Ozempic vs Semaglutide: Are They The Same? (2025)

What are the similarities and differences between ozempic vs semaglutide? Learn more.

Originally designed to treat type 2 diabetes, Ozempic has taken the world by storm thanks to its amazing ability to help with weight loss management. 

Celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg, and Amy Schumer have all dipped their toes into the world of Ozempic, swearing by its effectiveness in helping them maintain a healthy weight, and feel more confident in their own body. 

As Oprah Winfrey shared:

“The fact that there’s a medically approved prescription for managing weight and staying healthier, in my lifetime, feels like relief, like redemption, like a gift, and not something to hide behind and once again be ridiculed for. I’m absolutely done with the shaming from other people and particularly myself.”

Image source: today.com

However, while Ozempic is the most known brand of GLP-1 receptor agonists – a class of drugs that decrease blood sugar and suppress appetite – it is not the only medication that can help you achieve your weight loss goals, and finally shred the last pounds.

If you’ve been researching this topic, you have probably already heard about semaglutide. But is Ozempic the same as semaglutide, and what exactly are the key differences? And most importantly, which option is better for you?

Let’s deep dive into everything you need to know about Ozempic vs semaglutide:

Is Ozempic The Same As Semaglutide?

So, Ozempic vs semaglutide – are they the same?

The short answer is yes, Ozempic is the same as semaglutide because both use the same active ingredient, which is a GLP-1 receptor agonist used to treat type 2 diabetes. 

However, they are not exactly the same – Ozempic is the brand name for a medication that contains semaglutide, developed by Novo Nordisk to improve blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes via subcutaneous injection.

Semaglutide, however, is also available in other forms and under different brand names with varying uses. In contrast to Ozempic, whose main purpose is to treat type 2 diabetes, other semaglutide brands are focused specifically on weight loss management at higher doses.

Is Ozempic The Same As Compounded Semaglutide?

When comparing Ozempic vs semaglutide, you might have heard another term – compounded semaglutide. We already know the difference between Ozempic vs semaglutide, but where does its compounded version fit into the picture?

As we mentioned earlier, Ozempic is manufactured by Novo Nordisk, and its main use is the treatment of type 2 diabetes. This medication is precisely formulated in controlled, consistent doses, and it is available as a pre-filled, disposal, single-use pen for weekly injections.

Compounded semaglutide, on another hand, is not a one-size-fits-all. Instead, it involves creating small, customized batches of the medication to meet your specific needs, as opposed to using cookie-cutter doses in commercially available medications.

This means that the doses may vary and adjust to your changing needs, which makes the medication particularly effective if you are looking to reap its benefits for weight loss. 

At FancyMeds, we create our compounded semaglutide in an FDA-monitored, state-licensed pharmacy, under the supervision of a board-certified pharmacist. We only use FDA-approved ingredients, and test in third-party labs to ensure the highest quality and safety of our products.

This meticulous approach guarantees that each formulation meets strict standards for purity, and efficacy, providing you with reliable and customized medication options to suit your individual health needs.

And the best part? Our products contain the same active ingredients as Ozempic, but are much more affordable! So, when comparing Ozempic vs semaglutide, you won’t regret choosing the second option!

Ozempic vs semaglutide: are they the same?

Is Ozempic Better Than Semaglutide?

When it comes to Ozempic vs semaglutide, you might be wondering – which one is better? Should I go for the branded version, or opt for compounded semaglutide instead? 

First, it’s important to keep in mind that the effectiveness of the medication doesn’t change with the branding, which means that Ozempic isn’t always the best choice. 

If you are looking for maximum efficiency without breaking the bank, compounded semaglutide is generally the better choice. It offers the flexibility of customized dosages tailored to your specific health needs, at a more affordable price, and without sacrificing your results – which is what matters the most.

Can You Switch From Ozempic to Semaglutide?

So, can you switch to compounded semaglutide if you are currently on Ozempic? This is one of the most common questions that people ask when comparing Ozempic vs semaglutide, and we perfectly understand where they are coming from. 

The answer is yes! You can perfectly switch from the branded variation of the medication to compounded semaglutide, as both contain the active ingredient (which is semaglutide). The transition should be seamless, although it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider.

If you need help making the transition, our expert team at FancyMeds can help you. We can guide the dosage adjustment, and monitor your response to ensure maximum effectiveness while reducing any potential side effects.

What Are The Potential Side Effects of Switching From Ozempic to Semaglutide?

While we are on the topic of comparing Ozempic vs semaglutide, one important thing you will need to consider if you are looking to transition are the potential side effects. 

According to a study published by the National Library of Medicine, you might experience some of the following side effects:

Gastrointestinal Issues 

Some of the most frequent side effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. That’s because they slow gastric emptying – the rate at which food leaves the stomach and enters the small intestine.

This effect can help reduce appetite and control blood sugar levels, but it can also lead to various digestive symptoms. Nausea tends to be one of the most reported side effects, and it can occur as your body adjusts to the medication. 

Another side effect that can occur when switching from Ozempic to semaglutide is vomiting, which happens when the medication is first started, or when the dose is increased. When switching from one to another, make sure to start with a lower dose, and increase it gradually.

Injection Side Reactions

When looking at Ozempic vs semaglutide, keep in mind that you might also experience injection side reactions, such as redness, swelling, or irritation. This can happen from the injection itself, or as a reaction to any of the components in the formula.

