Both contain semaglutide, which is a GLP-1 analogue and are produced by Novo Nordisk pharmaceutical company based in Denmark. Ozempic® and Wegovy® are delivered as weekly injections. GLP or glucagon like peptide is a hormone produced by the intestine in response to food intake and helps in
- Controlling appetite
- Controlling blood sugar
- Control intestinal movement
As both medications are GLP-1 analogues, they have similar side effects and safety profile.
Ozempic®
Ozempic® contains semaglutide and is licensed for blood glucose and weight management in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The starting dose is 0.25mg and is gradually titrated up to 1mg.
Ozempic® is not licensed for weight loss in people who do not have type 2 diabetes.
SUSTAIN research study showed that in patients with type 2 diabetes at high cardiovascular risk, the rate of first occurrence of death from cardiovascular causes, nonfatal heart attack and stroke was significantly lower in those receiving Ozempic® compared to those patients receiving placebo.
To read more about the benefits of Ozempic®, please click this link: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmoa1607141
Wegovy
Wegovy has been approved by FDA for chronic weight management along with life style interventions. The top dose of this weekly injection which contains semaglutide is 2.4mg.
In the STEP 1 study, participants who were overweight or obese and were given 2.4 mg of semaglutide once weekly injection in addition to lifestyle intervention had a sustained, clinically relevant reduction in body weight.
For more details on the research click this link: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
We still do not know if Wegovy®, which is higher dose of semaglutide could be used in people with Type 2 diabetes who do respond to Ozempic® 1mg.
Please visit our site as we will be updating as and when research outcomes are released.
Simplyweight’s Specialist Online Weight Loss Plan has been designed to bring decades of clinical experience to people at an affordable price. To learn more, start your 7-day free trial today: https://app.simplyweight.in/subscribe/free-trial
Author
Dr C. Rajeswaran FRCP(UK);MSc
Consultant Physician
Obesity, Diabetes & Endocrinology
