Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus) Strengths: Strong evidence base with extensive clinical trial data Once-weekly dosing (injection) or daily (oral) Excellent glucose control and weight loss Proven cardiovascular and kidney benefits Widely available Considerations: Gastrointestinal side effects common initially Cost without insurance is significant Best for: Most patients seeking strong glucose control with weight loss
Im Amy Hudson
Insurance plans have different requirements for weight loss medications, explains Christie Kunde, Pharm.D., owner of InformedRx
Gutzwiller JP, Tschopp S, Bock A, Zehnder CE, Huber AR, Kreyenbuehl M, Gutmann H, Drewe J, Henzen C, Goeke B, Beglinger C: Glucagon-like peptide 1 induces natriuresis in healthy subjects and in insulin-resistant obese men
Even more concerning, some supplements that claim to promote weight loss may pose real health risks
That said, the most expensive option is not automatically the best