9+ Best Alternatives to Ozempic® for Weight Loss & Diabetes

The increasing demand for Wegovy® and Ozempic® has led many patients and healthcare providers to explore alternatives for weight management and blood sugar control. Medical professionals may recommend several FDA-approved Wegovy® alternatives that may offer similar benefits through various mechanisms of action. 

This guide examines nine alternatives to Wegovy®, including both injectable and oral medications. Each option will be discussed, covering important aspects such as mechanism of action, typical dosage, and clinical effectiveness for weight management or diabetes control. Readers will learn about prescription medications like Ozempic®, Zepbound®, and Mounjaro®, as well as other treatment options that may help meet individual needs.

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Key Takeaways

For patients seeking alternatives to Wegovy® or Ozempic®, there may be several medications that may help support weight management and blood sugar control. Please consult with you licensed healthcare provider for more details. Here are the essential points to understand about Ozempic® alternatives:

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Key Medical Considerations:

• All prescription alternatives require proper medical supervision and evaluation
• Treatment plans should be personalized based on individual health needs
• Regular monitoring is essential for optimal results and safety

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Available Treatment Options:

• Injectable Medications: Including Wegovy®, Zepbound®, and Mounjaro®, which work through similar mechanisms to Ozempic®
• Oral Alternatives: Such as Rybelsus® and Metformin, offering non-injectable options for treatment
• Combination Approaches: Some alternatives may be used alongside other medications for enhanced effectiveness

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Important Safety Information:

• Medical history evaluation is required before starting any alternative medication
• Patients should discuss potential side effects with their healthcare provider
• Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor progress

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Healthcare providers may typically consider several factors when recommending Ozempic® alternatives, including:

1. Patient's medical history and current health status
2. Previous medication experiences and responses
3. Individual treatment goals and preferences
4. Insurance coverage and medication accessibility
5. Lifestyle factors and ability to maintain treatment schedules

These alternatives offer various mechanisms of action and administration methods, allowing healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans to individual patient needs. Each option comes with its own set of benefits and considerations, which will be explored throughout this article.

Switching between medications should always be done under medical supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness. The following sections will provide information about each alternative, including proper dosing, effectiveness, and specific considerations for use.

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Wegovy® (semaglutide)

Wegovy® is approved for weight management. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, this FDA-approved medication demonstrates effectiveness for long-term weight management.

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Wegovy® mechanism of action

Wegovy® works by targeting specific areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. The medication contains semaglutide, which is 94% similar to naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone ^[1]. This similarity allows it to effectively:

• Regulate appetite through brain signaling
• Decrease food intake by slowing stomach emptying
• Support sustainable weight management through hormonal regulation
• Promote fat mass reduction over lean mass loss

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Wegovy® dosage and administration

The medication follows a carefully structured dose-escalation schedule to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Patients begin with a lower Wegovy® dose that gradually increases over time ^[2]: Week 1–4 = 0.25 mg; Week 5–8 = 0.5 mg; Week 9–12 = 1.0 mg; Week 13–16 = 1.7 mg; Week 17+ = 2.4 mg.

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Wegovy® effectiveness for weight loss

Clinical trials have demonstrated Wegovy's® impact on weight management. In a study spanning 68 weeks, participants achieved the following results:

• 50% of patients lost 15% of their body weight ^[3]
• Nearly one-third of participants achieved a 20% reduction in body weight ^[3]
• Participants using only lifestyle changes without Wegovy lost approximately 2.4% of their weight ^[3]

Wegovy's® effectiveness may extend beyond weight loss, showing results in cardiovascular health. Studies indicate that semaglutide treatment led to reduced rates of cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes who were at high risk ^[4].

For optimal results, healthcare providers recommend combining Wegovy® with lifestyle modifications, including a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. The medication requires weekly subcutaneous injections, which can be administered in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm ^[5].

See also our tips for keeping weight off after Wegovy®.

The active ingredient in Wegovy® is also available as compounded semaglutide which could be a more affordable way to get Wegovy® benefits without insurance.

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Zepbound® (tirzepatide)

Recently approved by the FDA, Zepbound® is a prescription medication for weight management through its innovative dual-action mechanism. 

