If you’ve heard about GLP‑1 drugs for diabetes or weight loss, you probably wonder how they differ. The market now includes semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), tirzepatide (Mounjaro), dulaglutide (Trulicity) and a few newer options. All of them work by mimicking a gut hormone that slows appetite and improves blood sugar. But they’re not interchangeable—dose, injection schedule, side‑effects and price can change the whole experience.
1. Dosing frequency. Semaglutide comes once a week, while tirzepatide also uses a weekly shot but starts at a lower dose and ramps up slower. Dulaglutide is weekly, too, but its dose range is tighter. If you hate frequent needles, weekly is the sweet spot; daily GLP‑1s still exist but are less common.
2. Weight‑loss potency. Clinical trials show tirzepatide leads to the biggest average weight drop (up to 15% of body weight). Semaglutide follows with about 10‑12% loss, and dulaglutide is a bit lower, around 5‑7%. Pick the drug that matches how aggressive you want to be.
3. Side‑effect profile. Nausea, vomiting and constipation are the usual trio. Tirzepatide may cause a bit more nausea early on because of its higher potency, while semaglutide’s nausea often eases after a few weeks. Dulaglutide tends to be milder but can still upset the stomach.
4. Cost and insurance coverage. In Canada, prices vary by province and plan. Semaglutide (Wegovy) often tops the list for price, while tirzepatide can be slightly cheaper per dose but may need higher weekly amounts. Check your pharmacy’s list and ask about patient assistance programs.
Start by talking to your doctor about your main goal: blood‑sugar control, weight loss, or both. If you need strong weight loss and can tolerate some early nausea, tirzepatide might be the right pick. If you prefer a well‑known brand with lots of real‑world data, semaglutide (Ozempic for diabetes, Wegovy for weight loss) is a solid choice. For people who want a gentler start, dulaglutide can be a good bridge.
Next, think about how you handle injections. Some users find the pen device for semaglutide easiest, while others like the tactile feel of tirzepatide’s pen. Try a demo at the pharmacy if you can.
Finally, write down any other meds you take. GLP‑1 drugs can slow stomach emptying, which may affect absorption of oral meds like thyroid hormone or birth‑control pills. Your doctor can adjust timing to avoid problems.
Bottom line: there’s no one‑size‑fits‑all GLP‑1. Compare dose schedule, expected weight loss, side‑effects and price, then match that to your lifestyle and health goals. With the right match, you’ll see steady blood‑sugar numbers, a lighter waistline, and fewer cravings—all without spending years guessing.
A clear, jargon‑free comparison of Victoza (liraglutide) with Ozempic, Trulicity, Mounjaro and metformin, covering efficacy, weight loss, safety, cost and how to choose the right option.