Which Are the Top 4 Alternatives to Wegovy for Weight Loss?

Wegovy has become popular recently, resulting in shortages across the country. The medicine is very productive in weight loss – Researchers found that taking it led to up to 37.5 pounds (17 kilograms) of weight loss for some study participants in the Journal of Investigative Medicine in 2022 – but it can cause people to gain weight after stopping it. There is currently a shortage of drugs containing semaglutide, such as Wegovy. This may lead people to seek an alternative.

Those who can’t get Wegovy pens or want to try a different drug have alternatives. This article examines why people discontinue the drug and four alternative options for effective weight loss.

Why People Might Discontinue Wegovy?

Several factors influence the decision to stop taking Wegovy, a prescription medication for weight management. Taking into account these reasons can provide insight into the complicated nature of weight loss medications and the challenges some people face:

Wegovy Shortage: The current shortage of Wegovy injection, resulting from high demand, is a significant factor. The medication shortage has disrupted patient treatment plans and forced some to seek alternatives.

Side Effects: Although Wegovy has proven effective for many, it can also cause uncomfortable side effects. It can cause nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headaches, fatigue, and gastrointestinal problems. The adverse effects of these medications can outweigh the benefits for some users, leading them to discontinue their use.

Desired Results Achieved: After achieving their weight loss goals, some individuals may stop taking Wegovy. Healthcare providers often recommend transitioning from Wegovy to a maintenance plan in these cases. A weight loss plan may include lifestyle modifications and other strategies.

Best Alternatives to Wegovy

The FDA approves several weight loss drugs. The following are four medications that you should discuss with your healthcare provider.

1. Saxenda (liraglutide)

Wegovy works similar to Saxenda, a daily injectable medication that contains liraglutide. Saxenda is not prescribed to pregnant or breastfeeding women or those with a personal or family history of thyroid cancer or MEN2.

Pros:

It’s approved for weight loss.
The method is similar to that used by Wegovy.
There is a lower out-of-pocket cost than with Wegovy.

Cons:

Wegovy requires weekly injections, while it requires daily injections.
There is a potential danger of thyroid cancer, gallbladder problems, high blood pressure, low sugar levels, kidney problems, and suicidal thoughts.
The out-of-pocket cost may still be too high for some despite being less expensive than Wegovy injection.

2. Zepbound (tirzepatide)

Like Wegovy, Zepbound is also a GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 agonist, increasing fullness and supporting weight loss. A 2022 New England Journal of Medicine review showed that more than 2,500 adult patients with obesity or overweight and one weight-related condition found that those who took tirzepatide lost an average of 15% of their weight over 72 weeks. The use of Zepbound is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding or whose family has had medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN2.

Pros:

Weight loss is approved with this product.
Just one weekly dose is required, similar to Wegovy.
It is both a GIP and GLP-1 agonist, making it unique.
There is a lower out-of-pocket cost than with Wegovy.
If you have insurance, you can save $25 per month; if you don’t, you can save $550 per month.

Cons:

Some people may not be comfortable with injectable medications.
There is a chance of developing thyroid tumors or cancer, gallbladder problems, hypoglycemia, an increased heart rate, kidney problems, and digestive issues as a result.
The out-of-pocket cost may still be too high for some despite being less expensive than Wegovy.

3. Xenical (orlistat)

Xenical contains orlistat, a drug that blocks fat absorption in the gut. It cannot treat type 2 diabetes but is approved for weight loss. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and people with chronic malabsorption syndrome and cholestasis should not take this medication.

Pros:

The product is approved for weight loss.
Capsules are available rather than injectables, which may be more convenient for some people.
There is a lower out-of-pocket cost than with Wegovy.
It is available over the counter under the name Alli, which contains a lower dose and is FDA-approved.

Cons:

Gallstones may be increased by it.
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal problems like oily spotting, urgency in passing stool, and inability to control bowel movements.
It decreases the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and beta-carotene.
Even though it’s less expensive than Wegovy injection, some may still find it too expensive.

4. Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate)

It contains two active ingredients, topiramate and phentermine, which reduce appetites. The Lancet published a research review in 2021 that found that taking phentermine/topiramate reduces body weight, belly fat, blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Taking Qsymia is not recommended if you are pregnant, have glaucoma (an eye disease that can result in blindness), or are currently taking some prescription medications.

Pros:

It’s much cheaper than Wegovy.
It comes in tablet form and could be a good option for those who dislike needles.

Cons:

Among the side effects are numbness, tingling, lightheadedness, trouble sleeping, diarrhea, dry mouth, and changes in food taste.
In addition to phentermine, Qsymia contains other controlled substances. The potential for misuse is low, but it does exist.
Although it is cheaper than Wegovy, some people may still be unable to afford it.

How to Discontinue Wegovy Safely?

People may stop taking Wegovy because they have met their health goals, dislike the side effects, or cannot obtain the drug due to shortages. There is no need to come off Wegovy slowly. It is important to notify a doctor before discontinuing Wegovy so they can support you. When people stop taking Wegovy, they may regain some weight, lose their appetite and cravings, and experience changes in their blood sugar.

In a 2023 study published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, people who stopped taking semaglutide for a year gained almost 66% of their weight back from their weight loss. It may be possible to keep weight off by eating a healthy meal and exercising regularly, but people may still need to take the drug, which can be costly in the long run.

People need to seek support from a healthcare professional during these changes. In addition, if you are looking for an affordable place to buy Wegovy online, the best Canadian online pharmacy, Polar Bear Meds, is a reliable option.

Conclusion

If you’re facing challenges with Wegovy due to shortages or side effects, there are alternative options to discuss with your healthcare provider. Medications like Saxenda, Zepbound, Xenical, and Qsymia offer different weight loss approaches, each with pros and cons. It’s important to weigh these options carefully and consider factors like effectiveness, convenience, and potential side effects.

Additionally, if you decide to discontinue Wegovy, consult your doctor for guidance on safely transitioning off the medication. Overall, staying informed and working closely with your healthcare team can help you guide through medication shortages and find the best solution for your weight management journey.