5 Best Ozempic and Wegovy Alternatives for Weightlosss
There are 5 categories of semaglutide alternatives for blood sugar control: (1) GLP-1 drugs such as exenatide, liraglutide, and dulaglutide; (2) DPP-4 inhibitors (e.g., sitagliptin, linagliptin), (3) SGLT2 inhibitors (e.g., canagliflozin, dapagliflozin), (4) metformin, and (5) natural supplements such as cinnamon, berberine, and bitter melon. These alternatives work through different mechanisms and have varying clinical evidence and side effects. GLP-1 drugs are the most effective alternatives to semaglutide, while the efficacy of natural supplements is less established and requires further research. Consult with healthcare professionals before making changes to diabetes management plans.
Drug Name | Evidence of Efficacy in Aiding Weight Loss |
|---|---|
| Exenatide (Byetta, Bydureon) | Studies have shown that exenatide can lead to weight loss, possibly due to its effects on slowing gastric emptying and increasing feelings of fullness. |
| Liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda) | A higher dose of Liraglutide (3.0 mg) is approved for weight management in adults with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or greater who have at least one weight-related condition, or in adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or greater. |
| Dulaglutide (Trulicity) | Dulaglutide has been associated with weight loss in clinical trials. The precise mechanism of weight loss with dulaglutide is not known. |
| Sitagliptin (Januvia), Linagliptin (Tradjenta) | These DPP-4 inhibitors are weight-neutral, meaning they do not typically cause weight gain or loss. |
| Canagliflozin (Invokana), Dapagliflozin (Farxiga), Empagliflozin (Jardiance) | SGLT2 inhibitors have been associated with modest weight loss in clinical trials, possibly due to the increased glucose excretion in the urine. |
| Metformin | Metformin is typically weight neutral, but some people may experience slight weight loss, possibly due to improved insulin sensitivity and decreased appetite. (source) |
| Cinnamon, Berberine, Bitter Melon | While these natural supplements may have potential blood sugar-lowering effects, the evidence for their efficacy in aiding weight loss is limited and inconsistent. More research is needed. |
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Khang T. Vuong received his Master of Healthcare Administration from the Milken Institute School of Public Health at the George Washington University. He was named Forbes Healthcare 2021 30 under 30. Vuong spoke at Stanford Medicine X, HIMSS conference, and served as a Fellow at the Bon Secours Health System.