In some cases, the technique that you are using during the injection can also lead to some irritation. While most of these reactions are temporary, always make sure to check with your health specialist if they persist or worsen.

If you are purchasing semaglutide from FancyMeds, you will get a Dedicated Patient Care Coordinator assigned to your case, who will follow up regularly based on a 25-step Care Plan.

You will also get unlimited access to a Doctor that issues your prescription, and is available for follow up consultations or questions. 

Hypoglycemia

Whether you are on Ozempic or you are switching to semaglutide, another potential side effect that you need to be prepared for is hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. 

Although not as common compared with other side effects, the risk increases if your dosage is not properly matched to your needs. At FancyMeds, we will make sure that your dosage is just right – if it’s too high, it can lead to excessive low blood sugar levels.

In addition, we highly recommend that you don’t skip meals, and you make sure that your meals have a sufficient amount of carbohydrates – this might lead to lower blood sugar levels as well.

Allergic Reactions

Of course, allergic reactions are also possible when it comes to Ozempic vs semaglutide, and they can happen regardless of exactly which medication you are using. These reactions can range from mild skin rashes to more severe cases such as anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition. 

Symptoms to watch for include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, and dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. 

Always discuss your allergy history with your healthcare provider before starting a new medication, and closely monitor your body’s response to the treatment to ensure any allergic reactions can be quickly addressed.

How Can I Reduce The Possible Side Effects of Ozempic and Semaglutide? 

When comparing Ozempic vs semaglutide, there is always a possibility for side effects – no type of medication is ever exempt from that, whether it’s for weight loss, diabetes, or something completely different.

However, there are some things that you can do to minimize potential side effects. Here are some of our tips:

• Start With a Low Dose – If you are just starting semaglutide, make sure to begin your treatment with a lower dose than typically prescribed, and increase it gradually. If you are switching from Ozempic to semaglutide, the same also applies.
• Don’t Take Your Dose On An Empty Stomach – If you are taking your dose on an empty stomach, this might enhance potential gastrointestinal side effects. That’s because the medication interacts more with the stomach lining when it’s empty. We recommend taking your dose with a light meal or a snack to mitigate nausea.
• Don’t Forget to Hydrate Properly – Staying hydrated is extremely important if you want to offset dehydration caused by nausea or diarrhea. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
• Use The Right Injection Technique – Applying your injection the wrong way can increase the possibility for irritation and swelling. Make sure to apply on clean skin, and rotate injection sites to avoid localized skin reactions.
• Pay Attention to Your Diet – While weight loss management is the key benefit of Ozempic vs semaglutide, you should also pay attention to your diet to improve your overall health, and reduce potential side effects. Eat smaller, more frequent meals to manage the changes in digestion and appetite.
• Time Your Medication Correctly – As you begin to take your doses, you will likely notice that certain times of the day are better as you are less susceptible to side effects (for example, just before bedtime). By timing your medication, you will manage your symptoms better.

Can I Get Compounded Semaglutide For Free?

Did you know that you could get compounded semaglutide for free? It’s super easy with our Referral Program! All you need to do is sign up, get your unique $75 coupon code to share with 3 friends or family members, and you earn a free month!

Each purchase counts towards your free month and any extra purchases roll over to your following months. Get your free meds now!

About FancyMeds

We are a state-licensed pharmacy that specializes in the compounding of customized medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide. 

While they contain the same active ingredients as Ozempic and Mounjaro, our medications are customized to meet your specific health needs.

By combining high-quality, FDA-approved ingredients with precise, expert formulations, we ensure that each medication not only adheres to rigorous safety standards, but also aligns perfectly with your prescriptions as advised by healthcare providers. 

FAQ

Is compounded semaglutide safe?

Yes, compounded semaglutide can be safe when prepared in a reputable, state-licensed pharmacy under strict guidelines. 

Always consult a healthcare provider before using compounded medications to ensure they meet your specific needs and safety standards.

Is Ozempic more effective than compounded semaglutide?

When comparing Ozempic vs semaglutide, it’s important to keep in mind that Ozempic is not necessarily more effective than compounded semaglutide just because it’s a brand name. 

Since both contain the same active ingredient, their efficiency is generally similar. In fact, in a lot of cases, compounded semaglutide can actually be more effective since the dosage is tailored to your unique needs. 

Is Ozempic more expensive than compounded semaglutide?

Yes, Ozempic is generally more expensive than compounded semaglutide. Compounded versions tend to be more affordable, as they are tailored to your individual needs without the same commercial branding and Marketing expenses.

What are the administration differences between Ozempic and semaglutide?

When comparing Ozempic vs semaglutide, there are generally no administration differences with compounded semaglutide as both are administered via injection. 

However, other products, such as Rybelsus, may have different methods for administration. 

Ozempic is administered as a once-weekly injection, whereas Rybelsus is an oral tablet taken daily. This difference can influence patient preference based on convenience and comfort with the method of administration. Each form maintains the same active ingredient, semaglutide, but the delivery systems cater to different lifestyles and medical needs.

Can I switch from Ozempic to another semaglutide formulation specifically for better weight loss results?

Switching from Ozempic to another semaglutide formulation, which is more focused on weight management, might be considered for better weight loss results. 

Consult with your healthcare provider to discuss the potential benefits and adjustments needed, as different formulations have varying dosages and indications tailored to specific health outcomes.