Key Takeaway
Looking for a GLP-1 medication comparison chart that puts every option side by side? You're in the right place. The number of GLP-1 medications has grown rapidly, and each one has different strengths. Efficacy, side effects, cost, dosing frequency, and route of administration all vary.
Looking for a GLP-1 medication comparison chart that puts every option side by side? You're in the right place. The number of GLP-1 medications has grown rapidly, and each one has different strengths. Efficacy, side effects, cost, dosing frequency, and route of administration all vary. This guide breaks down every major GLP-1 medication so you can have an informed conversation with your provider.
Key Takeaways: - Injectable GLP-1 Single Agonists - Dual and Multi-Agonist Options - Oral GLP-1 Options - Cost and Access Comparison - Learn how to choose the right glp-1 medication
Let's compare them all.
Injectable GLP-1 Single Agonists
These medications target the GLP-1 receptor only. They were the first generation of GLP-1 drugs and remain widely used today.
Semaglutide (injectable) is the most prescribed GLP-1 for weight management. Given as a weekly injection, clinical trials showed approximately 15% body weight loss at the 2.4 mg dose. It has strong cardiovascular safety data and is available as a personalized compounded medication through FormBlends. The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which typically improve over the first few weeks.
Liraglutide requires a daily injection at the 3.0 mg dose for weight management. Clinical trials showed about 8% body weight loss. While less effective than semaglutide for weight loss, it has a long safety track record and may suit people who prefer daily dosing control. It also showed a 13% reduction in major cardiovascular events in the LEADER trial (Marso et al., NEJM, 2016).
Dulaglutide is a weekly injection primarily used for type 2 diabetes. It produces moderate weight loss of about 3-5% and isn't specifically approved for weight management. It's often well-covered by insurance for diabetes.
"We now have cardiovascular outcomes data showing semaglutide reduces MACE events by 20% in people with obesity, independent of diabetes status. The SELECT trial[1] changed how we think about these medications.") Dr. A. Michael Lincoff, MD, Cleveland Clinic, lead author of SELECT
Exenatide comes in both a twice-daily and once-weekly version. Weight loss is modest (about 3-5%), and it's primarily used for blood sugar control. It has been on the market since 2005, giving it the longest track record of any GLP-1.
For an in-depth look at the most popular option, read our .
Dual and Multi-Agonist Options
These medications target multiple hormone receptors, which generally produces greater weight loss.
View data table
| Category | Mean Body Weight Loss (%) | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Tirzepatide | 22 | ~22% body weight at 72 wks |
| Semaglutide | 15 | ~15% body weight at 68 wks |
| Liraglutide | 8 | ~8% body weight at 56 wks |
| Retatrutide | 24 | ~24% in Phase 2 trial |
Free Download: GLP-1 Medication Comparison One-Pager Get every GLP-1 medication compared in one printable chart (efficacy, dosing, cost, and side effects at a glance. Get yours free) we'll email it to you instantly. [Email Input] [Download Button]
Tirzepatide targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. Given as a weekly injection, it showed about 22% body weight loss in the SURMOUNT trials. It's currently the most effective FDA-approved weight management medication. Side effects are similar to other GLP-1 drugs. It's also available through compounding pharmacies. See our for details.
Retatrutide (investigational) is a triple agonist targeting GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon. Phase 2 trials showed 24% body weight loss. It's still in Phase 3 trials and not yet available.
CagriSema (investigational) combines semaglutide with cagrilintide (an amylin analog). Phase 3 data showed 22-25% weight loss. It could be one of the next drugs to reach market.
Oral GLP-1 Options
For people who prefer pills over injections, oral options are growing.
Check your GLP-1 eligibility
Use our free BMI Calculator to see if you may qualify for provider-reviewed GLP-1 therapy.
Try the BMI Calculator →Oral semaglutide (Rybelsus) is currently available at doses up to 14 mg daily. At this dose, it produces about 5-7% weight loss. Higher doses (25-50 mg) in clinical trials showed about 15-17% weight loss and may receive approval. The tablet must be taken on an empty stomach with minimal water, followed by a 30-minute fast.
Orforglipron (investigational) is a small molecule oral GLP-1 from Eli Lilly. Phase 2 data showed about 14.7% weight loss. Unlike Rybelsus, it can be taken with food. Potential availability in late 2026 or 2027.
Cost and Access Comparison
Cost is often the deciding factor. Here is the market.
Brand-name injectable semaglutide and tirzepatide can cost $1,000 or more per month without insurance. Insurance coverage varies widely based on your plan and the indication (diabetes vs. Weight management).
Liraglutide and dulaglutide are similarly priced at brand-name levels, though some have better insurance coverage for diabetes.
Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide through platforms like FormBlends typically cost significantly less than brand-name options. These are personalized medications prepared by licensed US-based 503A pharmacies and prescribed by licensed providers.
