Is there a Generic for Ozempic?

Key Takeaways

Ozempic has become well-known in recent years as a weight loss medication. The active ingredient in this drug is called semaglutide. Generic versions of Ozempic are essentially the same as the branded version, as they both contain semaglutide. Whether you get the branded or generic version, the medication will have the same impact. Ahara’s compounded semaglutide is a great alternative for Ozempic that doesn’t have the high cost associated with a brand name. 

It can be confusing to navigate the world of pharmaceuticals, especially because there are usually multiple names for the same drugs. That’s right, most drugs have both a generic and brand name. Oftentimes, the same generic drug can be sold under more than one different brand name. 

You have probably heard of the popular weight loss medication Ozempic. Ozempic is the brand name of the generic name semaglutide. Although there is not an FDA-approved generic form of semaglutide, you can get semaglutide in forms other than just Ozempic. This article will delve into the meaning of generic name versus brand-name for drugs. This article will also specifically focus on compounded versions of semaglutide. 

Ozempic and Its Role in Weight Loss

Ozempic is a brand-name version of the medication semaglutide. This prescription medication comes in the form of a weekly injection and supports weight loss in several ways. By slowing down the digestive process and increasing feelings of satisfaction, this medication helps you eat less and feel full for longer. 

Ozempic falls under the medication category of being a glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. The GLP-1 hormone naturally occurs in the body and binds to special receptors that help communicate to the brain. When you take Ozempic, it acts as this hormone, binding the GLP-1 receptors which can have several effects, one of which is that it increases feelings of fullness and reduces appetite. 

Another effect that Ozempic has on the body is that it slows down the digestive process. This means that when you eat, food will move more slowly through the body. These two actions of Ozempic are what makes it such an effective weight loss medication. It will help you eat less, leading to a calorie deficit and helping to shed weight. 

It is important to keep in mind that even though semaglutide has been scientifically proven to help with weight loss, it is also most beneficial when paired with other healthy lifestyle habits. Those taking Ozempic should expect to exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet while taking the drug in order to see optimal effects. 

Ozempic vs Generic

All prescription medications will have two names: a generic name and a brand name. The generic name is often a shortened name for the drug’s active chemical. Sometimes, the same generic drug will be sold under more than one different brand name. Ozempic is a brand name for the active ingredient semaglutide. Ahara offers a compounded semaglutide that is an alternative to Ozempic. Semaglutide is available under other brand names such as Wegovy and Rybelsus. Different brand names may market the drug differently, they may sell the drug in different dosages or with unique recommendations and indications for usage. 

The brand names of semaglutide listed above are all FDA approved. Ozempic is FDA approved for controlling blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes but it can be prescribed “off-label” for weight loss. The FDA-approved usage of Wegovy is specifically for weight loss and weight control. Rybelsus is a tablet that is taken by mouth and is used to control blood sugar in people who have type 2 diabetes. 

There is not an FDA-approved generic version of semaglutide. The closest thing to generic semaglutide that is available to the general public would be compounded semaglutide. This is semaglutide that is mixed by compounding pharmacies, but it is not FDA-approved.

Just because compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved does not mean that it is not safe. It is important to be mindful when acquiring compounded semaglutide to ensure that you are getting it from a safe and reliable source. Compounded semaglutide can be a lower-cost option than brand name versions and it can be custom mixed to meet certain needs, such as those who have allergies to certain additives. A good place to start when looking for a compounding pharmacy is to check for either PCAB accreditation or 503b registration from the FDA.

Are Ozempic and semaglutide the same? 

Technically, the main active ingredient in Ozempic is semaglutide. However, different formulations of semaglutide can vary in cost, effectiveness, dosage, and availability. So not all forms of semaglutide are created equal. When it comes to the way it affects the body, semaglutide is going to work in the same way as Ozempic. 

What is compounded semaglutide? 

Compounded semaglutide is a prescription medication that acts on the body in the same way as Ozempic since it contains the same active ingredient. The main difference between compounded semaglutide and Ozempic is that compounded semaglutide is custom mixed. This means it can be made at special dosages or with or without certain additives depending on personal preference and needs. Another difference is that compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved.

Compounded semaglutide still requires a prescription from a doctor like Ozempic does but it often costs less. Keep in mind, compounded semaglutide is less regulated than Ozempic. This isn’t exactly a bad thing, it just means that you need to pay attention to where you get your semaglutide from and only purchase from a trusted source. 

Is Ozempic better than the compounded semaglutide?

There are pros and cons to consider when determining what form of semaglutide is best for you. Ozempic is more regulated than compounded semaglutide and often costs more. Compounded semaglutide, from a trusted source, is still considered safe and costs less.

Ozempic is not technically FDA-approved for weight loss alone. If you are someone who has type 2 diabetes, Ozempic may be a good option for you since this is the purpose of the medication. If you are only considering this type of medication for weight loss alone, you may have to get prescribed Ozempic off-label which can be costly since insurance won’t cover it. Additionally, if any drug shortages happen, then Ozempic will be prioritized for those who have type 2 diabetes and you may have to change to a different weight loss medication anyway. Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight loss, but it may also have similar challenges.

