What you’ll learn:       

• Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® are GLP-1 receptor agonists that are FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes and can be prescribed off-label for weight loss.
• Both medications are taken as once-weekly injections with pre-loaded injection pens.
• You will most likely lose more weight with Ozempic^®, but individual results will vary.

Reaching a healthy weight can be difficult. Sometimes, people don’t see the results they’re looking for, even when making smart food choices and staying active. That’s why many are turning to medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists, like Ozempic^® and Trulicity^®, to get the scale moving again. These medications were both developed to manage type 2 diabetes but have proven to be effective when prescribed off-label for weight loss.

How do they work? Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® contain different active ingredients—semaglutide and dulaglutide—but they work similarly in the body. Both mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which reduces appetite, slows digestion, and regulates blood sugar, helping people eat less and lose weight. 

The biggest hurdle to starting treatment with Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® is often the cost. Without insurance, both have a list price of close to $1,000 per month. Even with coverage, which is rare, out-of-pocket costs vary based on insurance plans and manufacturer savings programs. There are ways to save and make Ozempic^® or Trulicity^® treatment work for you, including considering other similar medications as alternatives.

Let’s compare them side by side to see how much weight you can lose, what they’ll cost, and the side effects to discover whether one might be better for you. We’ll also explore lower-cost alternatives you can consider to help you lose weight.

Ozempic^® vs. Trulicity^®: How they work

Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® are once-weekly injectable GLP-1 medications that help regulate blood sugar levels and support weight loss. Let’s take a closer look at their active ingredients:

• Semaglutide: Ozempic^® contains semaglutide, which is more potent than dulaglutide. It typically leads to more substantial appetite suppression and more significant weight loss. In one trial, semaglutide resulted in more than double the weight loss of dulaglutide.
• Dulaglutide: Trulicity^® contains dulaglutide. Its weight loss effects are generally more modest than semaglutide. It may still be a good option for those whose primary focus is blood sugar control over significant weight loss.

Ozempic^® vs. Trulicity^®: The differences

We already know that Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® have different active ingredients. They also have different effectiveness, dosing, and cost. Here’s how they compare:

Effectiveness

While both medications belong to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class and work by slowing digestion, suppressing appetite, and regulating blood sugar, they don’t have the same effect on weight loss. Semaglutide binds more effectively to GLP-1 receptors and stays active longer than GLP-1 medications developed earlier, like dulaglutide. Here’s what you can expect with each over time:

• Semaglutide (Ozempic^®) led to an average weight loss of 10 to 15% of body weight over two years. Weight loss at the one-year mark was about 8 to 10%.
• Dulaglutide (Trulicity^®) led to an average weight loss of 3 to 5% of body weight in one year.

Dosing

Both medications follow a step-up dosing schedule, meaning your doctor will gradually increase your dose to help your body adjust and minimize side effects:

• Ozempic^®: Starts at 0.25 mg once weekly and increases as needed to a maximum of 2 mg per week. 
• Trulicity^®: Starts at 0.75 mg once weekly and can be increased to 4.5 mg per week, depending on response and tolerance.

Price

Cost is another important factor when choosing between Ozempic^® and Trulicity^®.

• Ozempic^®: The list price is about $998 per month, regardless of dose. It may be covered for diabetes but typically isn’t for off-label weight loss. Here’s a full breakdown of the cost of Ozempic^® with and without insurance.
• Trulicity^®: The list price is about $987 per month, making it similar to Ozempic^®. Insurance might cover it for diabetes management but rarely for weight loss.

Even with insurance, you can still sometimes pay a lot for these two medications. Manufacturer savings programs, pharmacy discounts, and online discounts can help reduce costs. Pricing can vary by pharmacy, location, and available discounts, so checking with your provider and finding the right pharmacy is key.

Manufacturers

While both medications belong to the GLP-1 receptor agonist family, they are manufactured by different pharmaceutical companies, each with a broad portfolio of treatments. 

• Novo Nordisk makes Ozempic^®, as well as two other semaglutide-based medications, Wegovy^® and Rybelsus^®. It also produces the liraglutide-based medications Victoza^® and Saxenda^®.
• Eli Lilly manufactures Trulicity^®, along with the tirzepatide-based medications Mounjaro^® and Zepbound^®.

Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly dominate the market for GLP-1 medications, producing most of the widely used options for blood sugar regulation and weight management. 

Ozempic^® vs. Trulicity^®: The similarities

Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® have a lot in common because they are both GLP-1 receptor agonists designed to help manage type 2 diabetes.

• Basic action: Both medications help regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and suppress appetite, which can contribute to weight loss.
• How they’re taken: They are both once-weekly injections that you give yourself through an easy-to-use prefilled pen. (Don’t worry; most people report that the tiny needle makes the injection nearly pain-free.)
• They have common side effects: Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® can cause nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal discomfort, especially when first starting or increasing the dose. They also have some other serious warnings associated with them that we will discuss.

Can you switch between Ozempic^® and Trulicity^®?

Yes, switching between Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® is possible, but it should always be done under medical supervision. Your doctor will assess factors like blood sugar control, weight loss progress, side effects, and overall health before making a recommendation. Ozempic^® is generally considered more effective for weight loss, but individual response varies. If your current medication isn’t delivering the results you need, your doctor can help determine if switching is the right move and guide you through the transition safely.

Ozempic^® vs. Trulicity^®: Which is better for weight loss?

Since Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® are both GLP-1 receptor agonists, they help regulate appetite, digestion, and blood sugar levels, which can contribute to weight loss. The semaglutide in Ozempic^® has been shown to lead to greater weight loss than the dulaglutide Trulicity^®.

Clinical studies found that semaglutide resulted in more than double the weight loss compared to dulaglutide. 

That said, not everyone needs the strongest medication to see results. Some people respond well to Trulicity^® or tolerate it better with fewer side effects. Insurance coverage and cost can also play a role, and both might be covered if you also have diabetes, though neither is likely to be covered for weight loss. 

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your weight loss goals, medical history, side effect tolerance, and insurance coverage. Your doctor can help determine which medication is right for you. You can also see if you qualify for Noom Med. If you do, our clinicians can discuss all the weight loss medications available to you and potential costs.

How much weight can you lose on Ozempic^® vs Trulicity^®?

Again, you’ll likely experience more weight loss overall taking semaglutide versus Trulicity^®, so let’s take a look at what happens over time. Your results will vary based on dosage, lifestyle changes, and personal response to the medication. Here’s how they compare:

• Ozempic^®:  Studies have shown that semaglutide can lead to significant weight reduction. In one study, people taking semaglutide lost an average of 6% of their body weight at three months and 11% at six months. Another long-term trial showed an average weight loss of approximately 15% after two years. 
• Trulicity^®: In one study, people taking the highest dose of Trulicity^® lost an average of 5% of body weight in 36 weeks. Lower doses resulted in slightly less weight loss.

How long does it take to see results?

If you’re taking Ozempic^® or Trulicity^®, you might notice some weight loss in the first few weeks, but significant results take time.

As we mentioned earlier, the studies show that weight loss with both medications happens gradually, over months, not weeks. Sticking with treatment and making healthy lifestyle choices can help maximize results with either medication.

Ozempic^® vs. Trulicity^®: Who are they approved for?

Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® are approved for the same conditions and for the same general group of people. They are both FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes and can be prescribed off-label for weight loss. Generally, people will need to have a BMI of 30 or higher or a BMI of 27 or higher with a weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, to get a prescription.

Who shouldn’t take Ozempic^® or Trulicity^®?

Because Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® belong to the same drug class (GLP-1 receptor agonists), they share many of the same safety warnings and contraindications. 

You shouldn’t take Ozempic^® or Trulicity^® if you:

• Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Both medications carry an FDA-boxed warning about a potential thyroid cancer risk based on animal studies.
• Are allergic to their active ingredients (semaglutide for Ozempic^®, dulaglutide for Trulicity^®).
• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. 

Talk to your doctor to see if either is right for you if you have a history of:

• Have a history of pancreatitis, as GLP-1 medications may increase the risk of this condition.
• Have severe gastrointestinal disorders, such as gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying). Both medications slow digestion, which can worsen symptoms.

If you take Trulicity^® or Ozempic^® to lose weight, will you need to keep taking them forever?

It depends. Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® don’t permanently alter how the body manages weight. This means that once the medication is stopped, hunger, cravings, and blood sugar fluctuations may return, making it harder to sustain results without ongoing diet and lifestyle changes. This is why some people continue using them at a lower maintenance dose.

