Wegovy® is Novo Nordisk’s brand-name semaglutide, FDA-approved in 2021 for chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥ 30) or overweight (BMI ≥ 27) with at least one weight-related condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. In 2022, it was also approved for adolescents 12 and older with obesity. It is the FDA-approved semaglutide product specifically indicated for weight loss — distinct from Ozempic®, which is approved for type 2 diabetes. Full prescribing info at wegovy.com.

In the STEP 1 clinical trial, adults without diabetes lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight (around 34 pounds) over 68 weeks on 2.4 mg weekly semaglutide plus lifestyle intervention, compared to 2.4% on placebo. Nearly one in three participants lost 20% or more. Results depend on adherence, diet, physical activity, individual biology, and how long you stay on treatment. Results may vary.

Both are semaglutide made by Novo Nordisk, but they’re approved for different uses and dosed differently. Wegovy® is FDA-approved for chronic weight management at doses up to 2.4 mg weekly. Ozempic® is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes at doses up to 2 mg weekly. If you’re seeking FDA-approved semaglutide for weight loss specifically, Wegovy® is the indicated product. Your provider will determine which is clinically appropriate for you.

Wegovy® is a once-weekly subcutaneous injection delivered by a pre-filled, single-use autoinjector pen. Inject into your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm — same day each week, with or without food. The dose is titrated up over 16–20 weeks (0.25 mg → 0.5 mg → 1 mg → 1.7 mg → 2.4 mg) to minimize side effects. Store unused pens in the refrigerator.

Wegovy® carries a boxed warning for thyroid C-cell tumors — 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). Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, and fatigue, most pronounced during titration. Serious but rare risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, kidney injury, and increased heart rate. Not for use during pregnancy. See our Important Safety Information page for the full list.

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