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Zepbound® mechanism of action

Zepbound® functions through a dual-receptor approach, acting as both a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist ^[6]. This mechanism enables the medication to:

• Stimulate insulin release when needed
• Decrease sugar production in the liver
• Slow gastric emptying
• Promote sustained feelings of fullness

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Zepbound® dosage and administration

The medication follows a structured dose-escalation protocol to optimize tolerability and effectiveness: Initial 4 weeks = 2.5 mg; Week 5–8 = 5.0 mg; Following weeks = incremental increases of 2.5 mg every 4 weeks; Maximum does = 15 mg.

Healthcare providers typically adjust dosing based on individual response and tolerability ^[7]. The medication is administered as a weekly subcutaneous injection, which can be given at home after proper training from a healthcare provider.

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Zepbound® weight loss results

Clinical trials have demonstrated effectiveness for weight management. In studies:

• Participants taking the highest dose lost an average of 26% of their body weight over 88 weeks ^[8]
• 93.4% of participants maintained at least 80% of their weight loss during the treatment period ^[8]
• The medication showed 7 times more powerful weight reduction compared to placebo ^[9]

These results were achieved when Zepbound® was used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity ^[9]. The medication is indicated for adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or greater (obesity) or 27 kg/m² or greater (overweight) with at least one weight-related medical condition ^[7].

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Saxenda® (liraglutide)

As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, Saxenda® may offer patients a approach to weight management through daily administration. This FDA-approved medication demonstrates effectiveness when combined with lifestyle modifications.

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Saxenda® mechanism of action

Saxenda® functions as a GLP-1 receptor agonist, sharing 97% homology with natural human GLP-1 ^[10]. The medication's properties include:

• Direct stimulation of POMC neurons
• Inhibition of neuropeptide-Y and Agouti-related peptide neurons
• Reduction in hunger signals
• Enhancement of fullness sensations ^[10]

The medication's extended 13-hour half-life enables once-daily dosing, providing sustained therapeutic effects throughout the day ^[11].

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Saxenda® dosage and administration

The medication follows a structured dose-escalation protocol to optimize tolerability: Week 1 = 0.6 mg; Week 2 = 1.2 mg; Week 3 = 1.8 mg; Week 4 = 2.4 mg; Week 5+ = 3.0 mg.

Patients should inject Saxenda® subcutaneously in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, rotating injection sites daily ^[12]. The maintenance dose of 3.0 mg is typically reached after four weeks of gradual increases ^[12].

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Saxenda® weight loss outcomes

Clinical trials demonstrate weight management results when Saxenda® is combined with lifestyle modifications:

• 50.5% of patients achieved at least 5% weight loss compared to 21.8% with placebo ^[11]
• 26.1% of participants reached 10% or greater weight loss versus 6.3% with placebo ^[11]
• The SCALE Diabetes trial showed a 6% reduction in body weight with the 3.0 mg dose ^[10]

Long-term studies indicate that patients maintaining treatment experienced benefits, with 81.4% maintaining their initial 5% weight loss ^[11]. The medication also showed results in reducing cardiovascular disease risk factors and improving blood pressure control ^[10].

For optimal results, healthcare providers recommend combining Saxenda® with a reduced-calorie diet (approximately 500 kcal/day deficit) and regular physical activity ^[12]. You can also see a detailed comparison of Saxenda® vs semaglutide.

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Mounjaro® (tirzepatide)

Mounjaro® (may also be available as compounded tirzepatide) is available for diabetes management and weight management. 

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Mounjaro® mechanism of action

This medication targets two key hormones involved in blood sugar regulation and appetite control ^[14]. As a "dual-agonist" medication, Mounjaro® activates both:

• GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor for insulin regulation
• GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptor for enhanced metabolic control

This approach enables effective blood sugar management while promoting weight management^[14].

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Mounjaro® dosage for diabetes

The medication follows a structured dose-escalation protocol: Weeks 1–4 = 2.5 mg; Weeks 5–8 = 5.0 mg; Subsequent weeks = incremental increases up to 15 mg.

Healthcare providers carefully monitor patient response, with 90% of people taking Mounjaro® 10-mg plus basal insulin achieving an A1C of under 7% ^[15].

