Are Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus the same drug?

Yes — all three are semaglutide, made by Novo Nordisk. Ozempic (weekly injection) and Rybelsus (daily pill) are approved for type 2 diabetes; Wegovy (weekly injection, higher max dose) is approved for weight management. Same active molecule, different brand, dose, and approved use.

Are Mounjaro and Zepbound the same drug?

Yes — both are tirzepatide, made by Eli Lilly, a dual GIP + GLP-1 agonist. Mounjaro is the type-2-diabetes brand; Zepbound is the weight-management brand (also approved for obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity).

Which GLP-1 causes the most weight loss?

In pivotal trials, tirzepatide (Zepbound) produced the largest average weight loss, and a 2025 head-to-head trial (SURMOUNT-5) found it produced greater average weight loss than semaglutide (Wegovy). But these are trial averages — individual results vary, side effects and cost differ, and the right choice is individualized. This is general information, not medical advice.

Is there a GLP-1 pill instead of an injection?

Yes. Rybelsus is oral semaglutide (a daily tablet, taken on an empty stomach), and Foundayo (orforglipron) is a newer daily GLP-1 pill approved in 2026 with no food/water restrictions. Both are alternatives to the weekly injections.

Which GLP-1 is right for you? All 9 compared

The short answer

Several of these are the same drug. Semaglutide is sold as Ozempic, Wegovy AND Rybelsus. Tirzepatide is sold as Mounjaro AND Zepbound. The brand tells you what the FDA approved it for, not what is in it.
The split that matters is diabetes vs weight. Ozempic, Mounjaro, Rybelsus, Trulicity and Victoza are approved for type 2 diabetes; Wegovy, Zepbound, Saxenda and Foundayo for chronic weight management. Same molecules, different approved use and different maximum dose.
Two of them are pills now, and almost nobody has updated. Ozempic and Wegovy each began selling a once-daily TABLET in 2026 (NDA213051 and NDA218316). The tablet doses are not interchangeable with the injection’s, and the FDA label says so outright.
9 of these 9 carry an FDA boxed warning — the strongest warning the FDA can require — and on most of them it is the same one, for thyroid C-cell tumours. It is printed under each drug below, not buried in a footnote.

By the pharmaranks editorial teamReviewed against FDA (DailyMed) & peer-reviewed trials sourcesHow we research

1.Ozempic(semaglutide)Boxed warning

FDA-approved for: Type 2 diabetes
How it's taken: Once-weekly injection or once-daily tablet
Mechanism: GLP-1 receptor agonist
Maker: Novo Nordisk
Max dose — once-weekly injection: 2 mg once weekly
Max dose — once-daily oral tablet: 9 mg once daily
Our recall-safety rating: 70/100

Same molecule as Wegovy and Rybelsus. FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (and to cut cardiovascular risk in some adults) — weight loss is a common secondary effect, but Wegovy is the version FDA-approved for weight management. Since 2026 Ozempic is also sold as a once-daily tablet (NDA213051). Its milligram numbers are HIGHER than the injection's (1.5/4/9 mg daily vs 0.25–2 mg weekly) because oral semaglutide is barely absorbed — which is exactly why the two are not interchangeable, and why the FDA label says the tablets are not substitutable on a mg-to-mg basis.

Dosing — once-weekly injection

Start 0.25 mg once weekly for 4 weeks (this starting dose isn't for blood-sugar control — it's to ease you in). Then 0.5 mg; if more control is needed, step up to 1 mg, then 2 mg, waiting at least 4 weeks at each dose.

Inject under the skin of the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, any time of day, with or without food, on the same day each week.

Read the FDA label ↗

Dosing — once-daily oral tablet

Start 1.5 mg once daily for 30 days (initiation — this dose is not effective for glucose control), then 4 mg from day 31. From day 61, stay at 4 mg, or go to 9 mg if more glucose control is needed. These are NOT the Rybelsus numbers: the label states the two tablets are not substitutable milligram-for-milligram.

Take on an empty stomach when you first wake up, with no more than 4 oz of plain water — no other liquid. Swallow whole; do not split, crush or chew. Wait at least 30 minutes before any food, other drinks, or other oral medicines.

