Semaglutide is a GLP‑1 receptor agonist. The injection dose is gradually increased to improve tolerability. Wegovy and Ozempic contain the same active substance, but they are different products with different authorised uses.
What to know
Do not use Ozempic as a self-selected substitute for Wegovy.
Digestive adverse effects are common during initiation and dose escalation.
A sudden loss or rapid worsening of vision requires prompt medical attention.
What a doctor assesses
A medicine is selected only after an individual medical assessment. BMI is one part of the decision, not the decision itself.
- BMI, waist circumference and weight history
- Related conditions and recent test results
- Current medicines, allergies and contraindications
- Previous treatment, goals and ability to attend follow-up
Safety and responsible access
Prescription weight-management medicines can cause adverse effects and are not suitable for everyone. The exact risks, dose escalation and monitoring differ by product. Read the current package leaflet and contact a doctor or pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Questions about this topic
Are Wegovy and Ozempic the same medicine?+
They contain semaglutide, but their authorised uses, doses and product information differ. They should not be substituted without a prescriber’s decision.
Can I decide from this page whether the treatment is suitable for me?+
No. This page is educational. A licensed doctor must consider your history, other medicines, contraindications and local product information.
Official sources
Sources reviewed 12 August 2026.