works by slowing the digestion process, which can help you to feel full for longer. Ozempic, like other GLP-1 receptor agonists, acts like a hormone your body naturally makes to regulate blood sugar and may help support weight loss.
Do you prescribe Ozempic for weight loss?
Ozempic is not FDA-approved for weight loss. Ro-affiliated healthcare professionals have the discretion to prescribe a medication off-label if they believe it is an appropriate course of treatment for a particular patient.
How can Ozempic help with weight loss? It acts like a natural hormone your body uses to regulate blood sugar and appetite—key steps in resetting your biological set point to help you maintain a new, lower weight.
See if Ozempic is right for you here.
What is Ozempic’s dosing?
Ozempic dosing starts out low, then gradually increases over the first few months until a steady dose is reached. If prescribed, your Ro-affiliated provider will work with you to find the schedule and dosing that’s right for you. As an example, the lowest dose of Ozempic is 0.25 mg once a week and the maximum dose is 2.0 mg once a week.
How do you take Ozempic?
Ozempic comes in a prefilled injection pen that contains multiple doses. If prescribed, you (or someone in your household) will select the prescribed dose, then administer the injection under the skin of your stomach, thigh, or arm once a week.
While a routine injection may sound intimidating, the Ozempic pen uses a tiny needle designed to minimize discomfort. You’ll also receive clear instructions on using the injection pen, and your Ro-affiliated provider can offer additional advice.
Will my insurance cover the cost of Ozempic?
How to get Ozempic covered by insurance—it’s a very important question! Well, you can consider us your insurance concierge.
Our partners will work directly with your insurance provider to help with the process of determining coverage for your GLP-1 medication, which is paid for separately from the Body Program. Ro does not accept insurance for the Body Program, which is cash pay only. At this time, those with any form of government healthcare coverage (including programs such as Medicare, Medicaid or TRICARE), whether primary or secondary, are not eligible for the Body Program. These plans typically do not cover the type of medication the Body Program may prescribe. Unfortunately, this means that those on Medicare or eligible for Medicare cannot join the Body Program.
$135/month through 6/4, $99 first month promo
What's included?
Access to Wegovy® or Ozempic®
Insurance coverage support
Dedicated health coach
Metabolic test
Smart scale
Ongoing provider care
Weekly curriculum email
Please note: The cost of medication is not included in the Body Program
Medication is prescribed only if appropriate.
Still have questions? We have answers.
The cost of your Ozempic medication can range depending on your insurance coverage—and we’re here to help with that!
As your insurance concierge, our team will work with your insurance provider to determine coverage for your GLP-1 medication. Please note that this medication is paid for separately from the Body Program, which is only available by cash pay and does not accept insurance. Currently, individuals with any government healthcare coverage, including Medicare, Medicaid, or TRICARE, are ineligible for the Ro Body Program as these plans typically do not cover the medications prescribed by the program. Unfortunately, this means that those who are eligible for Medicare cannot participate in the Ro Body Program.
While a Ro-affiliated provider may offer personalized guidance for each individual, in general, there are no foods to avoid while taking Ozempic. In fact, our Body Program makes a point to avoid labeling any food as “off-limits,” and instead guides you in finding an approach to food that’s both enjoyable and supports your weight loss goals.
However, if prescribed Ozempic, you might choose to avoid certain foods on days that your doses are increased. Some gastrointestinal side effects like nausea may occur when Ozempic doses are increased, so you might find that it’s best to avoid foods that make you feel gassy or bloated on days that you’re increasing your dose.
All medications carry a risk of potential side effects. Ozempic’s side effects are typically mild and often improve within the first few weeks of treatment. When they occur, it’s usually when doses are increased, then tend to improve once a steady dose is reached. Some of the most common side effects include:
Nausea
Vomiting
Upset stomach
Stomach pains
Constipation
Diarrhea
Heartburn
Acid reflux
Belching and gas
Dizziness
Headaches
Fatigue
More severe side effects are rarer but possible. Serious side effects include:
Thyroid cancer—The FDA has issued its most serious warning (called a BOXED WARNING) that GLP-1s may be associated with a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma. So far, this side effect has primarily been seen in laboratory studies using rodents, so the risk to humans has not been determined.
Pancreatitis
Gallbladder disease
Rapid heartbeat
Severe allergy (hypersensitivity)
Low blood sugar
Vision problems (diabetic retinopathy)
Kidney disease
Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
Please see the full Prescribing Information, including the BOXED WARNING, for complete safety information.
We hear all the time that weight loss depends on willpower. And that’s just not true. Obesity is a disease, not a decision. Being overweight is about the biology of your body. There are steps that you can take to put science on your side. And we know how.
There are lots of reasons, but here are three:
Trying to make too many big changes all at once.
Going on extreme diets that are hard to maintain.
Following a cookie-cutter plan that doesn’t understand personal biology.
Weight management tips from our experts
Reading time: 14 min
What is Ozempic & how to get it for weight loss
Reading time: 15 min
Reading time: 7 min
Wegovy vs. Ozempic: which is right for you?
Reading time: 7 min
Important safety information
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:
Contact Novo Nordisk Inc. at 1-833-934-6891
Contact FDA MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088 or visit www.fda.gov/medwatch
This information is not comprehensive. Please see the full Prescribing Information for complete safety information.