Read the FDA label ↗

FDA boxed warning — Ozempic

RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS • In rodents, semaglutide causes dose-dependent and treatment-duration-dependent thyroid C-cell tumors at clinically relevant exposures. It is unknown whether OZEMPIC causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as human relevance of semaglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), Nonclinical Toxicology ( 13.1 )] . • OZEMPIC is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Counsel patients regarding the potential risk for MTC with the use of OZEMPIC and inform them of symptoms of thyroid tumors (e.g., a mass in the neck, dysphagia, dyspnea, persistent hoarseness). Routine monitoring of serum calcitonin or using thyroid ultrasound is of uncertain value for early detection of MTC in patients treated with OZEMPIC [see Contraindications ( 4 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . WARNING: RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. • In rodents, semaglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors. It is unknown whether OZEMPIC causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as the human relevance of semaglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined ( 5.1 , 13.1 ). • OZEMPIC is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk of MTC and symptoms of thyroid tumors ( 4 , 5.1 ).

Read it in full →

Ozempic: full FDA label, side effects & recall record · Everything sold as semaglutide

2.Wegovy(semaglutide)Boxed warning

FDA-approved for: Chronic weight management
How it's taken: Once-weekly injection or once-daily tablet
Mechanism: GLP-1 receptor agonist
Maker: Novo Nordisk
Max dose — once-weekly injection: 2.4 mg once weekly (newer max 7.2 mg for weight)
Max dose — once-daily oral tablet: 25 mg once daily
Our recall-safety rating: 70/100

The weight-management version of semaglutide. Same active drug as Ozempic; the brand and approved use differ. Approved to reduce excess body weight, to cut the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with established CV disease and obesity/overweight, and (accelerated approval, injection only) for noncirrhotic MASH with F2–F3 fibrosis. Since 2026 Wegovy is also sold as a once-daily tablet (NDA218316), titrated to a 25 mg maintenance dose.

Dosing — once-weekly injection

Step up roughly every 4 weeks: 0.25 mg (weeks 1–4) → 0.5 mg → 1 mg → 1.7 mg → 2.4 mg maintenance (from week 17). If 2.4 mg isn't tolerated it can drop to 1.7 mg; a newer label allows going up to 7.2 mg if more weight loss is needed and it's tolerated.

Inject under the skin of the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, on the same day each week, with or without food.

Read the FDA label ↗

Dosing — once-daily oral tablet

Start 1.5 mg once daily for 30 days, then step up every 30 days to the maintenance dose. The label's recommended maintenance is 25 mg once daily — for weight reduction and to cut cardiovascular risk in adults.

Read the FDA label ↗

FDA boxed warning — Wegovy

RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS • In rodents, semaglutide causes dose-dependent and treatment-duration-dependent thyroid C-cell tumors at clinically relevant exposures. It is unknown whether WEGOVY causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as human relevance of semaglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) and Nonclinical Toxicology ( 13.1 )] . • WEGOVY is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Counsel patients regarding the potential risk for MTC with the use of WEGOVY and inform them of symptoms of thyroid tumors (e.g. a mass in the neck, dysphagia, dyspnea, persistent hoarseness). Routine monitoring of serum calcitonin or using thyroid ultrasound is of uncertain value for early detection of MTC in patients treated with WEGOVY [see Contraindications ( 4 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . WARNING: RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. • In rodents, semaglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors at clinically relevant exposures. It is unknown whether WEGOVY causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as the human relevance of semaglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined ( 5.1 , 13.1 ). • WEGOVY is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk of MTC and symptoms of thyroid tumors ( 4 , 5.1 ).

Read it in full →

Wegovy: full FDA label, side effects & recall record · Everything sold as semaglutide

3.Zepbound(tirzepatide)Boxed warning

FDA-approved for: Chronic weight management
How it's taken: Once-weekly injection
Mechanism: Dual GIP + GLP-1 receptor agonist
Maker: Eli Lilly
Max dose — once-weekly injection: 15 mg once weekly

The weight-management brand of tirzepatide, which acts on two gut hormones (GIP and GLP-1). Same molecule as Mounjaro; also FDA-approved for moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity.

