Semaglutide vs Ozempic vs Wegovy: What’s the Difference?

Breaking Down the Differences Between Semaglutide, Ozempic, and Wegovy

If you’ve been researching medical weight loss or diabetes management, you’ve likely come across three names over and over again: Semaglutide, Ozempic, and Wegovy. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they actually represent different forms of the same active ingredient—and understanding their distinctions is key to choosing the right option for your weight loss or health journey.

At Alternate Health Club, we specialize in GLP-1-based treatments and often get asked: “Which one should I use—Semaglutide, Ozempic, or Wegovy?” This article clears up the confusion so you can make an informed, confident decision.

What Is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is the active pharmaceutical ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. It’s a GLP-1 receptor agonist, meaning it mimics a hormone in your body that regulates blood sugar, slows digestion, and reduces appetite.

Originally created to treat Type 2 diabetes, Semaglutide has become one of the most effective options for medical weight loss and PCOS-related metabolic issues.

Explore our full guide to compounded Semaglutide

Ozempic: Designed for Diabetes

Ozempic is the brand name for Semaglutide when it’s prescribed specifically to manage Type 2 diabetes. It’s FDA-approved for that purpose, and it’s delivered via once-weekly injection pens.

Key Features:

• FDA-approved for Type 2 diabetes (not weight loss)
• Comes in doses from 0.25 mg to 2.0 mg
• Typically used by patients with elevated A1C

Even though it’s not approved for weight loss, many patients experience weight reduction as a side benefit due to appetite control.

Wegovy: FDA-Approved for Weight Loss

Wegovy is the weight-loss version of Semaglutide, FDA-approved for people who are overweight or obese—even if they don’t have diabetes.

Key Features:

• Higher dosing range (starting at 0.25 mg, maxing out at 2.4 mg)
• FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management
• Used alongside a calorie-controlled diet and increased physical activity

Wegovy is identical in formulation to Ozempic, but the dosing and approval focus are different.

Learn how Wegovy fits into our Ultimate GLP-1 Program Guide

Compounded Semaglutide: The AHC Advantage

At Alternate Health Club, we offer compounded Semaglutide from licensed pharmacies. These custom formulations are:

• More affordable
• Dose-flexible
• Created for patients seeking safe, non-branded options

Why Compounded?

• Available even when commercial brands are on shortage
• Tailored to your weight, symptoms, and treatment plan
• Monitored by medical professionals at AHC

Read more: What to Expect from Long-Term Use of Semaglutide

Key Differences: Ozempic vs Wegovy vs Compounded Semaglutide

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose Ozempic if:

• You have Type 2 diabetes and want to improve your blood sugar

Choose Wegovy if:

• You’re focused exclusively on weight loss

Choose Compounded Semaglutide if:

• You want a personalized dose and lower cost
• You’re working with AHC for PCOS, emotional eating, or weight plateaus

Learn how we manage emotional eating and cravings through GLP-1 pairing.

FAQs We Hear at AHC

Q: Is compounded Semaglutide safe?
A: Yes, when obtained from a licensed compounding pharmacy and overseen by medical providers, like at AHC.

Q: Can I switch from Ozempic to compounded Semaglutide?
A: Yes, many clients do this—especially if they experience supply issues or need more flexible dosing.

Q: Which one works better for PCOS?
A: All forms can help, but Semaglutide for PCOS is best delivered via a customized plan.

Final Thoughts: Semaglutide Is the Star—The Delivery Just Differs

Whether it’s Ozempic, Wegovy, or compounded Semaglutide, you’re working with the same core molecule. The key difference lies in how it’s prescribed, how much you get, and your treatment goals.

If you’re just starting out or unsure where you fit, Alternate Health Club will guide you with:

• Custom dosing plans
• GLP-1 education
• Ongoing support and side effect tracking

Explore our Semaglutide program here