Wegovy Alternative For Weight Loss - Safer And Cheaper Alternatives To Wegovy Semaglutide Injections Over The Counter

Wegovy is a prescription medication created for weight management. It contains Semaglutide - a diabetes drug that controls blood sugar levels and reduces caloric intake.

Social media has highlighted several warnings and caveats of using this injectable medication - side effects, high cost and availability issues being at the forefront. 

This article focuses on where to get Wegovy alternatives over the counter , both natural and cheaper substitutes and other weight loss drugs like Semaglutide. 

Over the Counter Alternatives to Wegovy

1.    PhenQ - best over counter Wegovy alternative
2.    Zotrim - herbal appetite suppressant

Both PhenQ and Zotrim are available otc without a prescription. They are considered to be the most effective over the counter Wegovy alternatives for losing weight by industry critics.

PhenQ - Fat Burner and Appetite Suppressant

CLICK to view PhenQ price and availability

PhenQ is an all-natural supplement to help men and women lose weight instead of using Wegovy. Compared to prescription medication, PhenQ has a more natural approach when it comes to burning fat, helping you eat fewer calories and losing weight. Using a weight loss alternative like PhenQ leads to more permanent weight reduction. It is also a fraction of the cost of the prescription weight loss drug.

Wegovy suppresses appetite by mimicking the activity of GLP-1 - a hormone in the brain that regulates appetite and hunger craving. When you stop taking Wegovy your appetite returns and so do all the lbs that you have lost. 

PhenQ contains an ingredient called alpha-lacy reset which has two roles in helping you lose weight. Alpha-lacy reset increases the body’s ability to burn excess body fat at a faster rate, but it also helps limit the production of new fat cells from the carbohydrates that eat.

PhenQ contains cayenne pepper extract which further affects fat burning – something that Wegovy does not offer. These differences make PhenQ an effective choice for those looking for a more natural weight management solution that is cheaper, safer and permanent.

Zotrim - Reduce Food Cravings

CLICK to view Zotrim price and availability

Zotrim is a unique herbal appetite suppressant and hunger reducer that harnesses the power of natural ingredients to help promote healthy weight management. 
Trying to lose weight can be a constant battle for many individuals. With so many weight loss products and programs on the market, it can be challenging to know what actually works. 

However, Zotrim has shown that it can be an effective solution to safely and quickly lose weight. This natural supplement not only helps to suppress appetite but also boosts energy levels, helping you avoid overeating and leading to quick results. 

Plus, when compared to other weight loss options, Zotrim is relatively cheap, making it an affordable option for many individuals looking to shed some pounds. Give Zotrim a try and see how it can help you reach your weight loss goals in a safe, quick, and affordable way.

Alternatives to Wegovy for Weight Loss

There are two main alternate routes you can take if you cannot obtain Wegovy or simply don't want to use it due to possible side effects and cost.

●    Other Medications and Weight Loss Drugs - we have elaborated further down in the article about some similar weight loss injections to Wegovy (Ozempic and Mounjaro). Although these are technically a substitute to Wegovy the same problems with cost, side effects and availability are still present.

●    Natural Alternatives to Semaglutide - using a combination fat burner and appetite suppression supplement like PhenQ is both cheaper and safer. There is also the added bonus that you will not suffer from weight gain once you stop taking PhenQ.

There are new weight loss drugs that could be introduced in 2023 such as Retatrutide and GEP44 - but as of mid 2023 there is no form release date.

Wegovy Injections in the Media

Elon Musk is among a list of celebrities that have been associated with using the injection in 2023. A common question is "what is the weight loss injection that Elon Musk tweeted about?" The answer is Wegovy.

It has been labeled the Hollywood weight loss craze and the miracle weight loss drug.

Ozempic is often confused with Wegovy. Although similar there are differences. Here is an overview of Ozempic and some over the counter alternatives for weight loss.

How Do Wegovy Weight Loss Injections Work?

Weight loss injections have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their effectiveness. The medication contains Semaglutide, a synthetic glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone agonist, which works to suppress appetite and improve metabolism. 

Studies show that the use of Semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss over 12 weeks when coupled with a healthy diet and exercise plan. There are several Wegovy weight loss reviews from legitimate sources that give a balanced overview with positives and negatives.

This is because GLP-1 agonists slow down how quickly food is digested, subsequently making you feel full faster and diminishing your desire to further eat. What's more, they promote the release of insulin from the pancreas, regulating blood glucose levels and creating an environment in which it is easier for your body to burn extra body fat. 

