What’s the difference: Ozempic vs Wegovy vs Mounjaro

Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro are all popular medications that can be used to treat different conditions. They have recently received news and social media attention due to their high effectiveness as well as some shortages. Here is what you need to know about these medications.

Key Takeaways:

• These medications belong to a class of drugs known as glucagon‐like peptide (GLP‐1s) and insulinotropic polypeptide (GIPs)
• GLP-1s and/or GIPs can be effective for indications such as blood glucose regulation, weight loss when medically necessary, and potentially for lowering cardiovascular risks
• Medications in this group include the following: Saxenda (liraglutide), Victoza (liraglutide), Ozempic (semaglutide), Wegovy (semaglutide), Mounjaro (tirzepadite), Trulicity (dulaglutide) and Rybelsus (semaglutide)
• Ozempic vs Mounjaro vs Wegovy in Canada [/caption]

Approved uses:

Each medication has different approved uses by Health Canada. All treatments prescribed by a clinician must medically appropriate and based on clinical evidence. The primary indications for these medications approved by Health Canada are as following:

• Semaglutide: Approved for Weight Loss and Type 2 Diabetes in Canada
• Tirzepatide: Approved for Weight Loss and Type 2 Diabetes in Canada
• Liraglutide: Approved for Weight Loss and Type 2 Diabetes in Canada
• Dulaglutide: Approved for Type 2 Diabetes in Canada

Eligibility:

• All medications that require a prescription require an evaluation by a medical practitioner
• Generally, to qualify for any weight-loss medication, individuals should have a BMI of over 30
• Other factors such as blood glucose, diabetes or prediabetes may also be taken into consideration by a health care provider to determine eligibility for weight loss medications if the patient BMI is between 27 and 30

Differences in How Wegovy and Ozempic Injection Pens Work:

The mechanisms of Wegovy and Ozempic injection pens are distinct in their design and usage.

Wegovy Injection Pen

• Single-Dose System: Each pen is prefilled with a fixed dose.
• Disposable: After administering all the doses, the pen is discarded.

Ozempic Injection Pen

• Multiple-Dose System: The 0.25mg/0.5mg pen contains several doses, allowing for multiple uses and at different strengths.
• Adjustable Dosage: Users must dial up their specific dose before each injection.

These design differences cater to varying needs, providing flexibility in medication administration.

Are Wegovy and Ozempic the Same Medication?

Both Wegovy and Ozempic are once-weekly injections featuring the active ingredient semaglutide. This has led to some confusion, but they are not interchangeable medications.

While they share the same foundational component, there are crucial differences between the two. Let’s break it down:

Key Differences

1. Dosage
   • Wegovy: Typically prescribed at a higher dose aimed specifically at weight management.
   • Ozempic: Usually given at a lower dose primarily for managing blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes.
2. Approval and Usage:
   • Wegovy: Approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight who have at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure.
   • Ozempic: Approved to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes, alongside diet and exercise.
3. Packaging and Administration:
   • Dosage forms may vary, with adjustments in the pen injectors and the concentration of semaglutide differing slightly to align more with their specific uses.
4. Availability:
   • Both medications have faced shortages due to high demand, but their availability can differ based on regional supply chains and manufacturing volumes.
5. Side Effects and Monitoring
   • Similar side effects are possible given the same active ingredient; however, the higher doses in Wegovy might lead to a different intensity of gastrointestinal side effects compared to Ozempic.

Similar But Not Identical

Understanding these nuances helps in appreciating why these medications, although involving the same active component, are prescribed for different health conditions and are not simply interchangeable. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best and most appropriate treatment for your specific condition.

How do they work:

• GLP-1s and GIPs work in similar mechanisms, by imitating hormones called incretins which are naturally produced in our digestive system
• Incretins are used by the body to regulate insulin but can also help individuals feel satiety and fullness
• When GLP-1s and GIPs are used, they imitate incretins to help you improve your blood glucose, as well as reduce appetite and cravings, and feel full for longer

Which medications are the most effective:

• Tirzepatide and Semaglutide can lead to the most significant weight loss based on clinical data
• Tirzepatide seems to be more effective, but additional clinical research and data is required to confirm this. An ongoing clinical trial is expected to be completed by 2025.
• In clinical trials, Tirzepatide at the highest dose, lead to over 15% of average body weight over 18 months, with a third losing 20% of body weight
• Mounjaro is a little less convenient to use because it is currently available in vial format in Canada, and not in an automatic injector pen

Common Side Effects of Wegovy and Ozempic

Both Wegovy and Ozempic, medications used for managing weight and blood sugar levels, often cause digestion-related side effects.