Dosing — once-weekly injection

Start 2.5 mg once weekly for 4 weeks (initiation, not a maintenance dose), then increase by 2.5 mg at a time after at least 4 weeks on the current dose. Maintenance is 5, 10, or 15 mg once weekly.

Inject under the skin once weekly, any time of day, with or without food.

Read the FDA label ↗

FDA boxed warning — Zepbound

In rats, tirzepatide causes dose-dependent and treatment-duration-dependent thyroid C-cell tumors at clinically relevant exposures. It is unknown whether ZEPBOUND causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as human relevance of tirzepatide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) and Nonclinical Toxicology ( 13.1 )]. ZEPBOUND is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Counsel patients regarding the potential risk for MTC with the use of ZEPBOUND and inform them of symptoms of thyroid tumors (e.g., a mass in the neck, dysphagia, dyspnea, persistent hoarseness). Routine monitoring of serum calcitonin or using thyroid ultrasound is of uncertain value for early detection of MTC in patients treated with ZEPBOUND [see Contraindications ( 4 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. WARNING: RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. In rats, tirzepatide causes thyroid C-cell tumors. It is unknown whether ZEPBOUND causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as the human relevance of tirzepatide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined ( 5.1 , 13.1 ). ZEPBOUND is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk of MTC and symptoms of thyroid tumors ( 4 , 5.1 ).

Read it in full →

Zepbound: full FDA label, side effects & recall record · Everything sold as tirzepatide

4.Mounjaro(tirzepatide)Boxed warning

FDA-approved for: Type 2 diabetes
How it's taken: Once-weekly injection
Mechanism: Dual GIP + GLP-1 receptor agonist
Maker: Eli Lilly
Max dose — once-weekly injection: 15 mg once weekly

The type-2-diabetes brand of tirzepatide. Same molecule as Zepbound; brand and approved use differ.

Dosing — once-weekly injection

Start 2.5 mg once weekly for 4 weeks, then 5 mg. If more blood-sugar control is needed, increase by 2.5 mg at a time after at least 4 weeks on the current dose.

Inject under the skin once weekly, any time of day, with or without food.

Read the FDA label ↗

FDA boxed warning — Mounjaro

In both male and female rats, tirzepatide causes dose-dependent and treatment-duration-dependent thyroid C-cell tumors at clinically relevant exposures. It is unknown whether MOUNJARO causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as human relevance of tirzepatide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) and Nonclinical Toxicology ( 13.1 )]. MOUNJARO is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Counsel patients regarding the potential risk for MTC with the use of MOUNJARO and inform them of symptoms of thyroid tumors (e.g., a mass in the neck, dysphagia, dyspnea, persistent hoarseness). Routine monitoring of serum calcitonin or using thyroid ultrasound is of uncertain value for early detection of MTC in patients treated with MOUNJARO [see Contraindications ( 4 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. WARNING: RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Tirzepatide causes thyroid C-cell tumors in rats. It is unknown whether MOUNJARO causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as the human relevance of tirzepatide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined ( 5.1 , 13.1 ). MOUNJARO is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk of MTC and symptoms of thyroid tumors ( 4 , 5.1 ).

Read it in full →

Mounjaro: full FDA label, side effects & recall record · Everything sold as tirzepatide

5.Rybelsus(semaglutide)Boxed warning

FDA-approved for: Type 2 diabetes
How it's taken: Once-daily oral tablet
Mechanism: GLP-1 receptor agonist
Maker: Novo Nordisk
Max dose — once-daily oral tablet: 14 mg once daily
Our recall-safety rating: 70/100

Oral semaglutide — the first GLP-1 in a daily pill rather than an injection. Take on an empty stomach with a small sip of water; approved for type 2 diabetes.

Dosing — once-daily oral tablet

Start 3 mg once daily for 30 days (initiation, not for glucose control), then 7 mg; if more control is needed, 14 mg after at least 30 days on 7 mg.

Take on an empty stomach when you first wake up, with no more than 4 oz (a small sip) of plain water. Swallow whole, then wait at least 30 minutes before any food, other drinks, or other medicines.

