Trimsy

GLP-1 Medication Comparison

An overview of the main GLP-1 and dual GIP/GLP-1 medications currently available. This is general information only — always speak to your doctor about which option is right for you.

Semaglutide (Ozempic)

GLP-1 receptor agonist
Approved for: Type 2 diabetes (off-label for weight loss)

How it works

Mimics the GLP-1 hormone, slowing gastric emptying, reducing appetite, and improving blood sugar regulation.

Administration & Dosing

Weekly injection (pen)

0.25mg → 0.5mg → 1mg → 2mg (gradual titration)

Common side effects

  • •Nausea (especially during dose increases)
  • •Diarrhoea or constipation
  • •Reduced appetite
  • •Headache
  • •Fatigue

Notes

Originally developed for type 2 diabetes. The same active ingredient as Wegovy but at different doses.

Semaglutide (Wegovy)

GLP-1 receptor agonist
Approved for: Chronic weight management

How it works

Same mechanism as Ozempic but approved and dosed specifically for weight management at higher doses.

Administration & Dosing

Weekly injection (pen)

0.25mg → 0.5mg → 1mg → 1.7mg → 2.4mg (gradual titration over 16-20 weeks)

Common side effects

  • •Nausea and vomiting
  • •Diarrhoea or constipation
  • •Abdominal pain
  • •Headache
  • •Fatigue

Notes

Licensed specifically for weight loss. Higher maximum dose than Ozempic. Availability has been limited due to high demand.

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro)

Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist
Approved for: Type 2 diabetes (weight management approvals expanding)

How it works

Activates both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, providing a dual mechanism that may offer enhanced blood sugar control and weight loss.

Administration & Dosing

Weekly injection (pen)

2.5mg → 5mg → 7.5mg → 10mg → 12.5mg → 15mg (gradual titration)

Common side effects

  • •Nausea (tends to be milder than semaglutide for some)
  • •Diarrhoea
  • •Decreased appetite
  • •Injection site reactions
  • •Constipation

Notes

Newer medication with dual-action. Studies have shown significant weight loss results. Branded as Zepbound for weight management in some markets.

Tirzepatide (Zepbound)

Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist
Approved for: Chronic weight management

How it works

Same active ingredient as Mounjaro, specifically branded and approved for weight management.

Administration & Dosing

Weekly injection (pen)

2.5mg → 5mg → 7.5mg → 10mg → 12.5mg → 15mg (gradual titration)

Common side effects

  • •Nausea
  • •Diarrhoea
  • •Decreased appetite
  • •Vomiting
  • •Constipation

Notes

Same molecule as Mounjaro but marketed specifically for obesity/weight management rather than diabetes.

Liraglutide (Saxenda)

GLP-1 receptor agonist
Approved for: Chronic weight management

How it works

Mimics the GLP-1 hormone to reduce appetite and slow gastric emptying. Shorter-acting than semaglutide, requiring daily dosing.

Administration & Dosing

Daily injection (pen)

0.6mg → 1.2mg → 1.8mg → 2.4mg → 3mg (gradual titration over 5 weeks)

Common side effects

  • •Nausea
  • •Diarrhoea or constipation
  • •Low blood sugar
  • •Headache
  • •Injection site reactions

Notes

One of the first GLP-1s approved for weight management. Daily injection may be less convenient but allows more flexible dose adjustments.

Important disclaimer

The information above is compiled from publicly available sources for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Medications affect everyone differently. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any medication. Availability and approved uses may vary by country.