Oral vs Injectable Semaglutide: Use Cases, Price and Effectiveness
Is oral or injectable semaglutide better?
One of the most commonly asked GLP-1 questions is whether to use oral or injectable semaglutide. While there is no single answer that fits everyone, in this blog we’ll go over what semaglutide is, and compare oral versus injectable semaglutide in terms of effectiveness, side effects, and cost.
What is semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a medication in the category of glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist (GLP-1). It is approved by the FDA under several brand names in both oral and injectable formulations to treat diabetes and in formulations also approved to promote weight loss in individuals with overweight and obesity. GLP-1 medications like semaglutide work by lowering blood sugar, slowing stomach emptying, and reducing appetite.
Injectable semaglutide is generally injected into the upper arm, thigh, or stomach. Oral semaglutide is a bit more specific: it is to be taken at least 30 minutes before any food or drink, swallowed with only a small sip of water and cannot be split, crushed or chewed.
Effectiveness of oral vs. injectable semaglutide
Though not many studies have been done to date comparing oral to injectable semaglutide in terms of effectiveness in weight loss, several studies have compared the two in terms of blood sugar control. In one study, there was no significant difference found between oral and injected semaglutide in terms of amount of weight lost. However, the oral formulations required a higher dosage to get the same effect.
This suggests that when dosed so that the amount absorbed is equal between oral and injectable formulations, they seem to lead to the same effectiveness for both blood sugar and weight loss.
Side effects of oral vs. injectable semaglutide
Both oral and injected semaglutide can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and risk of kidney and pancreatic issues. One study found that the oral formulation caused more burping/belching, versus the injectable form. Injectable semaglutide can cause injection site issues like redness, itching, pain, or rash.
Price of oral vs. injectable semaglutide
The price of semaglutide really depends on whether you are talking about brand name or compounded formulations. In general, compounded formulations will cost you about the same amount per month for both the oral and injectable types. In terms of brand name medications, the costs can vary greatly by brand and whether your insurance will cover any of it or not. Brand name semaglutide such as Ozempic, Wegovy, or Rybelsus can cost upwards of $900-2000/month. Compounded semaglutide from a reputable company will start around $250-350/month for either the oral or injectable formulations.
Access to oral vs. injectable semaglutide
Due to the popularity of semaglutide and tirzepatide, they can be difficult to get, especially the brand name forms of the drug. Compounded formulations, however, can be easier to access since there are fewer shortages affecting supply. Both oral and injectable semaglutide in their compounded form are usually available in about the same amount of time.
Who might oral semaglutide be better for?
If you are someone who is averse to needles or have had issues with injecting medications like semaglutide in the past, then oral semaglutide might be a great option. Keep in mind that you have to carefully follow the instructions for taking the oral formulation to ensure that it will work optimally, this includes taking it at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything.
Who might injectable semaglutide be better for?
If you prefer to take something only once a week,, and you’re able to self-inject, then injectable semaglutide might be a good choice for you. For many people, the convenience of not having to fast or worry about remembering a pill every day makes injections much easier to manage.
Personalized care for GLP-1 treatment
As we’ve discussed, GLP-1s come in both oral and injectable forms. Deciding which one is best for you is something you and your healthcare provider can discuss in detail together. Given that the research so far seems to suggest that both forms are effective, pricing is similar (oral being slightly less), and no significant difference in side effects, it is truly a decision based on your personal preferences and the recommendations from your doctor.
At Agile Telehealth, you won’t be billed for your subscription until after a prescription is written. We offer all of our new patients a no-cost initial consultation with one of our licensed providers to address any questions or concerns. Why do we do this? We want to ensure patient safety and build a customized treatment plan that fits your weight loss goals.
Interested in learning more about our weight loss programs? See if you qualify here!
