What are the alternatives to Wegovy?
The launch of Wegovy has been delayed in the UK. We list the four main alternatives to get you going on your weight loss journey, including "Wegovy in a pill" from same manufacturer
1. Rybelsus ("Wegovy in a pill")
An obvious replacement for Wegovy is Rybelsus - which contains the same active ingredient as Wegovy, Semaglutide, but is taken as a pill.
Rybelsus is an oral form of semaglutide is a medication used to treat obesity and overweight patients with a BMI of 27 or greater who also have at least one weight-related health condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. Rybelsus is taken orally once a day without food, after you wake up - at least 30min before you have your breakfast.
2. Saxenda (Liraglutide)
According to the clinical trial data, Saxenda has a very similar weight loss profile to Wegovy in the first few months. Like Wegovy, Saxenda is manufactured by Novo Nordisk, the Danish pharmaceutical company, but has a different active ingredient - Liraglutide. Saxenda is licensed for weight loss and is an injectable pen which is taken daily. It works in exactly the same way as Wegovy - by making users feel full so they eat less and lose weight.
3. Trulicity (Dulaglutide)
Trulicity (based on the active ingredient dulaglutide) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1) that helps to control blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin secretion and reducing glucagon production. It is administered through a pre-filled pen device, which contains a single dose of the medication. Trulicity is made by Eli Lilly, the US pharmaceutical company behind Tirzepatide, a highly-effective weight loss drug which is expected to be made available in the UK laster this year. Clinical trials have shown that Trulicity is effective in reducing blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes and produces a lower risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack or stroke.
4. Orlistat / Xenical
For the most price-conscious, the obvious option is Orlistat, which is also marketed as Xenical. Orlistat works by blocking the absorption of some of the fat consumed in the diet. It is taken orally up to three times per day. Studies have shown that, on average, people taking Orlistat may lose up to 5% to 10% of their initial body weight over six months to a year. There is no dose increase or titration period with Orlistat. The recommended dose is one 120mg capsule taken with each main meal that contains fat, up to three times per day.
So, don't worry, we've got you covered
The delay to the UK launch of Wegovy will be a disappointment to many. However, CheqUp provides a full range of options and support options which ensure that you are properly cared for regardless of the medication you are taking.
Published: 04 May 2023