*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
Top Wegovy alternatives include Zepbound and Saxenda, two injectable peptide medications. Weight loss pills such as Qsymia, Contrave, and Xenical may also be considered. Dietary supplements, fiber, and a non-prescription medication called Alli are over-the-counter options that may help with weight loss. Your healthcare provider can help you consider Wegovy alternatives and how to safely change medications, if necessary.1
If you are considering a Wegovy alternative, we have thoroughly reviewed platforms like PlushCare and Circle Medical. These platforms can be a good place to start with an evaluation and may offer you a prescription for Wegovy online.
Boxed Warning: Semaglutide – Risk of Thyroid C-Cell Tumors
Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Semaglutide has a risk of thyroid c-cell tumors. Your healthcare provider will evaluate your health history and risk for thyroid tumors to decide if semaglutide is safe for you.
Key Takeaways
Some seeking medications for weight loss may need to consider Wegovy alternatives. Wegovy is prescribed as a non-FDA-approved treatment to promote weight loss, but may not be right for everyone.
Several prescription medications can be used as Wegovy alternatives, including other injectable weight loss and diabetes medications and appetite suppressants. Some may find natural and over-the-counter treatments helpful for weight loss.
If you are considering an alternative for Wegovy, a good place to start is with an evaluation from a medical provider. PlushCare and Circle Medical, two online providers that can and will prescribe weight loss medications like Wegovy.
Medication to Help with Weight Loss
Get weight loss medication prescribed online by licensed doctors on Klarity. For only $99, connect instantly with weight loss experts to receive a personalized plan, including options like Semaglutide, Ozempic, Wegovy, Phentermine, and more. Free consultation is available!
Reasons to Consider Wegovy Alternatives
Some looking for weight loss medications need to consider alternatives to Wegovy. While Wegovy is a safe and effective medication for many, it may not be a good fit for everyone. Each person responds uniquely to weight loss medications, and switching to a different medication can sometimes lead to better outcomes.
Some individuals may experience uncomfortable side effects with Wegovy, such as nausea, headache, or fatigue. Some may be taking medications that interact with Wegovy, leading to potential toxicity or reduced effectiveness. Those who have allergic reactions to ingredients in Wegovy will need to avoid it, considering other medications or non-prescription treatments instead.
Insurance coverage, costs, and personal preference are additional key factors to consider. Some patients may find the cost of Wegovy a burden. If you are considering Wegovy alternatives, communicate with your prescriber and pharmacist to identify the treatments that may be a good fit for you.
What Medications Are Alternatives for Wegovy?
Wegovy is a commonly prescribed weight loss medication, but alternatives for Wegovy may be necessary for some. Several types of medications are available to help with weight management. Every Wegovy alternative medication carries risk and the potential for side effects.
Is There a Cheaper Alternative to Wegovy?
Because the medication can be costly, some may consider cheaper alternatives to Wegovy. Alternative medications like liraglutide (Victoza) or naltrexone/bupropion (generic Contrave) may be less expensive depending on location and the pharmacy used.2
Some of the most common alternatives for Wegovy include:
- GLP-1 and GIP/GLP-1 agonists: Ozempic, Rybelsus, Saxenda, Victoza, Trulicity, Zepbound, Mounjaro
- Appetite suppressants: Phendimetrazine, phentermine (Adipex-P, Lomaira), Qsymia
- Other weight loss medications: Contrave, Xenical (Orlistat)
Peptide Weight Loss Medications
GLP-1 and GIP/GLP-1 agonists are peptide medications used to treat type 2 diabetes and weight loss, and can be used as Wegovy alternatives. Most are self-administered injection medications. Ozempic, Victoza, Trulicity, and Rybelsus are GLP-1 agonists that are FDA-approved as treatments for type 2 diabetes, but can be used off-label (non-FDA-approved) to promote weight loss. Like Wegovy, Saxenda is a GLP-1 agonist FDA-approved as a weight loss medication.
GLP-1 agonists work by mimicking the action of a hormone in the body called GLP-1. This activity helps regulate appetite and slow digestion, leading to a sense of fullness. This results in reduced food intake and weight loss. Mounjaro and Zepbound are GIP/GLP-1 agonists, which work similarly to GLP-1 agonists but also target a second hormone (GIP-1), which suppresses appetite. Common side effects of these medications include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and stomach pain.