Read the FDA label ↗

FDA boxed warning — Rybelsus

RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS • In rodents, semaglutide causes dose-dependent and treatment-duration-dependent thyroid C-cell tumors at clinically relevant exposures. It is unknown whether RYBELSUS and OZEMPIC tablets cause thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as human relevance of semaglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), Nonclinical Toxicology ( 13.1 )] . • RYBELSUS and OZEMPIC tablets are contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Counsel patients regarding the potential risk for MTC with the use of RYBELSUS or OZEMPIC tablets and inform them of symptoms of thyroid tumors (e.g., a mass in the neck, dysphagia, dyspnea, persistent hoarseness). Routine monitoring of serum calcitonin or using thyroid ultrasound is of uncertain value for early detection of MTC in patients treated with RYBELSUS or OZEMPIC tablets [see Contraindications ( 4 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. WARNING: RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. • In rodents, semaglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors. It is unknown whether RYBELSUS and OZEMPIC tablets cause thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as the human relevance of semaglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined ( 5.1 , 13.1 ). • RYBELSUS and OZEMPIC tablets are contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk of MTC and symptoms of thyroid tumors ( 4 , 5.1 ).

Read it in full →

Rybelsus: full FDA label, side effects & recall record · Everything sold as semaglutide

6.Trulicity(dulaglutide)Boxed warning

FDA-approved for: Type 2 diabetes
How it's taken: Once-weekly injection
Mechanism: GLP-1 receptor agonist
Maker: Eli Lilly
Max dose — once-weekly injection: 4.5 mg once weekly

A once-weekly GLP-1 for type 2 diabetes (and cardiovascular risk reduction in some adults). Not FDA-approved for weight loss.

Dosing — once-weekly injection

Start 0.75 mg once weekly. After 4 weeks it may go to 1.5 mg; if more control is needed, increase by 1.5 mg at a time after at least 4 weeks on the current dose.

Inject under the skin once weekly, any time of day, with or without food.

Read the FDA label ↗

FDA boxed warning — Trulicity

In male and female rats, dulaglutide causes a dose-related and treatment-duration-dependent increase in the incidence of thyroid C-cell tumors (adenomas and carcinomas) after lifetime exposure. It is unknown whether TRULICITY causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as human relevance of dulaglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), and Nonclinical Toxicology ( 13.1 )] . TRULICITY is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC and in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk of MTC with use of TRULICITY and inform them of symptoms of thyroid tumors (e.g., mass in the neck, dysphagia, dyspnea, persistent hoarseness). Routine monitoring of serum calcitonin or using thyroid ultrasound is of uncertain value for early detection of MTC in patients treated with TRULICITY [see Contraindications ( 4 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . WARNING: RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Dulaglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors in rats. It is unknown whether TRULICITY causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as the human relevance of dulaglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined ( 5.1 , 13.1 ). TRULICITY is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC and in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk of MTC and symptoms of thyroid tumors ( 4 , 5.1 ).

Read it in full →

Trulicity: full FDA label, side effects & recall record · Everything sold as dulaglutide

7.Victoza(liraglutide)Boxed warning

FDA-approved for: Type 2 diabetes
How it's taken: Once-daily injection
Mechanism: GLP-1 receptor agonist
Maker: Novo Nordisk
Max dose — once-daily injection: 1.8 mg once daily
Our recall-safety rating: 70/100

An older, once-daily GLP-1 for type 2 diabetes. Saxenda is the same molecule (liraglutide) approved for weight management.

Dosing — once-daily injection

Start 0.6 mg once daily for one week (to ease GI side effects, not for glucose control), then 1.2 mg; if more control is needed, 1.8 mg after at least a week on 1.2 mg.

Inject under the skin once daily, any time of day, independent of meals.