Frequently Reported Side Effects:

• Nausea: Feeling queasy and unsettled stomach.
• Vomiting: Episodes of throwing up are common, especially with higher doses.
• Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools can occur.
• Stomach Pain: Discomfort or cramps in the abdominal area.

Dosage and Frequency Details:

• Ozempic Dosage: Typically ranges from 0.5 mg to 2 mg taken once a week. Higher doses, such as the 2 mg weekly, show a slightly higher incidence of side effects compared to the 1 mg dose.
• Wegovy Dosage: Administered at a higher dosage of 2.4 mg weekly. Clinical trials have shown that side effects are more common at this higher dosage compared to lower dosages.

Side Effects and Dosage Adjustments:

• Initial Treatment Phase: Side effects are more prevalent during the early stages of treatment and when increasing the dose.
• Gradual Increase: To minimize these side effects, healthcare providers typically start with a lower dose and gradually increase it over time.
• Adaptation Over Time: Many of these side effects tend to diminish as the body adjusts to the medication.

By understanding these common side effects and how dosages are managed, patients can better prepare for and mitigate discomfort associated with these medications.

Are Side Effects More Likely with Wegovy or Ozempic?

When considering the side effects of Wegovy and Ozempic, it’s essential to note the differences in dosage and resulting impacts on the body.

Common Side Effects:

Both medications are known for causing digestion-related side effects such as:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain

Dosage Differences:

Ozempic is typically prescribed at dosages ranging from 0.5 mg to 2 mg once weekly. In clinical studies, the side effects reported with the 2 mg dose were similar to those at the 1 mg dose, although slightly higher in frequency.

On the other hand, Wegovy is administered at a higher dosage of 2.4 mg weekly. Clinical trials indicated that people taking 2.4 mg of this medication reported side effects more frequently compared to those taking a lower dose like 1 mg of semaglutide.

Initial Phase and Dosage Increases:

Side effects for both medications are usually more pronounced at the beginning of the treatment and during dosage increases. To mitigate these effects, healthcare providers typically start patients on a lower dose and gradually increase it.

Conclusion:

Given its higher dosage, side effects are more likely with Wegovy compared to Ozempic. However, individual reactions can vary, and side effects often decrease as the body adjusts to the medication.

By understanding these differences, you can make a more informed decision while consulting with your healthcare provider.

How do I find which medication is right for me?

• Age: All medications are approved for use in adults but some may be suitable for children above 10 years old
• Underlying health: Existing health conditions, medications or risks (e.g. heart disease) may be an important factor to determine the right medication for you
• Preferences: Oral tablets vs injections may be considered depending on preferences.
• Frequency: Some medications require daily administrations, while many injectable options are once-weekly injections.
• Affordability: These treatments can  be expensive, and insurance coverages vary. It’s best to consider the cost of the treatment to ensure you can continue.
• Tolerance: Some individuals may not tolerate certain treatments.

Can You Switch from Ozempic to Wegovy?

Switching between Ozempic and Wegovy isn’t straightforward. These medications, while similar, are not considered interchangeable.

Here’s why:

1. Diabetes vs. Weight Loss: If you’re using Ozempic to manage Type 2 diabetes, transitioning to Wegovy may not be an option for your provincial or private drug insurance plan. Wegovy isn’t approved for diabetes care and similarly, it wouldn’t be covered for diabetic care.
2. Different Approvals: Although both drugs can support weight loss, they have different official uses. Ozempic is primarily for diabetes control, whereas Wegovy is specifically for weight management.
3. Off-Label Use: There are cases where Ozempic is prescribed off-label for weight loss. In these scenarios, your healthcare provider might consider switching you to Wegovy, especially if the focus is strictly on weight reduction.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen to ensure it aligns with your health needs and goals.

What if a medication hasn’t worked for me in the past?