Your best bet for maintaining your results is to eat a balanced diet and incorporate regular activity. A structured plan, like Noom’s weight loss program, can help build lasting behaviors.

If you stop taking Trulicity^® or Ozempic^®, here’s what you should know:

• Weight regain can occur, but it isn’t definite – In a study of the GLP-1s semaglutide and liraglutide, half of the people kept the weight off or lost more, while 18% regained all of their lost weight within a year. 
• Gradually tapering may help – Stopping suddenly may increase the risk of weight regain. A study found that people who tapered off semaglutide maintained a stable weight for 26 weeks compared to those who stopped abruptly.
• Differences between Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® – Since Ozempic^® has been shown to lead to greater weight loss than Trulicity^®, stopping it may lead to more weight regain. 
• Restarting may be an option – If weight regain becomes a concern, your doctor may recommend restarting the medication or exploring alternative treatments.

Trulicity^® vs. Ozempic^®: Costs

The cost of Trulicity^® and Ozempic^® can vary widely depending on insurance coverage, pharmacy pricing, and available discount programs.

• Trulicity^®: The list price for Trulicity^® is about $987 per month. People who have commercial insurance may pay as little as $25 per month with Eli Lilly’s Trulicity^® Savings Card.
• Ozempic®: Ozempic^® costs approximately $998 per month. Insured people with Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic^® Savings Card can pay as little as $25 per month for Ozempic^®. Learn more about the cost of Ozempic.

Savings cards are not available for people with Medicare or Medicaid, but some may qualify for other financial assistance programs. Checking with the manufacturer and your insurance provider can help determine your lowest possible cost.

Does insurance cover Ozempic^® or Trulicity^®?

Coverage for Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® depends on your insurance plan. Since both are FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, they are more likely to be covered for diabetes management but rarely covered when prescribed off-label for weight loss.

For diabetes coverage, prior authorization is required, and insurers may ask for proof that other diabetes treatments, like metformin, didn’t work before approving coverage. Eli Lilly says that 92% of people with private insurance pay $30 or less per month for Trulicity^®. The remaining 8% pay around $239 per month on average, again for diabetes.

For employer-sponsored insurance, coverage varies by company plan. Some employers include GLP-1 medications for diabetes but exclude them for weight loss. If your plan doesn’t cover them, checking with HR or your benefits team may help you explore options.

Since insurance policies change frequently, it’s always best to check directly with your provider for the most up-to-date details on coverage and costs.

Does Medicare cover Ozempic^® or Trulicity^®?

Medicare Part D typically covers both Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® for type 2 diabetes, but not for weight loss. Coverage varies by plan, and out-of-pocket costs depend on the phase of coverage.

• Most people with Medicare pay between $0 and $100 per month for Trulicity^®, while about 30% pay an average of $207.
• Ozempic^® copays generally range from $10 to $50 per month, depending on the plan (for diabetes management).

People who meet income levels may qualify for Extra Help, a federal program that reduces prescription costs to as low as $4 to $9 per month. If eligible, you can apply through the Social Security Administration.

With the 2025 Inflation Reduction Act, Medicare Part D enrollees will see a $2,000 cap on annual out-of-pocket drug costs, potentially lowering expenses for these medications in the future. Since what Medicare covers updates annually, checking your plan each year is the best way to stay informed about coverage and costs.

Ozempic^® vs. Trulicity^®: Side effects

Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® can cause side effects that range in severity. Since they both belong to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class, they share many of the same side effects.

Common side effects

Most people experience some mild to moderate side effects when they begin taking Ozempic^® or Trulicity^® or when adjusting to a higher dose. These may include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea or constipation
• stomach pain
• fatigue

These symptoms usually improve as the body adapts to the medication. Most people can manage the side effects by eating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and slowly increasing the dose as prescribed. If you get your prescription through Noom Med, your clinician can help you work through any side effects. If you get your prescription through your personal doctor and are a Noom member, be sure to use the GLP-1 Companion to manage side effects and craft an exercise plan to reduce any muscle loss while losing weight.

Serious side effects and warnings

While Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® are well-researched and generally safe for most people, they can carry serious risks in some cases. It’s important to follow prescription guidelines and talk to your doctor if you experience symptoms that are concerning.

