Introduction
GLP-1 receptor agonists have become some of the most effective tools for managing type 2 diabetes and supporting weight loss. Below are the most commonly prescribed and well-known GLP-1 medications in 2024, each with FDA approval and growing real-world popularity.
1. Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus)
- Ozempic: Once-weekly injectable for type 2 diabetes; also shown to reduce cardiovascular risk.
- Wegovy: Once-weekly injectable approved for chronic weight management.
- Rybelsus: The first and only oral GLP-1 medication, taken daily for type 2 diabetes.
- Highlights: Significant weight loss (12–17%), HbA1c reductions up to 2%, strong clinical trial backing (SUSTAIN, STEP).
2. Liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda)
- Victoza: Daily injectable for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk reduction.
- Saxenda: Daily injectable for weight management in adults and adolescents aged 12–17.
- Highlights: Modest weight loss (~5–8%), improved glucose control, long track record of safety and efficacy.
3. Dulaglutide (Trulicity)
- Trulicity: Once-weekly injectable for type 2 diabetes; reduces risk of major cardiovascular events.
- Highlights: Easy-to-use auto-injector, consistent glucose control, supports weight loss (~5–7%).
4. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound)
- Mounjaro: Dual GLP-1/GIP agonist approved for type 2 diabetes.
- Zepbound: Approved in 2023 for obesity treatment; shows unparalleled weight loss results.
- Highlights: Average weight loss up to 22.5%, HbA1c reduction >2%, dual mechanism offers greater efficacy than traditional GLP-1s.
Comparison Table
| Brand Name | Active Ingredient | Indication | Dosing Frequency | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ozempic | Semaglutide | Type 2 Diabetes | Weekly | Glucose control, CV risk reduction |
| Wegovy | Semaglutide | Weight Management | Weekly | Substantial weight loss |
| Rybelsus | Semaglutide | Type 2 Diabetes | Daily (oral) | First oral GLP-1 |
| Saxenda | Liraglutide | Weight Management | Daily | Weight loss with CV benefits |
| Victoza | Liraglutide | Type 2 Diabetes | Daily | Long-standing safety |
| Trulicity | Dulaglutide | Type 2 Diabetes | Weekly | Simple auto-injector |
| Zepbound | Tirzepatide | Weight Management | Weekly | Highest weight loss efficacy |
| Mounjaro | Tirzepatide | Type 2 Diabetes | Weekly | Dual GLP-1/GIP action |
| Medication | Active Ingredient | Brand Name(s) | Dosing Frequency | FDA Approved For | Average Weight Loss | Notable Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide | Semaglutide | Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus | Weekly (Ozempic, Wegovy), Daily oral (Rybelsus) | Type 2 Diabetes, Obesity | 15% (Wegovy), 5–8% (Ozempic) | Nausea, vomiting, constipation, gallbladder issues |
| Liraglutide | Liraglutide | Victoza, Saxenda | Daily injection | Type 2 Diabetes, Obesity (Saxenda) | 5–8% | Nausea, headache, increased heart rate |
| Dulaglutide | Dulaglutide | Trulicity | Weekly injection | Type 2 Diabetes | 2–6% | GI discomfort, injection site reactions |
| Tirzepatide | Tirzepatide | Mounjaro, Zepbound | Weekly injection | Type 2 Diabetes, Obesity | 20–22.5% | Nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, hair loss |
| Lixisenatide | Lixisenatide | Adlyxin | Daily injection | Type 2 Diabetes | ~3% | Nausea, vomiting, injection site pain |
How to Use These Charts
- Compare medications based on your treatment goals (weight loss vs. glucose control)
- Discuss options with your healthcare provider to match personal preferences (e.g., dosing frequency, administration)
- Consider access and insurance coverage when evaluating options
Summary
The most popular GLP-1 medications today—especially semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro)—offer strong clinical outcomes in both diabetes and weight management. Their widespread use and growing media attention underscore their impact on metabolic health care in 2024 and beyond.
References
- American Diabetes Association. “Pharmacologic Approaches to Glycemic Treatment.” Diabetes Care. 2024.
- FDA Prescribing Information for Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda, and Zepbound. Updated 2023–2024.
- Jastreboff AM, et al. “Tirzepatide for Obesity.” NEJM. 2022.
- Davies MJ, et al. “Semaglutide for Weight Management.” The Lancet. 2021.