Because each person has a unique response to medication, some may find that one of these medications may work better or have more tolerable side effects than another.
Here are some peptide drugs like Wegovy often prescribed as alternatives:
- Ozempic (semaglutide): Ozempic contains semaglutide, the same active ingredient as Wegovy, and is used off-label to promote weight loss in adults. Since it is not formulated for weight loss, it is taken in lower doses than other weight loss medications.3
- Rybelsus (semaglutide): Rybelsus also contains semaglutide. However, it is taken orally as a tablet and may be preferred over injectable weight loss GLP agonist medications.4
- Saxenda (liraglutide): Saxenda is an FDA-approved injectable weight loss medication for adults with obesity or excess weight-related medical problems and for adolescents aged 12 to 17 with obesity. Saxenda signals your brain to feel full, helping control appetite and reduce food intake.5
- Victoza (liraglutide): Victoza also contains liraglutide and can be used off-label to promote weight loss in children ages 10 and older to adults. Victoza is taken as a daily injection, which differs from Wegovy’s weekly administration.6
- Trulicity (dulaglutide): Trulicity can be used off-label to promote weight loss. It works by mimicking the action of the GLP-1 hormone. This hormone helps regulate blood sugar levels, slow down the digestion process in the stomach, and reduce the liver’s production of glucose. These actions combined help to lower blood sugar levels and, over time, may contribute to weight loss for some people.7
- Zepbound (tirzepatide): Zepbound is an injectable medication FDA-approved for weight loss in obese or overweight patients. It aims to assist with weight loss by delaying the emptying of stomach contents, resulting in a feeling of “fullness.” 8
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide): Mounjaro also contains tirzepatide and is FDA-approved as a treatment for type 2 diabetes. Because of its effects on appetite, it can be used-off-label to promote weight loss.9
Appetite Suppressants
Appetite suppressants work by curbing hunger signals to the brain and promoting a sense of fullness. This can result in lower caloric intake and potential weight loss. These medications are intended for use along with lifestyle changes such as following a balanced reduced-calorie diet and getting adequate exercise.
Some appetite suppressants contain stimulant ingredients. These medications are controlled substances, carrying risks such as misuse or dependence, increased heart rate, and interactions with alcohol.
Here are some stimulant appetite suppressants prescribed as Wegovy alternatives:
- Phendimetrazine: Phendimetrazine is an appetite suppressant FDA-approved as a short-term weight-management drug for patients with obesity. Phendimetrazine works by stimulating the central nervous system to release norepinephrine, a chemical in the body that may help decrease appetite.10
- Phentermine: Phentermine, sold under the brand names Adipex-P and Lomaira, is FDA-approved as a short-term weight loss medication to reduce appetite in people with obesity. It is to be used in combination with lifestyle changes. Through its stimulant effects, phentermine promotes a feeling of fullness which may reduce food intake. By acting on the appetite pathway in the brain, phentermine sends signals to the gut that decrease hunger.11
- Qsymia (phentermine & topiramate): Qsymia is a prescription medication used to achieve weight loss and is FDA-approved for long-term use. It is a combination of two drugs, phentermine and topiramate, that help suppress appetite and increase feelings of fullness. Phentermine is a stimulant that acts on the central nervous system, while topiramate is an anticonvulsant that can help reduce food cravings.12
Other Prescription Weight Loss Medications
Other prescription weight loss medications are available as alternatives to Wegovy for weight management.
- Contrave (naltrexone & bupropion): Contrave is an FDA-approved non-stimulant medication used to promote weight loss in adults with chronic obesity. It is used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and exercise. Contrave combines naltrexone and bupropion to influence the brain’s appetite and reward system, reducing cravings and increasing calorie burning.13
- Xenical (orlistat): Orlistat, available as Xenical, is an FDA-approved prescription medicine used in conjunction with a low-calorie diet to increase weight loss in individuals with obesity.Orlistat works by blocking the absorption of dietary fat into the intestines. This leads to a reduction in calorie intake and promotes weight loss.14
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How to Get a Prescription for Wegovy Alternative Medications
To get prescribed Wegovy online or in person, you will first need an evaluation to determine whether it is a good fit for your weight management needs. The process of getting a diagnosis and potentially prescribed Wegovy online or in person may vary for people of different ages.
