Phentermine is a controlled substance, indicating its potential for misuse or dependence. Specific federal and state laws limit the amount of this medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time.
Highlights
- People may choose to stop Wegovy because of medication shortages, side effects, or unmet expectations.
- There are alternative weight loss medications that have different mechanisms of action, potentially leading to a better response in some people.
- Some diabetes medications may be prescribed for weight loss off-label.
- If you decide to stop Wegovy, talk with your healthcare provider to get a detailed plan and to learn how to maintain the achieved result.
Weight management medications have become a new option for overcoming obesity and reaching a healthier body weight. However, the growing demand has led to some challenges, namely in regard to Wegovy shortages.
While all Wegovy products are currently available, it can be helpful to know what to do should another shortage occur, and what other anti-obesity medications may be a suitable alternative or even a better fit.
Get professional advice online
Why Might Someone Stop Taking Wegovy?
Wegovy (semaglutide) is an injectable medication; it belongs to the class of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which means it mimics the effects of the hormone GLP-1 by binding to its receptors. This allows Wegovy to keep blood sugar levels stable and delay stomach emptying, two features that can help lose weight.
However, despite the fact that Wegovy can decrease appetite, hence aiding weight reduction, some people may decide to stop taking it and explore alternative weight loss medications.
Shortages
One reason for this switch may be the
As a result, Wegovy shortages have been reported across the United States in the past. Wegovy’s manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, has since increased their production to meet the rising demand, and the medication is currently available, but another shortage is always possible.
Limited Results
Some people, however, may stop taking Wegovy because they are not pleased with the results. While clinical trials prove that individuals lose weight due to Wegovy treatment, not everyone does, nor to the extent they are hoping for. As a result, a healthcare professional may have you try another weight loss medication to see if it works better.
Side Effects
Wegovy can also come with some side effects. Some people report stomach pain, headaches, nausea, vomiting, high blood pressure, constipation, and diarrhea. If the side effects persist and are unpleasant, you may want to try another weight loss strategy.
Whether you want to stop taking Wegovy because of shortages or unpleasant side effects, it can be helpful to know what alternative weight loss medications are available. This way, you can discuss different treatment options with your healthcare provider and ensure that your weight loss journey continues. With online weight loss treatment, you can access expert care, discuss personalized options, and take control of your progress from the comfort of your home.
10 Wegovy Alternatives
Wegovy is among the few medicines specifically approved for weight loss by the FDA. Alternatives to it, however, can also include medications prescribed for weight loss off-label.
1. Zepbound
Zepbound (tirzepatide) has a dual mechanism of action. By influencing both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, it helps reduce appetite and improve satiety. Although Zepbound is specifically approved for weight loss and has shown proven results, it still has contraindications and side effects, so remember to discuss that with your healthcare provider.
According to Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Zepbound, the costs significantly vary depending on your insurance plan, ranging from $1,086.37 per fill to $25 for a one- or three-month supply if you are eligible for a savings program.
Read more here:Zepbound vs. Wegovy: Which Is Better for Weight Loss?
2. Saxenda
Saxenda (liraglutide) is a daily injectable medication. According to a study, it is
Note that
Read more here: Saxenda vs. Wegovy: Which Is Better for Weight Loss?
3. Qsymia
Qsymia is available in the form of capsules; it has two active ingredients, phentermine and topiramate, both helping control appetite. It has been shown to
- The full price is $246.19 to $284.83, depending on the chosen pharmacy.
- With coupons, you can pay $149.10.
- If you have commercial insurance, the price is $80 (you can learn more about available programs on the official website).
Note that the inclusion of phentermine makes Qsymia a Schedule IV controlled substance because, although low, it has a potential for misuse.
4. Contrave
Contrave contains two active ingredients: naltrexone and bupropion. Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist, while bupropion is an antidepressant; combined, these ingredients help to reduce hunger and cravings. In a
5. Orlistat
Orlistat is an FDA-approved medication for weight loss. It blocks the absorption of fat in the gut and is available in a capsule form rather than an injection. In addition, Orlistat is not only available as a prescription medication: its lower dose is FDA-approved and available over-the-counter by the name Alli.
The retail price of a 60-capsule supply of Xenical ranges from $498.02 to $522.60, depending on the pharmacy. With a coupon, the cost can be from $191.14 to $482.76.
