Ozempic and Wegovy are both forms of semaglutide, a drug originally developed for diabetes.
OEL SAGET/AFP via Getty ImagesOzempic and Wegovy are the brand names used by the drug manufacturer, Novo Nordisk.
Tirzepatide, marketed as Mounjaro, is a similar "game-changer" drug, and is yet to be approved for weight loss but can be used off-label for this purpose.
Ozempic has become the byword for semaglutide and similar drugs that cause weight loss, regardless of which brand a person is taking or why.
They work by suppressing appetite, but side effects such as muscle loss, nausea, and diarrhea have been reported, and it's common to regain the weight after stopping treatment.
Persons:
SAGET
Organizations:
Getty, Novo Nordisk, Semaglutide, FDA
Locations:
AFP