Compounded semaglutide comes at a more affordable price and can be custom-made to fit your unique needs. This is important for people who are on a tighter budget and who need to exclude certain additives due to allergies or who want additional ingredients added. Sometimes compounded semaglutide has vitamin B12 added to it to help prevent vitamin deficiencies while losing weight. 

Ozempic versus Semaglutide Side Effects 

Because semaglutide is the active ingredient in Ozempic, you can expect to experience similar side effects across the two medications. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on your dosage. For example, taking a stronger dosage will typically cause more severe side effects. You can also expect side effects to be more severe when you first begin the medication and when dosages increase. Common side effects of Ozempic and semaglutide include:

‍

• Nausea and vomiting. Because semaglutide slows down digestion, it can take some time to get used to these effects and digestive issues like nausea and vomiting are common. You’ll need to eat less when you’re on semaglutide. If you keep eating in the same way as you did when you first begin the medication you may experience nausea and vomiting. 
• Diarrhea. Since semaglutide has effects on your digestive tract it can cause diarrhea while your body adjusts to the medication. Semaglutide also affects how your body absorbs nutrients which can cause your digestive processes to change. 
• Constipation. Semaglutide works by slowing your digestion which can sometimes lead to constipation. 
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, headache. Because semaglutide lowers blood sugar, it can cause symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, and headache. Your doctor may recommend that you monitor your blood sugar while taking it even if you are not diabetic. 

Important Financial Considerations for Ozempic

Before starting Ozempic, it is important to be aware of the cost and commitment involved. In order to experience lasting results from Ozempic, you’ll have to stay on the medication long-term. This means you’ll have to pay for it continuously. Depending on your insurance plan, you may have to pay out-of-pocket for Ozempic or Wegovy.

How much does Ozempic cost?

Without insurance, you can expect to pay around $935 per month for Ozempic. Certain methods can help lower this cost such as copay savings programs. It is important to consider if the cost of Ozempic is something that you can realistically commit to before you begin the medication. If this cost is unrealistic for you, you should talk with your doctor about additional resources and alternative medication options like compounded semaglutide. 

Ozempic versus Compounded Semaglutide: Cost Comparison

Generic Ozempic or semaglutide is going to typically cost much less than brand name Ozempic. Ahara provides a convenient and affordable way to get semaglutide. Our service costs $195 for the first month and $255 per month after that.

We provide a method to get prescribed compounded semaglutide without having to leave your home. You’ll work with a virtual provider to determine if you’re a good candidate and if they believe you are, they’ll write your prescription which you can easily use to order semaglutide online. You can also use our platform to schedule ongoing visits with your provider and you’ll receive access to nutritional support from registered dietitians. 

Overall, you can expect to pay less when using a generic version of Ozempic like compounded semaglutide if your main concern is weight loss. If you have type 2 diabetes, then Ozempic would probably be a better option since your insurance is likely to cover some of the cost in this situation. 

Ways to Reduce Cost Beyond Switching Medication

If the cost of Ozempic is intimidating for you, you may want to consider some options for lowering the cost. There are resources out there that can help you reduce the cost of Ozempic without having to switch to an alternative medication, some examples are listed below. 

Savings Cards

Prescription savings cards are available for people who are prescribed Generic Ozempic for type 2 diabetes. These savings cards are available through the drug manufacturer Novo Nordisk. This is for people who have commercial insurance and can be applied for online. 

Prescription Discount Cards

A prescription discount card may help you get Ozempic at a lower price. These cards work by negotiating between pharmacy benefits managers (PBM) and pharmacies to get the lowest prices on medications. Prescription discount cards can be used at many different pharmacies such as CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart.

Patient Assistance Programs

Patient assistance programs can help people who have lower incomes get prescription medications at a lower cost. Eligibility for patient assistance programs will depend on your income (you can not earn over a certain amount) and the type of medication.

HSA or FSA Accounts

A Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) can provide a designated account where you save up money to put towards your Ozempic costs. These accounts allow you to save portions of your paycheck without tax deductions and can grow significantly over time when contributed to regularly. HSA accounts are specifically used for health-related costs while FSA accounts can be used for other things as well. 

Talk with Your Provider

If you’re concerned about your ability to afford Ozempic, ask your doctor if they can offer any suggestions on ways to make the medication more affordable. They may be able to provide you with additional resources to help make the medication more affordable. 

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right GLP-1 Medication

The perfect weight loss plan will look different for everyone. It is important to consider your options when deciding what weight loss medications to get started on. Ozempic and semaglutide work in the same ways to promote weight loss. When comparing Ozempic with compounded semaglutide, you can expect a difference in cost and availability. 

Brand name Ozempic will be better regulated than compounded semaglutide but there are reliable sources for compounded semaglutide. Compounded semaglutide is custom-mixed to fit your unique needs, whether that means adding ingredients or taking them away. Ahara offers a convenient and straightforward method for getting compounded semaglutide delivered right to your door.