Is Ozempic® a Semaglutide? What to Know Before You Start

What Is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which means it mimics a natural hormone involved in:

• Regulating blood sugar
  
• Supporting insulin production
  
• Slowing gastric emptying
  
• Signaling satiety to the brain
  
  

Depending on the formulation and dosage, semaglutide may be prescribed for different health goals. The most commonly known brand names include:

• Ozempic® – FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes
  
• Wegovy® – FDA-approved for chronic weight management
  
• Rybelsus® – Oral semaglutide tablet approved for type 2 diabetes

‍

{{primary-cta}}

‍

What Is Ozempic® Approved to Treat?

Ozempic® is FDA-approved only for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is prescribed to help lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes and known heart disease.

It is not approved by the FDA for weight loss in people without type 2 diabetes, even though some people may experience weight changes while taking it. Any discussion about using semaglutide for weight management should focus on Wegovy®, the formulation specifically approved for that purpose.

You can view Ozempic®’s official label and indications on the FDA website.

‍

Is Wegovy the Same as Ozempic®?

Wegovy and Ozempic® both contain semaglutide, but they differ in:

‍

‍

In short: same molecule, different purpose. Your licensed provider will determine which, if any, is medically appropriate for you.

‍

What If Brand-Name Options Are Unavailable?

Licensed healthcare providers on the Eden platform can determine which version of semaglutide is most suitable for your needs, taking into account availability and your medical history. If prescribed, the medication is filled and shipped by a state-licensed pharmacy.

Eden does not create, compound, or dispense medications. Instead, Eden helps individuals connect with independent, licensed healthcare providers who evaluate your eligibility for treatment and coordinate with pharmacies as needed.

For questions about medication access or treatment options, your provider is the best source of accurate, personalized guidance.

‍

{{primary-cta}}

‍

How Do I Know if Semaglutide Is Right for Me?

The only way to determine if semaglutide is appropriate for your goals is through a personalized consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. Factors they may consider include:

• Your BMI
  
• Your personal and family medical history
  
• Whether you have type 2 diabetes or other weight-related conditions
  
• Your current medications and lifestyle
  
  

If semaglutide is prescribed, it is typically paired with guidance on nutrition, physical activity, and follow-up care to monitor progress and side effects.

‍

What Are the Possible Side Effects?

Side effects may vary based on the formulation and dosage. Common side effects reported in clinical trials include:

• Nausea
  
• Diarrhea or constipation
  
• Bloating
  
• Fatigue
  
• Mild abdominal discomfort
  
  

Rare but serious risks, such as pancreatitis or thyroid concerns, have been observed in some individuals. Always speak with your provider about your health history and any side effects you experience.

‍

{{primary-cta}}

‍

Eden’s Role in Your Semaglutide Journey

Eden is a digital health platform, not a pharmacy, drug manufacturer, or medical provider. Eden’s role is to help individuals access licensed, independent healthcare providers who can assess your health goals and determine whether semaglutide is appropriate.

If a prescription is issued, medications are fulfilled through state-licensed compounding pharmacies and delivered directly to your home.

Eden makes access simple, but all treatment decisions are made between you and your licensed provider.

‍

Conclusion

Yes, Ozempic® is a semaglutide, but it’s not the only one, and it’s not the one approved specifically for weight loss. That distinction belongs to Wegovy®, which contains a higher dose of semaglutide and is approved for chronic weight management in people with qualifying health conditions.

Understanding these differences can help you ask the right questions when speaking with a licensed healthcare provider. If you're considering semaglutide, Eden can help connect you to care that fits your goals, on your schedule.

Ready to talk to a provider? Start your consultation with a licensed healthcare professional and explore whether semaglutide is right for your needs.

‍