Read the FDA label ↗

FDA boxed warning — Victoza

RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS • Liraglutide causes dose-dependent and treatment-duration-dependent thyroid C-cell tumors at clinically relevant exposures in both genders of rats and mice. It is unknown whether liraglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans, as the human relevance of liraglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), Nonclinical Toxicology ( 13.1 )] . • Liraglutide is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC and in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk for MTC with the use of liraglutide and inform them of symptoms of thyroid tumors (e.g., a mass in the neck, dysphagia, dyspnea, persistent hoarseness). Routine monitoring of serum calcitonin or using thyroid ultrasound is of uncertain value for early detection of MTC in patients treated with liraglutide [see Contraindications ( 4 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . WARNING: RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. • Liraglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors at clinically relevant exposures in both genders of rats and mice. It is unknown whether liraglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans, as the human relevance of liraglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined ( 5.1 , 13.1 ) . • Liraglutide is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk of MTC and the symptoms of thyroid tumors ( 4 , 5.1 ).

Read it in full →

Victoza: full FDA label, side effects & recall record · Everything sold as liraglutide

8.Saxenda(liraglutide)Boxed warning

FDA-approved for: Chronic weight management
How it's taken: Once-daily injection
Mechanism: GLP-1 receptor agonist
Maker: Novo Nordisk
Max dose — once-daily injection: 3.0 mg once daily
Our recall-safety rating: 70/100

Once-daily liraglutide for weight management — same molecule as Victoza. Generally produces less weight loss than the weekly semaglutide/tirzepatide options, worth discussing with a clinician.

Dosing — once-daily injection

Increase weekly: 0.6 mg (week 1) → 1.2 mg → 1.8 mg → 2.4 mg → 3.0 mg maintenance. Slower steps are used if side effects aren't tolerated.

Inject under the skin once daily, any time of day, independent of meals.

Read the FDA label ↗

FDA boxed warning — Saxenda

RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS • Liraglutide causes dose-dependent and treatment-duration-dependent thyroid C-cell tumors at clinically relevant exposures in both genders of rats and mice. It is unknown whether SAXENDA causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans, as the human relevance of liraglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) and Nonclinical Toxicology ( 13.1 )] . • SAXENDA is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC and in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk of MTC with use of SAXENDA and inform them of symptoms of thyroid tumors (e.g., a mass in the neck, dysphagia, dyspnea, persistent hoarseness). Routine monitoring of serum calcitonin or using thyroid ultrasound is of uncertain value for early detection of MTC in patients treated with SAXENDA [see Contraindications ( 4 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. WARNING: RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. • Liraglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors at clinically relevant exposures in both genders of rats and mice. It is unknown whether SAXENDA causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans, as the human relevance of liraglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined ( 5.1 ). • SAXENDA is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk of MTC and the symptoms of thyroid tumors ( 4 , 5.1 , 13.1 ).

Read it in full →

Saxenda: full FDA label, side effects & recall record · Everything sold as liraglutide

9.Foundayo(orforglipron)Boxed warning

FDA-approved for: Chronic weight management
How it's taken: Once-daily oral tablet
Mechanism: GLP-1 receptor agonist
Maker: Eli Lilly

A newer small-molecule GLP-1 pill (FDA-approved 2026) taken once daily with no food or water restrictions — an oral alternative to the injectables.

FDA boxed warning — Foundayo

In products with glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist activity that are pharmacologically active in rats and mice, rodent thyroid C-cell tumors (adenomas and carcinomas) have been observed at clinically relevant exposures and are considered GLP-1 receptor-dependent effects in rodents. Orforglipron is not pharmacologically active in rats or mice and did not produce tumors in rodents [see Nonclinical Toxicology ( 13.1 )] . While orforglipron is pharmacologically active at the human GLP-1 receptor, the human relevance of GLP-1 receptor-dependent thyroid C-cell tumors observed in rodents has not been determined [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), Nonclinical Toxicology ( 13.1 )] . FOUNDAYO is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Counsel patients regarding the potential risk for MTC with the use of FOUNDAYO and inform them of symptoms of thyroid tumors (e.g., a mass in the neck, dysphagia, dyspnea, persistent hoarseness). Routine monitoring of serum calcitonin or using thyroid ultrasound is of uncertain value for early detection of MTC in patients treated with FOUNDAYO [see Contraindications ( 4 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . WARNING: RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. In products with glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist activity that are pharmacologically active in rats and mice, rodent thyroid C-cell tumors (adenomas and carcinomas) have been observed at clinically relevant exposures and are considered GLP-1 receptor-dependent effects in rodents. Orforglipron is not pharmacologically active in rats or mice and did not produce tumors in rodents ( 13.1 ) . While orforglipron is pharmacologically active at the human GLP-1 receptor, the human relevance of GLP-1 receptor-dependent thyroid C-cell tumors observed in rodents has not been determined ( 5.1 , 13.1 ). FOUNDAYO is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk of MTC and symptoms of thyroid tumors ( 4 , 5.1 ).