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Mounjaro® effects on blood sugar and weight

Clinical trials demonstrate effectiveness in glycemic control and weight management:

• Achieved A1C reductions of 2.11% at 5 mg weekly dosing compared to 0.86% with placebo ^[16]
• Produced weight loss ranging from 12 lb (5 mg) to 25 lb (15 mg) in studies with or without other diabetes medications ^[15]
• Demonstrated results for weight loss and blood sugar management as compared to other medications in its class ^[17]

The medication's effectiveness may extend beyond numbers, as it helps regulate blood sugar through multiple mechanisms, including insulin production, reduced liver glucose production, and slowed gastric emptying ^[15]. For optimal results, patients should maintain consistent weekly dosing schedules and combine treatment with appropriate lifestyle modifications ^[18].

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Rybelsus® (oral semaglutide)

As an oral GLP-1 receptor agonist, Rybelsus® offers an alternative form of semaglutide for patients who prefer non-injectable diabetes medications. This oral formulation may provide blood sugar management while maintaining the benefits of traditional GLP-1 receptor agonists.

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Rybelsus® mechanism of action

Rybelsus® contains semaglutide in oral form, which shares 94% of the same structure as human GLP-1 ^[19]. The medication works through three primary mechanisms:

• Stimulates insulin release from the pancreas when blood sugar is high
• Reduces glucose production in the liver
• Slows gastric emptying to promote satiety

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Rybelsus® dosage and administration

The medication follows a specific daily dosing protocol: First 30 days = 3 mg; Next 30 days = 7 mg; Maintenance = 14 mg.

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Critical Administration Guidelines:

1. Take on an empty stomach when first waking up
2. Use no more than 4 ounces of plain water
3. Wait at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or taking other medications ^[20]

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Rybelsus® benefits for diabetes management

Clinical trials demonstrate improvements in glycemic control. In the PIONEER program:

• 55-77% of patients achieved HbA1c levels below 7% with the 14 mg dose ^[21]
• Patients with moderate renal impairment showed HbA1c reductions of 1.0% compared to 0.2% with placebo ^[21]
• Treatment satisfaction and convenience were comparable to other oral diabetes medications ^[21]

The medication has shown effectiveness when combined with other diabetes treatments. Studies indicate that patients taking Rybelsus® with basal insulin experienced significant reductions in both HbA1c levels and body weight ^[22]. The medication demonstrated effectiveness regardless of age, gender, race, weight, diabetes duration, or kidney function ^[23].

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Trulicity® (dulaglutide)

Trulicity® is a FDA-approved medication that offers glycemic control and heart health protection through its weekly dosing schedule.

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Trulicity® mechanism of action

Trulicity® contains dulaglutide, which mimics the natural GLP-1 hormone to regulate blood glucose levels. The medication works through multiple pathways:

• Stimulates insulin secretion when blood glucose levels are high
• Reduces glucagon secretion from the liver
• Slows gastric emptying to help control post-meal blood sugar levels

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Trulicity® dosing schedule

The medication follows a structured dose-escalation protocol to optimize effectiveness while minimizing side effects: Starting dose = 0.75 mg; Maintenance dose = 1.5 mg; Maximum dose = 4.5 mg.

Patients should administer Trulicity® once weekly, with doses given on the same day each week ^[24]. If a dose is missed, it can be administered within 72 hours of the scheduled time ^[24].

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Trulicity® effects on blood sugar and cardiovascular health

Clinical trials demonstrate improvements in glycemic control and cardiovascular outcomes:

• Treatment with 0.75mg reduced HbA1c levels by 9% and fasting blood glucose by 16.1% ^[25]
• The 1.5mg dose achieved 10.5% HbA1c reduction and 17.7% decrease in fasting glucose ^[25]
• Demonstrated significant risk reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) across demographic groups ^[26]

The REWIND trial, involving 9,901 participants over 5.4 years, showed remarkable cardiovascular benefits ^[26]. Only 2.4% of patients taking Trulicity® experienced cardiovascular events compared to 2.7% with placebo ^[27]. This makes Trulicity® the first and only type 2 diabetes medicine approved to reduce cardiovascular events in adults both with and without established cardiovascular disease ^[26].

For optimal results, healthcare providers recommend combining Trulicity® with lifestyle modifications, including proper diet and regular exercise. The medication's once-weekly dosing schedule offers convenience while maintaining therapeutic effects throughout the week.

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Victoza® (liraglutide)

This injectable medication demonstrates effectiveness in both blood sugar control and cardiovascular risk reduction.