6. Phentermine
Phentermine is available under the brand names Adipex-P and Lomaira. It is typically used for short-term weight management. Note that it is a controlled substance that also has certain side effects, like any other weight loss medication, so remember to disclose the necessary details of your health history to your clinician to learn if phentermine is a suitable option for you.
Most insurance plans do not cover phentermine, but its cost is more accessible compared to some other weight loss medications. A 30-tablet supply of generic phentermine can cost from $30.77 to $41.57, depending on the pharmacy, or lower if you use a coupon.
Read more here: Wegovy vs. Phentermine for Weight Loss: Which Is Better?
7. Ozempic
Off-label use for weight loss
Ozempic has the same active ingredient as Wegovy — semaglutide. However, unlike Wegovy, it is used for weight loss off-label. Ozempic is usually prescribed at lower doses and can cause fewer side effects, but at the same time, its weight loss effects in some individuals may be less pronounced. Your healthcare provider can help you choose the most suitable option based on your individual needs.
One pre-filled pen of 2 mg Ozempic can cost from $964.99 to $1005. However, those with commercial or private insurance can use savings cards to pay less.
8. Mounjaro
Off-label use for weight loss
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is used as a once-weekly injection. It activates GIP and GLP-1 receptors, helping to lower blood sugar levels and reduce appetite. Like all other weight loss medications, it should be supplemented with a healthy diet and physical activity to increase the chances of achieving and maintaining weight loss results.
One carton of four 2.5 mg pens of Mounjaro may vary from $1159 to $1414, depending on the pharmacy. Coupons and savings programs are available.
9. Trulicity
Off-label use for weight loss
Trulicity (dulaglutide) is another GLP-1 receptor agonist. It stimulates the natural process of insulin production in the body and lowers blood glucose levels. It is available in the form of injections typically used once weekly. Dulaglutide is believed to deliver
The list price for a monthly supply of Trulicity is $987.19, however, it can be lower due to particular insurance plans.
10. Victoza
Off-label use for weight loss
Victoza (liraglutide) works by activating insulin production in the body, decreasing the release of glucagon by the liver, and delaying stomach emptying. Although Victoza is an off-label weight loss medication, the above-mentioned effects can support weight reduction.
The costs of Victoza range from $543.51 to $815.27, depending on the package and necessary dosage; however, there are insurance coverage options.
Note that booking an appointment doesn’t guarantee obtaining a prescription. The decision is at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Medication prices are provided for informational purposes only; prices may change over time and may vary based on factors such as location, pharmacy, dosage, insurance coverage, and other variables.
Stopping Wegovy Safely
Regardless of the reason behind your decision to stop taking Wegovy, it’s important to have a solid weight loss plan in place to maintain your weight loss progress. Although it is possible to stop taking this medication cold turkey, some people report feeling an increased hunger when they do so.
Ask your healthcare provider to create a schedule to follow. Usually, it includes the steps needed to slowly taper off the medication, following a pattern that’s similar to the gradual build-up of Wegovy when first starting the medication, but in reverse. Always adhere to the guidelines of your clinician to reduce the possibility of adverse reactions when tapering off medication.
Conclusion
It’s important that, even when you stop taking weight loss medication, you don’t stop your other lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and others. Keeping these habits up is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and other achieved results. Furthermore, monitor your appetite and weight after stopping Wegovy and talk to your healthcare provider if you notice weight regain — it’s easier for them to intervene when the changes are just starting to happen.
If you are thinking about stopping Wegovy, it’s always best to walk through the process with a medical professional to minimize side effects and aid your long-term weight management. Book an appointment at MEDvidi to get personalized recommendations and an online prescription if deemed appropriate.
FAQ
Is there an over-the-counter Wegovy alternative?
Are Ozempic and Wegovy the same medication?
Is Wegovy available in pill form?
Wegovy is only available as an injection, but its manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, is currently testing a pill version of amycretin that targets GLP-1 as well. While the pull is not available yet for public use, the trials are ongoing.
Is there a generic for Wegovy?
What is a natural substitute for semaglutide?
One natural substitute for semaglutide is berberine, which can
Another potential natural alternative to semaglutide is aloe vera, which has been
Always check with your clinician before starting a supplement, though, to make sure it is safe for you to take.
