GLP-1 Medications Compared
Evidence-based comparison of GLP-1 receptor agonists for diabetes and weight management
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. GLP-1 medications are prescription-only and require medical supervision.
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 receptor agonists are medications that mimic glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone your body naturally produces to regulate blood sugar and appetite. These medications were initially developed for type 2 diabetes but have shown significant benefits for weight management.
Medication Comparison
Semaglutide
Ozempic, Wegovy
GLP-1 Receptor Agonist
Once weekly injection
14.9%
of body weightTirzepatide
Mounjaro, Zepbound
GLP-1/GIP Dual Agonist
Once weekly injection
15-21%
of body weightOral Semaglutide
Wegovy tablets, Rybelsus
Oral GLP-1 Receptor Agonist
Once daily tablet
13.6%
of body weightOrforglipron
Foundayo
Oral GLP-1 Receptor Agonist (non-peptide)
Once daily tablet, no food or water restrictions
~11%
of body weightLiraglutide
Victoza, Saxenda
GUIDE IN DEVELOPMENTGLP-1 Receptor Agonist
Daily injection
8-9%
of body weightDulaglutide
Trulicity
GUIDE IN DEVELOPMENTGLP-1 Receptor Agonist
Once weekly injection
3-5%
of body weightImportant Clinical Context
*Weight loss percentages are averages from clinical trials. Individual results vary widely based on genetics, adherence, lifestyle factors, starting weight, and underlying health conditions. Some people lose more, some less, and some experience minimal weight loss.
All clinical trial participants also received lifestyle counseling (diet and exercise guidance). These medications work best when combined with sustainable lifestyle changes.
Key Differences to Consider
GLP-1 vs. Dual Agonist
Traditional GLP-1 medications (like semaglutide and liraglutide) target only the GLP-1 receptor. Tirzepatide is a dual agonist that targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, which may explain its higher average weight loss in clinical trials.
Dosing Frequency
Most modern GLP-1 medications are once-weekly injections, making them more convenient than daily options like liraglutide (Saxenda). Weekly dosing may improve adherence for some people.
FDA Approval & Insurance
Some medications are approved only for diabetes, while others have separate weight management approvals. Insurance coverage varies significantly—plans often cover diabetes formulations but not weight loss versions.
Side Effect Profiles
All GLP-1 medications can cause gastrointestinal side effects (nausea, diarrhea, constipation), especially during dose escalation. Side effect severity varies by individual and medication. Our side effects guide covers what to expect and when to seek care.
Injections vs. Pills
Two FDA-approved oral GLP-1s are now available for weight management: the Wegovy tablet, launched in the US in January 2026, and Lilly's Foundayo (orforglipron), approved in April 2026. Both remove the cold-chain and injection barriers, though trial weight loss for orforglipron is lower than for the injectables.
Brand-Name vs. Compounded
Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide contain the same active molecules but are not FDA-approved and are never covered by insurance. Manufacturer self-pay pricing has fallen enough that this is no longer purely a cost decision — see our comparison.
Go Deeper
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