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Victoza® mechanism of action

Victoza® functions through GLP-1 receptor activation, targeting multiple metabolic pathways to improve glycemic control. The medication's comprehensive approach includes:

• Enhancing insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells when blood sugar is elevated
• Reducing glucagon release to prevent excess glucose production
• Slowing gastric emptying to control post-meal blood sugar levels
• Activating GLP-1 receptors in hypothalamic regions to control feeding behavior ^[28]

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Victoza® dosage for diabetes

The medication follows a carefully structured dose-escalation protocol to optimize tolerability: Week 1 = 0.6 mg; Week 2+ = 1.2 mg; Maximum dose = 1.8 mg.

Patients should administer Victoza® once daily, with the flexibility to inject at any time of day, independent of meals ^[29]. The medication can be injected subcutaneously in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, with rotation of injection sites recommended ^[29].

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Victoza® cardiovascular benefits

The LEADER trial, involving 9,340 participants with type 2 diabetes and high cardiovascular risk, demonstrated cardiovascular protection ^[28]:

• 13% reduction in major cardiovascular events compared to placebo ^[28]
• Cardiovascular death occurred in 4.7% of Victoza® patients versus 6.0% in the placebo group ^[28]
• All-cause mortality decreased to 8.2% compared to 9.6% with placebo ^[28]

Studies show reductions in systolic blood pressure compared to insulin glargine (difference of -4.5 mmHg) ^[28]. For optimal results, healthcare providers recommend combining Victoza® with appropriate lifestyle modifications and monitoring for potential side effects ^[30].

You can also see a detailed comparison of liraglutide vs semaglutide.

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Qsymia® (phentermine-topiramate)

Combining two medications into one treatment option, Qsymia® delivers a approach to weight management through its dual-action formula. This prescription medication offers patients an alternative pathway to achieving their weight management goals.

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Qsymia® mechanism of action

Qsymia® combines phentermine, a centrally acting appetite suppressant, with topiramate, an antiepileptic agent, in an extended-release capsule ^[31]. 

• Decreases appetite through central nervous system modulation

• Enhances feelings of fullness
• Alters the taste of certain foods
• Reduces food intake through multiple metabolic pathways

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Qsymia® dosage and administration

The medication follows a carefully structured dose-escalation protocol to optimize tolerability and effectiveness: Weeks 1–2 = 3.75 mg/23 mg; Weeks 3–12 = 7.5 mg/46 mg; Weeks 13–14 = 11.25 mg/69 mg; Week 15+ = 15 mg/92 mg.

Patients should take Qsymia® once daily in the morning, with or without food ^[32]. Evening doses should be avoided to prevent potential sleep disturbances ^[32].

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Qsymia® weight loss effectiveness

Clinical trials demonstrate weight loss results when combined with lifestyle modifications:

• Patients taking the maximum dose (15/92 mg) lost an average of 11% of their body weight after one year ^[31]
• Those taking the lower dose (7.5/46 mg) achieved 7-8% weight reduction ^[31]
• To achieve 5% weight loss, only 3-4 patients needed treatment at the lower dose, and 2-3 patients at the higher dose for meaningful results ^[31]

The medication is specifically indicated for adults with a BMI of 30 or greater, or 27 or greater with at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol ^[32]. For optimal results, healthcare providers recommend combining Qsymia® with a reduced-calorie diet (approximately 500 kcal/day deficit) and regular physical activity ^[32].

You can also see our detailed comparison of phentermine vs semaglutide.

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Metformin

Metformin may offer a cost-effective approach for patients seeking Ozempic® alternatives.

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Metformin mechanism of action

Metformin works through pathways to improve metabolic health. The medication primarily:

• Decreases glucose production in the liver
• Improves insulin sensitivity in muscle tissue
• Reduces glucose absorption in the intestines
• Modifies gut microbiota composition

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Metformin dosage for diabetes

Healthcare providers typically recommend a gradual dose escalation to optimize tolerability: Starting dose = 500 mg once daily; Titration = 500 mg increments weekly; Maintenance = 1000–2000 mg; Maximum dose = 2500 mg.

Patients should take metformin with meals to minimize gastrointestinal effects. The medication is available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations ^[33].

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Metformin benefits and potential for weight loss

Clinical studies demonstrate benefits for both diabetes management and weight control. The Diabetes Prevention Program trial showed results:

• Participants achieved an average weight loss of 2.1 kg during the initial 2.8-year follow-up ^[34]
• Approximately 30% of participants lost more than 5% of their body weight in the first year ^[34]
• Long-term users maintained an average 2.5 kg weight loss over time ^[34]

A recent real-world study of patients without diabetes demonstrated the following results, with participants losing an average of 5.8 kg compared to a 0.8 kg gain in the control group ^[34]. The medication shows particular effectiveness in patients with higher BMI levels, with studies indicating optimal results at doses higher than 1,500 mg daily for at least 6 months ^[34].