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Foundayo: full FDA label, side effects & recall record · Everything sold as orforglipron

The same drug under three names

Semaglutide = Ozempic (diabetes, weekly shot) · Wegovy (weight, weekly shot) · Rybelsus (diabetes, daily pill). One molecule, three brands.
Tirzepatide = Mounjaro (diabetes) · Zepbound (weight). One molecule, two brands — and it works on two gut hormones, not one.
Liraglutide = Victoza (diabetes) · Saxenda (weight).

Zepbound vs Wegovy vs Ozempic

The three most-searched names. Efficacy figures below are averagebody-weight change from each drug’s pivotal trial (alongside diet and exercise) — individual results vary widely and side effects and cost differ. Not medical advice.

Brand	Molecule	Mechanism	Approved for	Max dose	Avg. weight change (trial)
Zepbound	tirzepatide	Dual GIP + GLP-1	Weight management	15 mg weekly	SURMOUNT-1: ≈ 20–21% average body-weight reduction at the 15 mg dose over ~72 weeks
Wegovy	semaglutide	GLP-1	Weight management	2.4 mg weekly (label allows up to 7.2 mg by injection, adults, for weight reduction)	STEP 1: ≈ 15% average body-weight reduction over 68 weeks
Ozempic	semaglutide	GLP-1	Type 2 diabetes (not weight)	2 mg weekly	SUSTAIN program: weight loss is a secondary effect (single-digit %); Wegovy is the weight-approved form of the same drug

A 2025 head-to-head trial (SURMOUNT-5) found tirzepatide produced greater average weight loss than semaglutide in adults with obesity. Trial averages aren’t a promise for any one person — a clinician weighs efficacy, side effects, other conditions, and cost.

Every GLP-1 option, normalized

Brand	Molecule	Mechanism	Approved for	How it’s taken	Maker
Ozempic	semaglutide	GLP-1 receptor agonist	Type 2 diabetes	Once-weekly injection or once-daily tablet	Novo Nordisk
Wegovy	semaglutide	GLP-1 receptor agonist	Chronic weight management	Once-weekly injection or once-daily tablet	Novo Nordisk
Zepbound	tirzepatide	Dual GIP + GLP-1 receptor agonist	Chronic weight management	Once-weekly injection	Eli Lilly
Mounjaro	tirzepatide	Dual GIP + GLP-1 receptor agonist	Type 2 diabetes	Once-weekly injection	Eli Lilly
Rybelsus	semaglutide	GLP-1 receptor agonist	Type 2 diabetes	Once-daily oral tablet	Novo Nordisk
Trulicity	dulaglutide	GLP-1 receptor agonist	Type 2 diabetes	Once-weekly injection	Eli Lilly
Victoza	liraglutide	GLP-1 receptor agonist	Type 2 diabetes	Once-daily injection	Novo Nordisk
Saxenda	liraglutide	GLP-1 receptor agonist	Chronic weight management	Once-daily injection	Novo Nordisk
Foundayo	orforglipron	GLP-1 receptor agonist	Chronic weight management	Once-daily oral tablet	Eli Lilly

Tap a brand for our independent page — FDA label, safety, and our recall-safety rating where one exists. Approved uses and mechanisms are from FDA prescribing information (DailyMed).