It is important to find an online provider who can prescribe peptide weight loss medications like Wegovy, such as PlushCare and Circle Medical. We have thoroughly reviewed these platforms, and in using the services ourselves, we have found them each to be a good place to get started with an evaluation.
A good place to start for an in-person medical evaluation is with your primary care provider. This may be a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. If they determine it is needed, they can refer you or your child to a specialist, such as a bariatric physician. They can further evaluate whether to include Wegovy as a part of the treatment plan for you.
Non-prescription Alternatives for Wegovy
Some wanting help with weight management may consider non-prescription alternatives to Wegovy. Over-the-counter treatments, lifestyle changes, and holistic therapies are non-prescription alternatives for addressing weight management needs. These options vary in effectiveness and research support.
Discuss these alternatives with your primary provider to understand which may be most helpful to you. Before taking an over-the-counter treatment or supplement, consult with your primary provider as they can interact with other substances and medications.
Wegovy Over-the-counter (OTC) Alternatives
Alli is an OTC form of orlistat, the active ingredient in the prescription weight loss medication Xenical.15 Alli is the only OTC weight loss treatment that has been approved by the FDA. The dosage for Alli is lower than for prescription Xenical, but it may be effective enough for some. Alli is intended to be used with diet changes and regular exercises to promote weight loss.
Many over-the-counter and natural products claim to help with weight management. However, quality studies are limited and have yet to show whether such supplements improve anxiety symptoms. Even without scientific support, some individuals may find these remedies helpful.
Supplement and natural alternatives to Wegovy for weight loss include:
- Dietary fiber: Found in fruits and grains, dietary fiber promotes fullness, regulates blood sugar, and aids digestion. For some, these effects may support weight loss efforts. Psyllium husk is another form of dietary fiber that comes in capsules, tablets, or powder form.
- Berberine: This extract may regulate metabolism and improve insulin sensitivity, which may help with weight management.16
- Green tea extract: Known for its antioxidants, green tea extract might boost metabolism and fat burning. However, scientific consensus is mixed.17
- Ginger: Ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties may enhance digestion and control appetite.17
- Turmeric: Turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, has anti-inflammatory properties that could indirectly aid in weight management.17
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes can be highly effective alternatives to Wegovy. And for some, lifestyle changes alone may be enough to meet weight management goals. Healthy activities and routines can also enhance the results of using weight loss medications.
- Physical exercise: Increasing physical activity is a first-line recommendation for weight reduction. 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity such as walking is recommended.
- Healthy diet: Following a diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats is another first-line recommendation for promoting weight loss. A balanced diet also supports brain health and mood regulation, which may also impact a person’s weight gain or loss.
- Stress management: Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises, can also support weight loss by addressing emotional and stress-induced eating patterns.
- Acupuncture: While the scientific evidence supporting acupuncture’s direct impact on weight loss is inconclusive, its potential role in stress reduction may indirectly aid weight management.
Questions to Ask Your Provider
When considering a Wegovy alternative medication, consult your doctor and pharmacist to better understand what treatment may be the best fit for you. Prepare for your appointment by creating a list of questions addressing issues such as side effects, effectiveness, other medications you take, and more.
Questions to ask your care team about Wegovy alternatives include:
- Is it safe to take weight loss medication with my other medications?
- Am I at risk for side effects from weight loss medications or supplements if I am already taking other medications, such as antidepressants?
- What weight loss medications should I consider for fewer side effects?
- If I experience constipation as a side effect, are there any laxatives or dietary adjustments recommended?
- How can I tell the difference between the potential side effects of a weight loss medication and symptoms of other conditions, such as a stomach bug?
- Are there non-pharmacological approaches to weight loss that I should explore first?
- How do the potential benefits of Wegovy compare to other weight loss medications?
- Can you provide information on the long-term effects of the recommended alternatives?
- Are there lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, that could be more effective or complementary?
- What is the success rate of suggested weight loss and maintenance alternatives?
- Are there support groups or counseling options to enhance the effectiveness of non-prescription approaches?
- What is the impact of the recommended alternatives on mental health, considering factors like mood and energy levels?
- Can you help me understand the financial implications and insurance coverage for the suggested alternatives?
Prescriber’s Tips
- Take your medication as prescribed, do not change your dose or stop taking it unless your prescriber tells you to. Keeping a consistent dosing schedule reduces the chance of unwanted side effects and withdrawal symptoms.
