Same active ingredient (semaglutide); different products with different FDA-approved indications. Ozempic: type 2 diabetes (and CV risk reduction in T2D+CVD). Wegovy: chronic weight management plus, since March 2024, cardiovascular event reduction in adults with obesity or overweight (BMI ≥27) and established CVD.
Side-by-side
| Dimension | Ozempic | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| FDA-approved use | Type 2 diabetes; CV risk reduction in T2D with CVD | Chronic weight management; CV event reduction with established CVD |
| List price | About $968/mo (July 2026) | $1,349.02 a package (October 15, 2026) |
| Self-pay (October 15, 2026) | Not on file | Pen $349/mo through NovoCare ($199 for two starter fills for new patients through December 31, 2026); Wegovy pill $149–$299/mo; Wegovy HD 7.2 mg $399/mo |
Who should pick Ozempic
Patients with type 2 diabetes — Ozempic is the right product. Most commercial insurance covers Ozempic for T2D.
Who should pick Wegovy
Patients with obesity (without diabetes), or obesity + established CVD — Wegovy under the March 2024 indication. Eligible Medicare Part D enrollees can use CMS's Medicare GLP-1 Bridge ($50 copay, July 1, 2026 to December 31, 2027).
Frequently asked
Same drug?
Same active ingredient (semaglutide). Different products with different FDA-approved doses and indications.
Can you use Ozempic off-label for weight?
It happens but isn't FDA-approved labeling. Wegovy is the approved product.
Does insurance cover Wegovy?
Variable. Many commercial plans cover it with prior authorization, and Novo Nordisk's savings offer can bring the commercial copay to as little as $25 (maximum savings $100/month). For Medicare, CMS's Medicare GLP-1 Bridge offers a $50 copay to eligible Part D enrollees from July 1, 2026 to December 31, 2027. Without coverage, Wegovy pen self-pay through NovoCare is $349/mo (read October 15, 2026).