Beyond weight management, metformin offers health benefits, including potential cardiovascular advantages and improved insulin sensitivity ^[35]. The medication's effectiveness may increase when combined with lifestyle modifications, including proper diet and regular exercise ^[33].

You can also see our detailed comparison of metformin vs semaglutide.

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How to Switch from Ozempic® to an Alternative

Transitioning between medications requires careful medical supervision and a structured approach to ensure safety and effectiveness. Healthcare providers follow specific protocols when helping patients switch from Ozempic® to alternative medications.

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Guidance on the Best Way to Switch

Medical professionals recommend a systematic approach when transitioning to Ozempic® alternatives:

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Initial Assessment:

• Evaluate current medication effectiveness
• Review medical history and contraindications
• Check insurance coverage and reimbursement options

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Medication Selection:

• Choose appropriate alternative based on patient needs
• Consider current Ozempic® dosage
• Review potential drug interactions

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Transition Timeline:

• Schedule the switch when the next Ozempic® dose would be due
• Begin new medication at appropriate starting dose
• Follow medication-specific titration schedules

According to healthcare surveys, more than 75% of patients learn about medication coverage changes at the pharmacy counter ^[36]. To avoid delays, patients should verify insurance coverage before initiating the switch.

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Safety Precautions

During the transition period, healthcare providers emphasize several critical safety measures: blood glucose readings, tracking glycemic control, medication responses, monitoring effectiveness, side effects, documenting tolerability, weight changes, assessing treatment impact.

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Key Monitoring Considerations:

• More frequent blood glucose monitoring may be necessary during the adjustment period ^[37]
• Healthcare providers should document all changes in patient charts ^[37]
• Regular follow-up appointments are essential to assess medication effectiveness

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For patients switching to Rybelsus®, the transition is often straightforward, but specific conditions may affect eligibility:

• Only available for patients taking 0.5 mg Ozempic® dose ^[36]
• Not suitable for those requiring higher Ozempic® doses (1 mg or 2 mg) ^[36]
• May not be appropriate for patients taking Ozempic® for cardiovascular benefits ^[36]

When transitioning to Mounjaro®, patients typically start with a lower dose and gradually increase based on individual needs ^[36]. The starting dose (2.5 mg) should be readily available, though higher doses may face availability constraints through June 2024 ^[36].

Healthcare providers emphasize individualizing the switching approach based on patient-specific factors, including previous medication experiences and responses ^[38]. Regular communication between patients and healthcare providers ensures optimal outcomes during the transition period.

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Final Thoughts

There are FDA-approved alternatives available for patients seeking Ozempic® substitutes. These medications demonstrate significant effectiveness through rigorous clinical trials, ranging from injectable GLP-1 receptor agonists like Wegovy® and Zepbound® to oral options such as Rybelsus® and Metformin. Each alternative provides unique benefits, allowing healthcare providers to match treatments with specific patient needs while maintaining high standards of safety and efficacy.

Patient success with these semaglutide alternatives depends on proper medical supervision and individualized treatment approaches. Healthcare providers carefully evaluate factors such as medical history, current health status, and treatment goals when recommending specific medications. Patients should always consult their healthcare provider before starting or switching between medications, ensuring appropriate monitoring and support throughout their treatment journey. These evidence-based alternatives represent valuable options for patients managing weight or blood sugar concerns under proper medical guidance.

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FAQ

1. Which is safer, Ozempic® or Trulicity®?

Both Ozempic® and Trulicity® demonstrate comparable profiles as FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonists. Clinical data shows they share similar mild side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite.

Both medications may carry similar side effect risks, including thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, and kidney damage ^[39]. The choice between these medications often depends on individual patient factors rather than safety concerns alone.

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2. What is the closest supplement to Ozempic®?

While no over-the-counter supplement may exactly replicates Ozempic's® effects, some natural compounds show promising results in blood sugar management:

• Berberine has demonstrated modest effects on blood glucose levels, though research indicates its effects are significantly less potent than prescription medications ^[36]
• Natural compounds may boost GLP-1 levels, but current evidence suggests their effects are minimal compared to prescription alternatives ^[36]

Healthcare providers emphasize that FDA-approved medications remain the most reliable options for managing blood sugar and weight effectively ^[40].

