Ozempic vs Wegovy: What's the Difference? (UK Guide 2026)

What is the difference between Ozempic and Wegovy? Both contain semaglutide and are made by Novo Nordisk, but they are licensed for different conditions and come in different doses. This guide explains which is which and which you should use for weight loss in the UK.

Key differences at a glance

| | Ozempic | Wegovy | |---|---|---| | Active ingredient | Semaglutide | Semaglutide | | Manufacturer | Novo Nordisk | Novo Nordisk | | Licensed for | Type 2 diabetes | Weight management | | Maximum dose | 1mg weekly | 2.4mg weekly | | Average weight loss | ~10% | ~15% | | NHS availability | Yes (for diabetes) | Limited (specialist services) | | Private availability | Yes (off-label for weight loss) | Yes |

Why do doctors prescribe Ozempic for weight loss?

Ozempic is only licensed for type 2 diabetes in the UK, but doctors can prescribe it "off-label" for weight management. This happens because:

• Supply issues: Wegovy has experienced stock shortages since its UK launch
• Cost: Ozempic can be cheaper than Wegovy from some providers
• Existing prescription: Some patients started on Ozempic for diabetes and continue it for weight management

However, if weight loss is your primary goal, Wegovy at the full 2.4mg dose is the recommended choice because it produces significantly more weight loss than Ozempic's maximum 1mg dose.

Weight loss comparison

| | Ozempic 1mg | Wegovy 2.4mg | |---|---|---| | Average weight loss | 9.6% of body weight | 15% of body weight | | For a 100kg person | ~10kg | ~15kg | | Patients losing >10% | 44% | 69% |

The difference is substantial: Wegovy at full dose produces roughly 50% more weight loss than Ozempic.

Dose comparison

Ozempic: 0.25mg (weeks 1–4) → 0.5mg (week 5+) → 1mg (if needed)

Wegovy: 0.25mg → 0.5mg → 1mg → 1.7mg → 2.4mg (each step is 4 weeks)

Both start at the same 0.25mg dose, but Wegovy continues escalating to 2.4mg while Ozempic stops at 1mg.

Cost comparison

| | Ozempic | Wegovy | |---|---|---| | Typical weekly cost | £30–55/week | £35–70/week | | Typical monthly cost | £120–220/month | £140–280/month |

Ozempic is generally cheaper per week, but remember it produces less weight loss. On a cost-per-kg-lost basis, Wegovy or Mounjaro may offer better value.

Should I choose Ozempic or Wegovy?

Choose Wegovy if:

• Weight loss is your primary goal
• You want the maximum semaglutide dose (2.4mg)
• You want to use the medication as licensed (not off-label)

Choose Ozempic if:

• You also have type 2 diabetes
• Wegovy is out of stock at your provider
• Your prescriber recommends starting at a lower maximum dose
• Cost is a primary concern

Consider Mounjaro instead: Mounjaro (tirzepatide) produces more weight loss than either Ozempic or Wegovy and is often cheaper. It is worth discussing with your prescriber.

Compare all weight loss medication prices

Related guides

• Mounjaro vs Wegovy: Which Is Better? — head-to-head comparison
• Mounjaro vs Wegovy Side Effects — side effect comparison
• GLP-1 Weight Loss Injections: Complete Guide — all options explained
• Nevolat: The Saxenda Replacement — daily injection guide
• Ozempic vs Wegovy — same drug, different doses