Boxed warning for Ozempic^® and Trulicity^®

Both Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® have an FDA-boxed warning about a potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). This risk has only been observed in animal studies, and it’s unclear if it applies to humans. 

Get immediate medical help if you experience any of the following:

• Pancreatitis – Symptoms include severe abdominal pain that may spread to your back, with or without vomiting. 
• Vision changes – Any sudden vision loss or changes require immediate medical attention.
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) – Symptoms include dizziness, shakiness, blurred vision, rapid heartbeat, and feeling jittery. This is more common in people taking additional diabetes medications.
• Kidney problems – Dehydration from diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting can worsen kidney function. Watch for reduced urination, swelling in the ankles or legs, fatigue, or shortness of breath.
• Gallbladder issues – Signs include upper abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, or pale-colored stools, which may indicate gallbladder problems.
• Allergic reactions – Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or a rapid heartbeat could indicate a severe allergic reaction. Seek emergency care immediately.

For a detailed list of side effects and safety information, visit the official Trulicity^® website or Ozempic^® safety information. If you experience any concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Other potential side effects of Ozempic^® and Trulicity^®

While Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® have well-documented side effects, some effects have been reported by patients or observed in clinical practice. These include:

• Hair loss – Some people experience temporary hair thinning or increased shedding while on GLP-1 medications. This is likely due to rapid weight loss. In most cases, hair regrows once weight stabilizes.
• Muscle loss (sarcopenia) – Rapid weight loss can lead to muscle loss, especially if protein intake is low or strength training isn’t part of a routine. Preserving muscle is essential for metabolism and overall health.
• “Ozempic^® face” – Some people using Ozempic^® experience a reduction in facial fat they refer to as “Ozempic^® face”. This is likely due to significant weight loss and not a specific side effect of GLP-1 medications.

Ozempic^® vs. Trulicity^®: Which one is safer?

Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® are both GLP-1 medications, so their overall safety profiles are similar. People taking Ozempic^® may be more likely to experience side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Choosing between Ozempic^® or Trulicity^®: Which is right for you?

If weight loss is your #1 goal, Ozempic^® will likely help you lose more weight. But, making a decision about whether to take Ozempic^® or Trulicity^® can also be about insurance coverage, out-of-pocket cost, how they make you feel, and availability. Let’s break them down:

• Weight loss: Again, if weight loss is your main goal, Ozempic^® may be the better option. Studies show it leads to greater weight loss compared to Trulicity^®. 
• Insurance coverage: Both medications are more likely to be covered for type 2 diabetes management. Weight loss coverage is rare. 
• Price: Without insurance, both medications will cost you around $1,000 per month. 
• Side effects: Since both medications belong to the same drug class, they share similar side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, and stomach pain. How your body reacts to them will be the deciding factor.
• Availability: Both Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® have experienced supply shortages, making them difficult to find in some pharmacies. While the FDA has declared the shortage of Ozempic^®  to be resolved, some report trouble finding the medication. Trulicity^® is still in shortage, though manufacturers have stated that all forms of the medication should be available. 

Since each person’s health needs and insurance coverage are different, discussing your options with your doctor or a Noom Med clinician can help you choose the best medication for your goals.

Alternatives to Ozempic^® and Trulicity^®

If Ozempic^® or Trulicity^® isn’t the right fit due to cost, availability, or personal preference, you can consider other medications for weight loss. These include other GLP-1 receptor agonists and non-GLP-1 medications.

Semaglutide medications

Ozempic^® is the most well-known semaglutide medication, but there are two others you can consider: 

• Wegovy^® – Wegovy^® is FDA-approved for weight loss. It can also be prescribed to treat and prevent heart disease. The list price without insurance is around $1,350 per month. (If you need to go beyond the 2 mg dose of Ozempic, you will have to switch to Wegovy^®.) Learn more about the pricing of Wegovy^®.
• Rybelsus^® – Rybelsus^® is semaglutide in pill form. Like Ozempic^®, it is FDA-approved for diabetes management and sometimes prescribed off-label for weight loss. The list price is $998 per month. Learn more about the pricing of Rybelsus^®.

