GLP-1 Guide

Drug Comparison

Side-by-side comparison of all major GLP-1 receptor agonist medications.

DrugGeneric NameTypeRouteFrequencyDosesPrimary IndicationAvg Weight Loss
OzempicSemaglutideGLP-1 RASubcutaneous injectionOnce weekly0.25mg, 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mgType 2 Diabetes~10-14%
WegovySemaglutideGLP-1 RASubcutaneous injectionOnce weekly0.25mg, 0.5mg, 1mg, 1.7mg, 2.4mgWeight Management~15-17%
MounjaroTirzepatideDual GIP/GLP-1 RASubcutaneous injectionOnce weekly2.5mg, 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 12.5mg, 15mgType 2 Diabetes~15-21%
ZepboundTirzepatideDual GIP/GLP-1 RASubcutaneous injectionOnce weekly2.5mg, 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 12.5mg, 15mgWeight Management~18-22%
SaxendaLiraglutideGLP-1 RASubcutaneous injectionOnce daily0.6mg, 1.2mg, 1.8mg, 2.4mg, 3mgWeight Management~5-8%
VictozaLiraglutideGLP-1 RASubcutaneous injectionOnce daily0.6mg, 1.2mg, 1.8mgType 2 Diabetes~3-5%
TrulicityDulaglutideGLP-1 RASubcutaneous injectionOnce weekly0.75mg, 1.5mg, 3mg, 4.5mgType 2 Diabetes~3-5%
RybelsusOral SemaglutideGLP-1 RAOral tabletOnce daily3mg, 7mg, 14mgType 2 Diabetes~4-8%

Key Differences

Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, while semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) targets only GLP-1. Clinical trials suggest tirzepatide may produce greater weight loss and A1C reduction.

Weekly vs Daily Dosing

Most newer GLP-1 drugs (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound, Trulicity) are dosed weekly, while older options (Victoza, Saxenda) and oral Rybelsus require daily dosing. Weekly injections may improve adherence.

Injection vs Oral

Rybelsus is the only oral GLP-1 medication. It must be taken on an empty stomach with no more than 4 oz of water, at least 30 minutes before eating. All others are administered via subcutaneous injection using pre-filled pens.

Important Note

Weight loss percentages are approximate averages from clinical trials and individual results may vary significantly. These medications should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider. This table is for educational purposes only.