GLP-1 Medications: Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound & More
A comprehensive overview of currently available GLP-1 receptor agonists, their FDA-approved indications, dosing information, and key differences.
Quick Comparison
The table below provides a side-by-side comparison of the most commonly prescribed GLP-1 medications. For detailed information about each, see the sections below.
| Drug Name | Active Ingredient | FDA Approved For | Administration | Telehealth Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ozempic | Semaglutide | Type 2 diabetes | Weekly injection | Yes |
| Wegovy | Semaglutide | Chronic weight management | Weekly injection | Yes |
| Mounjaro | Tirzepatide | Type 2 diabetes | Weekly injection | Yes |
| Zepbound | Tirzepatide | Chronic weight management | Weekly injection | Yes |
| Rybelsus | Semaglutide | Type 2 diabetes | Daily oral tablet | Varies |
Ozempic
Generic Name: Semaglutide
Active Ingredient
Semaglutide
FDA Approved For
Type 2 diabetes (December 2017)
Dosing Form
Once-weekly subcutaneous injection
Typical Titration Schedule
Typically starts at 0.25 mg weekly for 4 weeks, then 0.5 mg weekly for at least 4 weeks. May increase to 1 mg, then 2 mg based on glycemic response.
Note: This is general information only. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosing schedule for your individual situation.
Notable Considerations
Ozempic is the most widely recognized GLP-1 medication. While FDA-approved only for type 2 diabetes, it is sometimes prescribed off-label for weight management. Available in a pre-filled pen that patients can self-administer at home.
Wegovy
Generic Name: Semaglutide
Active Ingredient
Semaglutide (same as Ozempic, higher dose)
FDA Approved For
Chronic weight management (June 2021)
Dosing Form
Once-weekly subcutaneous injection
Typical Titration Schedule
Starts at 0.25 mg weekly, gradually increasing over 16-20 weeks to the maintenance dose of 2.4 mg weekly. This gradual escalation helps minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
Note: This is general information only. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosing schedule for your individual situation.
Notable Considerations
Wegovy is FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management in adults with BMI ≥30 or BMI ≥27 with weight-related comorbidities. It contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic but is dosed higher for weight management.
Rybelsus
Generic Name: Semaglutide
Active Ingredient
Semaglutide (oral formulation)
FDA Approved For
Type 2 diabetes (September 2019)
Dosing Form
Once-daily oral tablet
Typical Titration Schedule
Starts at 3 mg daily for 30 days, then 7 mg daily. May increase to 14 mg daily if additional glycemic control is needed.
Note: This is general information only. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosing schedule for your individual situation.
Notable Considerations
Rybelsus is the only oral GLP-1 receptor agonist currently available. It must be taken on an empty stomach with no more than 4 ounces of plain water, at least 30 minutes before the first food, drink, or other oral medications of the day.
Mounjaro
Generic Name: Tirzepatide
Active Ingredient
Tirzepatide (dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist)
FDA Approved For
Type 2 diabetes (May 2022)
Dosing Form
Once-weekly subcutaneous injection
Typical Titration Schedule
Starts at 2.5 mg weekly for 4 weeks, then 5 mg weekly. May increase in 2.5 mg increments every 4 weeks to 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, or maximum 15 mg based on response.
Note: This is general information only. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosing schedule for your individual situation.
Notable Considerations
Mounjaro is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, meaning it activates both the GIP and GLP-1 receptors. Clinical trials showed significant A1C reduction and weight loss. While approved for diabetes, it is sometimes prescribed off-label for weight management.
Zepbound
Generic Name: Tirzepatide
Active Ingredient
Tirzepatide (same as Mounjaro)
FDA Approved For
Chronic weight management (November 2023)
Dosing Form
Once-weekly subcutaneous injection
Typical Titration Schedule
Same dosing schedule as Mounjaro: starts at 2.5 mg, with gradual increases every 4 weeks based on tolerability and response. Maintenance doses range from 5 mg to 15 mg weekly.
Note: This is general information only. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosing schedule for your individual situation.
Notable Considerations
Zepbound contains the same active ingredient as Mounjaro but is FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management. Clinical trials (SURMOUNT program) demonstrated substantial weight loss, with some participants achieving greater than 20% body weight reduction.
Choosing the Right Medication
The choice between GLP-1 medications depends on several factors, including your primary treatment goals (diabetes management vs. weight management), insurance coverage, medication availability, and individual response to treatment.
Your healthcare provider will consider your complete medical history, current medications, and personal preferences when recommending a specific GLP-1 medication. It's important to understand that individual responses to these medications can vary significantly.
For information about potential side effects and safety considerations, see our GLP-1 side effects guide. To learn about obtaining a prescription, visit our how to get GLP-1 medications page.