Compounded semaglutide via Noom GLP-1^Rx

Those who need a more affordable alternative can explore compounded semaglutide via Noom GLP-1^Rx. It contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic^® and Wegovy^® at a potentially more affordable price. If you qualify for Noom Med, a clinician can determine whether it is a good option. If prescribed, it will cost $149 for the first month, with medication included. You’ll get access to a clinician to answer your questions and develop a weight loss plan. You can also access all of Noom’s tools, trackers, and fitness programs. Plus, you’ll be part of a community that will motivate you on your weight loss journey.

Tirzepatide Medications

Tirzepatide works similarly to semaglutide but targets GIP receptors along with GLP-1. This dual action may lead to more significant weight loss for some people. In clinical trials, people lost an average of 21% of body weight in 16 months with tirzepatide medications. Here are the options:

• Zepbound^®  – Zepbound^® is FDA-approved for weight loss under the same BMI guidelines as Wegovy^®. It can also be prescribed to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The list price is $1,086 per month without insurance for the prefilled pens. You can get Zepbound cheaper if you go through LilyDirect. They have a vial and syringe option that you measure yourself. Learn more about the pricing of Zepbound^®.
• Mounjaro^®  – Mounjaro^®, like Ozempic^®, is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes but can be prescribed off-label for weight loss. The cost is about $1,080 per month without insurance. Learn more about the pricing of Mounjaro^®.

Liraglutide Medications

Liraglutide is another GLP-1 receptor agonist, but it requires a daily injection instead of a weekly one. Weight loss is likely to be less than with semaglutide or tirzepatide. Here are the medications with liraglutide:

• Saxenda^® —Saxenda^® is FDA-approved for weight loss and to help reduce cardiovascular risk. Its list price is $1,349 per month without insurance. Learn more about the pricing of Saxenda.
• Victoza^® — Victoza^® is FDA-approved for diabetes management and to help reduce cardiovascular risk. It’s also sometimes prescribed off-label for weight loss. Without insurance, the cost ranges from $800 to $1,400 per month. 
• Generic liraglutide – One of the only generic GLP-1 medications available, this form of liraglutide is typically used to manage type 2 diabetes. It costs around $470 for two pens and $704 for three pens.

Other FDA-approved weight loss medications

Other medications may be an option if GLP-1 medications aren’t available or covered. Their effectiveness varies from person to person.

• Metformin – Metformin is typically prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes but is sometimes prescribed off-label for weight loss. 
• Orlistat – Orlistat blocks fat absorption and is taken three times daily with meals. The cost ranges from $50 to $800 per month without insurance.
• Phentermine – Phentermine is a short-term appetite suppressant taken once daily. Prices typically range from $27 to $100 per month without insurance.
• Diethylpropion – This medication is also used as an appetite suppressant and is taken one to three times daily. Costs range from $40 to $85 per month without insurance.
• Naltrexone and bupropion (Contrave)– This combo drug helps reduce appetite and cravings in some people. Through the CurAccess™ Patient Support Program, Contrave^®  costs $99 per month with free shipping. Without this program, prices can range from $600 to $800 per month, depending on insurance.

Finding the right medication depends on your health needs, goals, and insurance coverage. Whether you choose a GLP-1 option or another FDA-approved treatment, working with a healthcare provider can help you determine the best approach for long-term weight management.

Making an informed choice: Ozempic^® or Trulicity^®

Deciding between Ozempic^® and Trulicity^® comes down to your weight loss goals, health needs, and budget. While both medications can help you lose weight, Ozempic^® is likely to be more effective than Trulicity^®. Both drugs come with high costs without insurance and carry similar potential side effects. 

Ultimately, the best medication is the one that aligns with your individual health journey. If you’re considering Ozempic^®, Trulicity^®, or an alternative, working with a healthcare provider can help you find the right fit. If you qualify, Noom Med will connect you with a clinician who can prescribe the right medication for you if needed. 

No matter which path you take, the key to long-term success is combining medication with healthy habits, balanced nutrition, and ongoing support to achieve and maintain your weight loss goals. Find out how Noom can help you achieve your goals today.

Disclaimer: Ozempic^® and Mounjaro^® are not FDA-approved for weight loss but are often prescribed off-label for this purpose. 

Compounded semaglutide available through Noom GLP-1^Rx is produced in an FDA-registered facility but has not been reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy, or quality.