- Take your medication at the same time each day. Doing so can help you remember to take it, making it as effective as possible. Your healthcare provider can help determine the optimal timing based on individual factors.
- Tell your provider your complete medical history. Each type of weight loss medication carries risk and some medications are not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions. Your provider can determine which medications may be safest and most effective for you.
- Tell your prescriber about all medications and supplements you take, including over-the-counter treatments. Many over-the-counter medications and supplements can interact with prescription medications.
- For optimal results with your weight loss medication, follow a healthy diet as recommended by your provider. Weight loss medications are more effective when combined with a balanced diet rich in whole foods, proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.3,6,7
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Might I Need to Consider a Wegovy Alternative?
Wegovy alternatives may be needed for people who have taken Wegovy but did not respond well enough, had an allergic reaction, or had intolerable side effects. Wegovy can also interact with other substances and medications.
Is There a Generic Version of Wegovy?
No. There is no FDA-approved generic version of Ozempic (semaglutide) available on the market.
What Is a Cheaper Alternative to Wegovy?
Other prescription weight loss medications, compounded semaglutide, and over-the-counter weight loss options are available. The effectiveness and safety of these treatments may vary for each person.
Do I Need to Consider a Wegovy Alternative If I’m Pregnant or Breastfeeding?
It’s possible. The impact of weight loss medications is unclear on pregnancy and breastfeeding and may not be recommended. Patients and prescribers need to weigh the risks and benefits of these medications for each situation.
What If I Switch to a Wegovy Alternative & It Still Doesn’t Work for Me?
Some people try more than one medication before they find one that works for them. Consult your prescriber about which medications may work for you and how to safely make a change, if needed.
How Long Should I Take Wegovy Before I Consider an Alternative?
It may depend on the reason for considering a Wegovy alternative. Seek immediate medical care if you experience symptoms of a medication interaction, serious side effect, or an allergic reaction. When evaluating side effects and symptom improvement, it may take several weeks to observe changes and make a determination.
Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
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Wegovy – semaglutide injection, solution. (April 23, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Obesity Medicine Association. (2023). Top Weight Loss Medications. Obesity Medicine Association. Retrieved from https://obesitymedicine.org/blog/weight-loss-medications/
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Ozempic – semaglutide injection, solution. (November 22, 2023). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Rybelsus – oral semaglutide tablet. (November 1, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Saxenda – liraglutide injection, solution. (January 26, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Victoza – liraglutide injection. (November 1, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Trulicity – dulaglutide injection, solution. (November 1, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Zepbound – tirzepatide injection, solution. (October 23, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Mounjaro – tirzepatide injection, solution. (November 1, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Phendimetrazine tartrate capsule, extended release. (August 24, 2023). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Phentermine hydrochloride capsule. (April 18, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Qysymia – phentermine and topiramate capsule, extended release. (October 3, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Contrave extended-release – naltrexone hydrochloride and bupropion hydrochloride tablet, extended release. (May 21, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Xenical – orlistat capsule. (July 8, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Alli – orlistat capsule. (March 27, 2023). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Xie, W., Gu, D., Li, J., Cui, K., & Zhang, Y. (2011). Effects and action mechanisms of berberine and Rhizoma coptidis on gut microbes and obesity in high-fat diet-fed C57BL/6J mice. PloS one, 6(9), e24520. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3167861/
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Sun, N.-N., Wu, T.-Y., & Chau, C.-F. (2016). Natural dietary and herbal products in anti-obesity treatment. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6273667/
We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Retitled and revised/expanded “Prescription Wegovy Alternatives” to “What Medications Are Alternatives to Wegovy?”. Added new sections “Peptide Weight Loss Medications”, “Appetite Suppressants”, and “Other Weight Loss Medications”, “Key Takeaways”, “How to Get a Prescription for Wegovy Alternatives”. Retitled sections “Questions to Ask Your Health Team” to “Questions to Ask Your Provider”. Retitled and expanded “In My Experience” section to “Prescriber’s Tips”. Removed “How Effective Are Herbal Remedies & Over-the-counter Alternatives to Wegovy?”, “How Effective Are Lifestyle Changes as an Alternative to Wegovy?”, “For Further Reading”. Added FAQs.
Author: Elyar Gasanli, PharmD
Medical Reviewer: Heidi Moawad, MD
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