• Cloudcure’s medical team provides care beyond a single hyped medication or one-size-fits-all-prescribing
• We can help find effective treatment options even if you have not had experienced successfully losing weight or not tolerated a medication due to side effects, or hit a plateau after losing some weight initially
• Speak to your Cloudcure clinician about your medical history to help find the right treatment for you

What to Discuss with Your Healthcare Provider About These Medications

When considering medications for weight management or diabetes, it’s crucial to have a detailed conversation with your healthcare provider to ensure the best possible treatment plan. Here are key points to cover:

1. Medical History
   • Existing Conditions: Share any chronic conditions you have, such as heart disease or high blood pressure.
   • Medications: List all current medications and supplements to assess potential interactions.
2. Eligibility and Suitability
   • Effectiveness: Ask whether these medications are effective for your specific health situation.
   • Personalization: Determine if the medication can be tailored to your needs.
3. Potential Side Effects:
   • Short-term Effects: Understand the common immediate side effects.
   • Long-term Risks: Inquire about any long-term health implications.
4. Lifestyle Impact:
   • Diet and Exercise: Discuss how these medications will interact with your current diet and exercise regimen.
   • Daily Routine: Consider how taking these medications might affect your daily life and well-being.
5. Follow-up and Monitoring:
   • Frequency: Ask how often you’ll need follow-up appointments.
   • Tests: Find out if additional blood tests or screenings will be required.

Each of these elements will provide a comprehensive understanding, helping you and your healthcare provider make an informed decision.

Variance in insurance coverage:

• There may be differences in insurance coverages for medications, based on the indication they are approved for
• For instance, some insurers and providers may not approve drugs indicated only for T2 Diabetes treatment, when prescribed off-label for weight loss (e.g. Ozempic or Mounjaro)
• In addition, some insurance plans, employers or providers may require pre-authorization prior to providing coverage for these medications

Availability in Canada:

• As of late 2023, the following medications are commercially available in Canada: Ozempic, Saxenda, Victoza, Trulicity, Rybelsus, Mounjaro
• The following medications are not commercially available from their manufacturers in Canada at this time: Wegovy
• There is currently a shortage of Ozempic and Wegovy expected until spring 2024 in Canada
• It is important to consider availably of medications before starting a treatment

How to get weight loss medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Trulicity and Saxenda in Canada:

• Cloudcure’s programs combine lifestyle change with effective medical treatment 
• Anyone can join Cloudcure’s programs after completing an initial eligibility quiz.
• From there, a Cloudcure clinician will determine if the treatment is appropriate, safe and effective for you
• Cloudcure’s team can also assist with insurance support, including direct billing for any drug claims

What else should I know?

• Medications can be highly effective tool when used appropriately, safely and and under the guidance of a medical professional
• However most medications in the GLP-1 group have been studied for effectiveness in the presence of lifestyle change including nutrition and exercise
• Cloudcure’s unique approach is based on a curriculum that can help shift your mindset, build sustainable health habits such as nutrition and daily movement, reduce stress and improve mental and emotional health

What are some red flags when looking for treatment providers?

When looking for effective treatment options, watch out for some of these red flags in any providers:

• Prescription without speaking to a care provider: Don’t accept an online prescription from a medical practitioner who has never met you by phone or video. All Cloudcure members meet face-to-face with a licensed medical practitioner to review their lab work, discuss medications and accept a treatment plan.
• No comprehensive plan for sustainable change: GLP-1s are effective but they still require lifestyle change to be effective. Without these changes, you are not likely to get the full medical benefit of the treatments.
• Prescribing hyped medications as a quick-fix: Not all patients will respond to each medication. While GLP-1 medications can work, some patients may not tolerate certain medications. In addition, some medications may not be effective for individuals given our unique biological differences. Our team can provide treatment options beyond a single hyped drug, that can provide effective weight-loss
• No expertise in obesity medicine: Does your provider have expertise in weight-loss medicine or do they offer everything from sexual health to acne treatments? Some providers may not be able to support you if you experience side-effects, lack of effectiveness or hit a plateau, so it’s important to consider the support available.

Questions?

Ask your Cloudcure care team or your primary care provider if you have any questions, or find out if you are eligible today.

The Cloudcure Learning Hub contains educational content providing balanced information on diseases and treatments.  The information presented is of a general nature and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not attempt to begin, modify or stop any treatments without professional medical advice. If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your doctor, primary healthcare provider or Cloudcure medical practitioner.