What sets each apart

Ozempic (semaglutide): Same molecule as Wegovy and Rybelsus. FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (and to cut cardiovascular risk in some adults) — weight loss is a common secondary effect, but Wegovy is the version FDA-approved for weight management. Since 2026 Ozempic is also sold as a once-daily tablet (NDA213051). Its milligram numbers are HIGHER than the injection's (1.5/4/9 mg daily vs 0.25–2 mg weekly) because oral semaglutide is barely absorbed — which is exactly why the two are not interchangeable, and why the FDA label says the tablets are not substitutable on a mg-to-mg basis.
Wegovy (semaglutide): The weight-management version of semaglutide. Same active drug as Ozempic; the brand and approved use differ. Approved to reduce excess body weight, to cut the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with established CV disease and obesity/overweight, and (accelerated approval, injection only) for noncirrhotic MASH with F2–F3 fibrosis. Since 2026 Wegovy is also sold as a once-daily tablet (NDA218316), titrated to a 25 mg maintenance dose.
Zepbound (tirzepatide): The weight-management brand of tirzepatide, which acts on two gut hormones (GIP and GLP-1). Same molecule as Mounjaro; also FDA-approved for moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity.
Mounjaro (tirzepatide): The type-2-diabetes brand of tirzepatide. Same molecule as Zepbound; brand and approved use differ.
Rybelsus (semaglutide): Oral semaglutide — the first GLP-1 in a daily pill rather than an injection. Take on an empty stomach with a small sip of water; approved for type 2 diabetes.
Trulicity (dulaglutide): A once-weekly GLP-1 for type 2 diabetes (and cardiovascular risk reduction in some adults). Not FDA-approved for weight loss.
Victoza (liraglutide): An older, once-daily GLP-1 for type 2 diabetes. Saxenda is the same molecule (liraglutide) approved for weight management.
Saxenda (liraglutide): Once-daily liraglutide for weight management — same molecule as Victoza. Generally produces less weight loss than the weekly semaglutide/tirzepatide options, worth discussing with a clinician.
Foundayo (orforglipron): A newer small-molecule GLP-1 pill (FDA-approved 2026) taken once daily with no food or water restrictions — an oral alternative to the injectables.

Head-to-head: Wegovy vs Ozempic, Mounjaro vs Ozempic →What’s next: retatrutide (triple agonist) →GLP-1 dosing schedules →GLP-1 side effects →Weight-loss treatment guide →Obesity: ranked treatments →Supplements to support GLP-1s →

FAQ

Are Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus the same drug?: Yes — all three are semaglutide, made by Novo Nordisk. Ozempic (weekly injection) and Rybelsus (daily pill) are approved for type 2 diabetes; Wegovy (weekly injection, higher max dose) is approved for weight management. Same active molecule, different brand, dose, and approved use.
Are Mounjaro and Zepbound the same drug?: Yes — both are tirzepatide, made by Eli Lilly, a dual GIP + GLP-1 agonist. Mounjaro is the type-2-diabetes brand; Zepbound is the weight-management brand (also approved for obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity).
Which GLP-1 causes the most weight loss?: In pivotal trials, tirzepatide (Zepbound) produced the largest average weight loss, and a 2025 head-to-head trial (SURMOUNT-5) found it produced greater average weight loss than semaglutide (Wegovy). But these are trial averages — individual results vary, side effects and cost differ, and the right choice is individualized. This is general information, not medical advice.
Is there a GLP-1 pill instead of an injection?: Yes. Rybelsus is oral semaglutide (a daily tablet, taken on an empty stomach), and Foundayo (orforglipron) is a newer daily GLP-1 pill approved in 2026 with no food/water restrictions. Both are alternatives to the weekly injections.

Sources

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Most weight-loss telehealth services dispense COMPOUNDED semaglutide or tirzepatide — a copy the FDA has not reviewed for identity, potency, purity or sterility. The shortages that made routine compounding lawful ended (tirzepatide October 2024, semaglutide February 2025), and in 2026 the FDA has been issuing warning letters over how compounded GLP-1s are marketed. If you want the FDA-approved branded drug, say so and check which service prescribes it.

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General reference, not medical advice, and not a substitute for your doctor or pharmacist. GLP-1 drugs are prescription-only; approved uses, doses, benefits, and risks are individual, and trial averages don’t predict any one person’s result. Do not start, stop, or switch a medication based on this page — talk to a licensed clinician.