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3. What are common side effects of Ozempic®?

Clinical trials have documented several common side effects of Ozempic®, with gastrointestinal issues being most prevalent:

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Most Common Side Effects:

• Nausea affects approximately 20% of patients ^[41]
• Vomiting occurs in about 10% of users ^[41]
• Abdominal pain is reported by roughly 7% of patients ^[41]
• Diarrhea affects approximately 8% of users ^[41]
• Constipation occurs in about 5% of patients ^[41]

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Less Common But Notable Effects:

• Heartburn or acid reflux affects about 2% of users ^[41]
• Injection site reactions occur in less than 1% of patients ^[41]
• Fatigue and headaches may occur ^[41]

For most patients, these side effects are mild to moderate and often improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication ^[41]. Healthcare providers typically recommend starting with lower doses and gradually increasing them to minimize side effects ^[42].

Patients should immediately contact their healthcare provider if they experience severe abdominal pain, vision changes, or symptoms of allergic reactions ^[42]. Regular monitoring and open communication with healthcare providers help ensure optimal treatment outcomes while managing potential side effects effectively.

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Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medications for safety, quality, or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluation are required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not be relied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blog is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns, including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog.

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References 

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8. Lilly Investors. Lilly’s Zepbound^TM (tirzepatide) achieved additional 6.7% weight loss following a 36-week open-label lead-in period, for a total mean weight loss of 26.0% from study entry over 88 weeks | Eli Lilly and Company. Eli Lilly and Company. Published December 11, 2023. Accessed November 11, 2024. https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/lillys-zepboundtm-tirzepatide-achieved-additional-67-weight-loss

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9. Eli Lilly and Company. Clinical Data, Safety & Study Design | Zepbound (tirzepatide). zepbound.lilly.com. Published 2024. Accessed November 11, 2024. https://zepbound.lilly.com/hcp/clinical-data

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12. WCG Center Watch. FDA Approved Drugs: Saxenda (liraglutide). centerwatch.com. Published 2024. Accessed November 11, 2024. https://www.centerwatch.com/directories/1067-fda-approved-drugs/listing/4170-saxenda-liraglutide-rdna-origin-injection

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13. Willson A. Ozempic Alternatives: 5 Other Options for Weight Loss. Ro. Published October 1, 2024. Accessed November 11, 2024. https://ro.co/weight-loss/ozempic-alternatives/

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14. Rivera, MD M. How Does Mounjaro Work? The Ratio. Published May 13, 2024. Accessed November 11, 2024. https://www.theratiobybodymath.com/blog/how-does-mounjaro-work

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15. Lilly Company. What is Mounjaro® for Adults with Type 2 Diabetes | Mounjaro® (tirzepatide). mounjaro.lilly.com. Published 2024. Accessed November 11, 2024. https://mounjaro.lilly.com/what-is-mounjaro

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17. Pelc C. Mounjaro may aid weight loss, lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. Medicalnewstoday.com. Published October 6, 2023. Accessed November 11, 2024. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mounjaro-may-aid-weight-loss-lower-blood-sugar-in-people-with-type-2-diabetes

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19. Carter KD. Tirzepatide’s Mechanism of Action: How Does Tirzepatide Work? GoodRx. Published August 2024. Accessed November 11, 2024. https://www.goodrx.com/classes/gip-receptor-glp-1-receptor-agonists/tirzepatide-mechanism-of-action

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20. Pope C. What is Rybelsus used for and how does it work? Drugs.com. Published March 30, 2023. Accessed November 11, 2024. https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/rybelsus-work-3545198/

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21. Meier JJ. Efficacy of Semaglutide in a Subcutaneous and an Oral Formulation. Frontiers in Endocrinology. 2021;12. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fendo.2021.645617

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22. HaVy Ngo-Hamilton, Pharm.D. Semaglutide Tablets vs Injection: Which Is Best? Buzzrx. Published March 26, 2024. Accessed November 11, 2024. https://www.buzzrx.com/blog/semaglutide-tablets-vs-injection

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23. Ishver A. How Does Rybelsus Control Type 2 Diabetes? WebMD. Published July 12, 2024. Accessed November 11, 2024. https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/rybelsus-type-2-diabetes

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