Frequently Asked Questions

Both contain semaglutide and are made by Novo Nordisk. Ozempic is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (doses up to 2mg), while Wegovy is approved for chronic weight management (doses up to 2.4mg). They use similar mechanisms but are prescribed for different primary indications and at different maximum doses.

Both contain tirzepatide by Eli Lilly. Mounjaro is approved for type 2 diabetes, while Zepbound is approved for chronic weight management. They are the same molecule — tirzepatide — a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, but marketed under different names for different indications.

Results vary significantly between individuals. In clinical trials, semaglutide (Wegovy) showed average weight loss of about 15-17% of body weight, while tirzepatide (Zepbound) showed approximately 18-22%. Older GLP-1 drugs like liraglutide typically show 5-8% weight loss. These are averages — individual results depend on dose, diet, exercise, and other factors.

GLP-1 receptor agonists have been studied in clinical trials lasting several years and are generally considered safe for long-term use when prescribed by a healthcare provider. However, they carry a boxed warning regarding thyroid C-cell tumors (based on animal studies) and should be used with ongoing medical supervision. Long-term data continues to accumulate.

Yes, certain GLP-1 medications are approved for weight management regardless of diabetes status. Wegovy and Zepbound are specifically approved for chronic weight management in adults with a BMI ≥30 (obesity) or BMI ≥27 (overweight) with at least one weight-related comorbidity such as hypertension, high cholesterol, or sleep apnea.

Research indicates that most people regain some or all of the weight lost after discontinuing GLP-1 medications. Blood sugar levels in diabetic patients may also return to pre-treatment levels. This is why these medications are typically considered long-term treatments. Any decision to stop should be made with your healthcare provider.

Nausea is primarily caused by the slowing of gastric emptying (gastroparesis effect) and the drug's action on nausea centers in the brain. This is why all GLP-1 medications use a dose escalation schedule — starting at a low dose and gradually increasing allows your body to adjust. Nausea typically decreases or resolves over the first few weeks at each dose level.

Rybelsus (oral semaglutide) is effective for type 2 diabetes management but generally shows somewhat less weight loss compared to injectable semaglutide at higher doses. The oral formulation has lower bioavailability, and the maximum dose (14mg oral) delivers less semaglutide to the bloodstream than injectable formulations. However, it offers a non-injection alternative for patients who prefer oral medication.

Yes, GLP-1 receptor agonists can be used alongside insulin, and combination therapy is common in type 2 diabetes management. However, using them together increases the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), so insulin doses often need to be adjusted. Always work with your healthcare provider to coordinate medication dosing.

Before first use, GLP-1 injection pens should be stored in the refrigerator (36°F to 46°F / 2°C to 8°C). After first use, most pens can be stored at room temperature (up to 86°F / 30°C) for a limited time (typically 21-56 days depending on the medication). Never freeze them and protect from direct heat and light. Check your specific medication's labeling for exact storage instructions.

There are no specific foods that are contraindicated, but fatty, greasy, and very large meals may worsen GI side effects. For Rybelsus specifically, it must be taken on an empty stomach with no more than 4 oz of water, 30 minutes before eating. Drug interactions include increased hypoglycemia risk with insulin or sulfonylureas, and potential effects on absorption of oral medications due to slowed gastric emptying.