No. Ozempic® is FDA-approved by Novo Nordisk specifically for type 2 diabetes — to improve blood sugar control and reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes and established heart disease. It is not FDA-approved for weight loss. Licensed providers sometimes prescribe it off-label for weight management because semaglutide (the active ingredient) produces significant appetite suppression. Wegovy® is the FDA-approved semaglutide product indicated for chronic weight management. Full prescribing info at ozempic.com.

Both contain semaglutide and are made by Novo Nordisk, but they’re approved for different uses and dosed differently. Ozempic® is approved for type 2 diabetes at doses up to 2 mg weekly. Wegovy® is approved for chronic weight management at higher doses up to 2.4 mg weekly. If weight loss is your goal and you don’t have type 2 diabetes, Wegovy® is the FDA-approved option. Your provider will help determine which is clinically appropriate for you.

Ozempic® is a once-weekly subcutaneous injection delivered by a pre-filled, multi-dose pen. You dial your dose, press the button, and inject into your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm — same day each week, with or without food. Each pen contains multiple doses. Store unused pens in the refrigerator; once in use, the pen can be kept at room temperature for 56 days. Your provider will demonstrate proper technique during onboarding.

Ozempic® carries a boxed warning for thyroid C-cell tumors based on rodent studies — it is contraindicated in anyone with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). The most common side effects are nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and constipation, usually during dose titration. Serious but rare risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, kidney injury, and vision changes in diabetic retinopathy patients. Read the full Important Safety Information page before starting.

Both contain semaglutide as the active ingredient. Ozempic® is Novo Nordisk’s FDA-approved brand-name product, manufactured to rigorous pharmaceutical standards and sold in pre-filled pens. Compounded semaglutide is prepared by U.S. state-licensed compounding pharmacies, is not individually FDA-approved, and is typically more affordable. Both are legal when prescribed by a licensed provider. Your provider will walk you through the trade-offs during your visit so you can make an informed decision.

Ozempic® has a high list price — typically over $1,000 per month at retail without insurance. With commercial insurance, copays vary widely, and Novo Nordisk offers savings cards for eligible patients with diabetes. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover Ozempic® for weight loss. If cost is a barrier and you’re seeking weight management, your provider can discuss whether compounded semaglutide is a more affordable option for your situation.