With its multi-faceted approach to support weight loss management, Wegovy injections could be a viable option for those who wish to safely lose some extra pounds.

Who Can Use Semaglutide Prescription Medication?

Wegovy prescription medication is specially formulated to help adults with a very high BMI (body mass index). This injectable medication has been shown to be especially effective in supporting chronic weight management, while also helping to reduce any other risks of obesity. 

Wegovy is designed for both men and women; it specifically reacts with fatty tissues while also providing essential nutritional support. If you want to lose weight you can benefit immensely from using this new prescription medication.

It is not suitable for men and women that seek only to lose a few pounds for cosmetic reasons.

How Much Weight Can I Lose With Wegovy Injections?

Wegovy (semaglutide) can lead to significant weight loss for some when combined with diet and lifestyle  changes. 

Studies show average weight loss of at least 15% of your initial body weight. For an individual weighing 200 lbs, this equals losing 30 lbs in about 68 weeks.

However, weight loss will vary between people based on many factors. 

Wegovy makes you feel full faster and longer. It changes how your body regulates appetite and food preferences.  By slowing digestion and reducing appetite, Wegovy enables eating less and cutting out hundreds of calories per day. Over time, these small changes compound to yield clinically meaningful results. 

Where to Buy Wegovy OTC

A Wegovy injection is not available to buy over the counter. It is only available from Novo Nordisk - the manufacturer. It can be obtained from pharmacies with a valid script or prescription.

The following pharmacies and health stores may stock. Please note: As of Summer 2023 there is a worldwide shortage of the prescription drugs Wegovy, Ozempic and Semaglutide.

Cheapest price on Wegovy from Pharmacies in the United States
●    WALMART - $1618.82
●    CVS PHARMACY - $1459.94
●    WALGREEN - $1469.97
●    KROGER PHARMACY - 
●    TOMBALL HEALTH MART PHARMACY - 
●    MEDICAP - $1345.97

You will need a valid prescription from a healthcare provider to purchase Wegovy at the above pharmacies. You cannot obtain Wegovy from GNC or other health stores. 

Why Is Wegovy Prescription Only?

Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) is only available by prescription for several reasons:

1. It contains a high dose of the injectable diabetes drug Ozempic (semaglutide). Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists which mimic the effects of a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). At higher doses, semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss but also may cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in some people.

2. It requires careful medical monitoring. Especially when first starting Wegovy, patients need to be monitored for potential side effects and dosage adjustments. Blood sugar levels and nutritional wellbeing also need to be checked regularly due to alterations in appetite and eating behaviors.

3. It may not suit all individuals. Wegovy may not be recommended or appropriate for people with certain health conditions like gastroparesis or who are at risk of pancreatitis. It also does not have data for use in children, teens or pregnant women at this time.

4. Misuse could be dangerous. Although Wegovy specifically is aimed at weight loss, semaglutide and other GLP-1 drugs are potent blood sugar-lowering medications. Incorrect use or high doses could potentially lead to hypoglycemia which requires medical assistance to correct and can be life-threatening if left untreated.

5. It requires lifestyle changes for success. While Wegovy promotes weight loss through decreased appetite and calorie intake, sustainable results still depend on long term diet and lifestyle changes which need to be implemented under guidance. Medication alone does not alter behaviors or social determinants of health which contribute to weight gain. Ongoing support and counseling are needed.

In summary, Wegovy contains a high dose of a prescription diabetes medication and may lead to a loss of as much as 15-20% of body weight for some individuals. However, due to its potency, risk of side effects and need for close medical monitoring, other options and substitutes are recommended.

Other Weight Loss Drugs As Alternatives to Wegovy Injections

There are several weight loss medications and diabetes drugs that are substitutes for Wegovy, these include:

Here are other prescription weight loss drugs similar to Wegovy (semaglutide):

• Mounjaro (tirzepatide): A new dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist for diabetes that can promote weight loss. It works by stimulating insulin and decreasing appetite. Studies show up to 22.5% weight loss.

• Ozempic (semaglutide): Injectable GLP-1 agonist for diabetes that can lead to 12% weight loss at high doses. It works by slowing digestion, increasing satiety and possibly changing food preferences.

• Rybelsus (oral semaglutide): The oral pill form of semaglutide that can produce 12% weight loss. It works similarly by activating GLP-1 receptors to decrease appetite, control blood sugar and potentially boost metabolism.

• Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion): A combination of two medications, an opioid antagonist and antidepressant, that works in the brain to decrease appetite and alter eating behaviors. It can lead to as much as 10% weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes.

• Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate): A drug class appetite suppressant and anticonvulsant combination that can promote 9% weight loss. Phentermine works in the brain to decrease hunger while topiramate alters taste and causes feelings of satiety. 

Orlistat (Xenical, Alli): A lipase inhibitor that works by blocking the absorption of some fats from the diet. It comes as a capsule and can produce modest weight loss of about 5% when combined with a reduced calorie and low fat diet. Common side effects include loose stools, flatulence, and abdominal cramping.

• Lorcaserin (Belviq, Belviq XR): A serotonin 2C receptor agonist taken as a tablet that works by activating brain receptors involved in hunger and satiety. Studies found 8% of body weight loss on average when combined with lifestyle intervention. Side effects may include headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and diarrhea.

• Bupropion-zonisamide (Empatic): A combination of an antidepressant and anticonvulsant in extended-release capsules. It is proposed to work by altering dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain which affect mood, rewards, and food cravings. A study showed 9.7% weight loss in one year. Side effects include nausea, dizziness, fatigue and dry mouth. Still awaiting FDA approval. 

• Liraglutide (Saxenda): A higher-dose formulation of Victoza (injectable) for weight loss. Saxenda comes as a subcutaneous injection to activate satiety centers in the brain. It can produce 8-10% weight loss when combined with diet and exercise. The most common side effects are nausea, diarrhea, low blood sugar, and vomiting. 

These oral and subcutaneous medications provide alternatives to Wegovy for weight loss. However, results still require major lifestyle changes and may vary between people based on individual factors. 

Ozempic and Wegovy - Differences

The two diabetes medications are remarkably similar and often confused. To summarize it concicely, both drugs contain the same active ingredient Semaglutide. 
Ozempic and Wegovy are both brand names of injectable medicine containing the drug semaglutide. While not interchangeable, they have different FDA approved uses: Ozempic is approved for treatment of Type 2 diabetes, while the higher-dose Wegovy is FDA approved for weight management.

As semaglutide has been found to decrease blood glucose levels and promote satiety, these medications can provide relief and improved health metrics to individuals suffering from either condition.

How Much Does Wegovy Cost?

The average cost of Wegovy is $1000 (latest June 2023). Prices will vary depending on your circumstances, insurance coverage and where you buy from or obtain from. Wegovy has a list price of $1,349.02 per package. 

Is Wegovy Available on Insurance Coverage?

Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg), a higher dose of Ozempic for weight loss, may be covered by some insurance plans, including:

• Medicare Part D: Wegovy is approved for coverage under Medicare Part D prescription drug plans. However, plans can determine their own coverage details, restrictions, and out-of-pocket costs for members.

• Private Insurers: Many major insurance companies like UnitedHealthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna and Aetna have approved Wegovy for coverage, especially for patients with a BMI over 30. However, plans will vary in the specifics of their coverage. Some may require a prior authorization from your doctor first or mandate certain lifestyle changes as well.

• Medicaid: State Medicaid programs establish their own coverage for prescription drugs based on medical necessity and available funding. Some states currently provide coverage for weight loss medications like Wegovy on a case-by-case basis or limited to those with obesity-related health risks. Coverage and eligibility rules frequently change so you need to check with your specific state's current Medicaid coverage criteria. 

• Commercial payers: Self-insured commercial plans that cover weight loss drugs and devices may include Wegovy based on medical policies, formularies, and contracts with Novo Nordisk, the maker of Wegovy. However, many smaller companies do not provide coverage for weight loss medications or other obesity treatments at this time due to costs.

Wegovy Alternatives Summary and Conclusion

A Wegovy weight loss injection is very effective for men and women that have a high body mass index and cannot lose weight through diet and exercise. Wegovy is not available over the counter without a doctor's prescription. There are pharmacies that sell the weight loss medication including Walmart, Walgreen and CVS. 

There are concerns about the risk factors using injectable drugs that are meant to treat diabetes for weight loss. The first and most important is the side effects. Seemingly every month in 2023 there is a new study that connects Semaglutide to adverse reactions - thyroid cancer risk is one.

The serious side effects of Wegovy and cost is also an area of concern. The latest price for May, June and July 2023 is around $1000 for a month's supply of the new weight loss drug.

For these reasons using alternatives to Wegogy such as PhenQ are cheaper, less invasive, less likely to cause future weight gain and above all - safer.

Disclaimer : The above is a sponsored post, the views expressed are those of the sponsor/author and do not represent the stand and views of Outlook Editorial.