The GLP-1 medications

Ozempic is the diabetes brand of semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics the gut hormone GLP-1, which is released after eating and signals fullness to the brain, slows how fast the stomach empties, and helps regulate blood sugar.

Wegovy is the weight-management brand of semaglutide, the same GLP-1 receptor agonist as Ozempic but dosed for obesity treatment. It reduces appetite and food noise, slows gastric emptying, and increases fullness.

Zepbound is the weight-management brand of tirzepatide, a dual agonist that activates both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors. The added GIP activity is thought to contribute to its strong appetite and metabolic effects.

Mounjaro is the type 2 diabetes brand of tirzepatide, a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist. It lowers blood sugar and, like its weight-management twin Zepbound, strongly reduces appetite.

Saxenda is liraglutide, an earlier, shorter-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for weight management. Unlike the once-weekly newer drugs, it is injected once daily.

Rybelsus is oral semaglutide, the only GLP-1 receptor agonist in pill form. It delivers the same molecule as Ozempic and Wegovy but is taken daily by mouth, with specific instructions about timing and water to ensure absorption.