PMID: 16352683
3 million CVS Caremark plan members now have access to proven results in this program, which is optimizing the effectiveness of GLP-1 weight loss drugs while lowering pharmacy costs
Researchers noted in a 2024 observational study published in Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism that both types of semaglutide usage resulted in weight loss, averaging 3.5 kg at 18 months and an A1c decrease of 0.9%.8 The study participants were quite homogenous (mostly men, mean age 64, overweight) and researchers theorize a more diverse population is needed to apply these results to broader groups.8 However, it appears older individuals who have chronic vs acute health complications may respond better to an oral semaglutide, while obese individuals on metformin may find more benefit from subcutaneous semaglutide.9 In a study published in the Journal of Endocrinological Investigation , researchers collected data on 292 diabetic patients and found that while both forms successfully lowered blood sugar and weight, the subcutaneous version of semaglutide had a greater positive impact on A1c, weight loss, waist circumference, and BMI in obese individuals.9 Wegovy is another injectable formulation of semaglutide which is FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management in adults and pediatric patients (aged 12 and up) with obesity or those who are overweight and have at least one weight-related comorbidity (eg, T2DM, hypertension, dyslipidema).7 The dosing schedule begins at 0.25 mg weekly, increasing every four weeks to 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 1.7 mg, with a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg/week by week 17.7 Wegovy has shown significant weight loss outcomes, with some individuals achieving 10% weight loss maintained over 12 to 24 months.4,10,11 While Ozempic and Wegovy contain the same active ingredient, only Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight management
Switching to a liposomal format usually solves this problem because the nutrient is protected and absorbed differently