For current pricing details, visit our or check our .
How to Choose the Right GLP-1 Medication
The best GLP-1 medication for you depends on several factors. Your primary goal (weight management vs. Blood sugar control vs. Both) matters. Your tolerance for injections, your budget, and your medical history all play a role.
If weight loss is your primary goal, tirzepatide or semaglutide are typically the strongest options available today. If cost matters (and it usually does), compounded versions through telehealth platforms offer compounded formulations of the active ingredient at lower prices.
If you have type 2 diabetes, several of these medications are approved for both conditions, which may improve insurance coverage.
Your provider is the best person to help you handle this decision. They can evaluate your health history, current medications, and goals to recommend the right fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which GLP-1 medication causes the most weight loss?
Among FDA-approved options, tirzepatide currently produces the most weight loss at about 22% of body weight in trials. Investigational drugs like retatrutide and CagriSema may surpass this, but they aren't yet available.
What is the cheapest GLP-1 medication?
Compounded semaglutide through telehealth platforms like FormBlends is typically the most affordable option. Brand-name medications cost $1,000+ monthly without insurance. Visit our for current FormBlends rates.
Are all GLP-1 medications injections?
No. Oral semaglutide (Rybelsus) is available as a daily pill. New oral options like orforglipron are in development. But injectable versions currently offer stronger weight loss results at available doses.
Can I switch between GLP-1 medications?
Yes, switching between GLP-1 medications is common and can be done safely under provider guidance. Your provider will adjust your dose and monitor your response during the transition.
Do all GLP-1 medications have the same side effects?
The side effects are generally similar across the class) nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation are most common. But the severity and duration can vary between medications. Read our for management strategies.
Let's Make This Happen
The research is clear. The options are available. The only question is whether it's right for you. A FormBlends provider can help you decide (no pressure, no commitment.
Medical References
- Lincoff AM, Brown-Frandsen K, Colhoun HM, et al. Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Obesity without Diabetes. N Engl J Med. 2023;389(24):2221-2232. [PubMed | ClinicalTrials.gov | DOI]
- Davies M, Færch L, Jeppesen OK, et al. Semaglutide 2.4 mg once a week in adults with overweight or obesity, and type 2 diabetes (STEP 2). Lancet. 2021;397(10278):971-984. [PubMed | ClinicalTrials.gov | DOI]
- Wadden TA, Bailey TS, Billings LK, et al. Effect of Subcutaneous Semaglutide vs Placebo as an Adjunct to Intensive Behavioral Therapy on Body Weight in Adults With Overweight or Obesity (STEP 3). JAMA. 2021;325(14):1403-1413. [PubMed | ClinicalTrials.gov | DOI]
- Garvey WT, Batterham RL, Bhatt DL, et al. Two-year effects of semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity (STEP 5). Nat Med. 2022;28(10):2083-2091. [PubMed | ClinicalTrials.gov | DOI]
- Garvey WT, Frias JP, Jastreboff AM, et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity in people with type 2 diabetes (SURMOUNT-2). Lancet. 2023;402(10402):613-626. [PubMed | ClinicalTrials.gov | DOI]
- Wadden TA, Chao AM, Engel S, et al. Tirzepatide with intensive lifestyle intervention in adults with overweight or obesity (SURMOUNT-3). Nat Med. 2024. [PubMed | ClinicalTrials.gov | DOI]
- Aronne LJ, Sattar N, Horn DB, et al. Continued Treatment With Tirzepatide for Maintenance of Weight Reduction in Adults With Obesity (SURMOUNT-4). JAMA. 2024;331(1):38-48. [PubMed | ClinicalTrials.gov | DOI]
Sources &. References
- Pi-Sunyer X, Astrup A, Fujioka K, et al. A Randomized, Controlled Trial of 3.0 mg of Liraglutide in Weight Management. N Engl J Med. 2015;373(1):11-22. Doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1411892
- Marso SP, Daniels GH, Tanaka K, et al. Liraglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes. N Engl J Med. 2016;375(4):311-322. Doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1603827
- Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S, et al. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2021;384(11):989-1002. Doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
- Davies M, Færch L, Jeppesen OK, et al. Semaglutide 2.4 mg once a week in adults with overweight or obesity, and type 2 diabetes (STEP 2 (Davies et al., Lancet, 2021)). Lancet. 2021;397(10278):971-984. Doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(21)00213-0
- Wadden TA, Bailey TS, Billings LK, et al. Effect of Subcutaneous Semaglutide vs Placebo as an Adjunct to Intensive Behavioral Therapy on Body Weight in Adults With Overweight or Obesity (STEP 3 (Wadden et al., JAMA, 2021)). JAMA. 2021;325(14):1403-1413. Doi:10.1001/jama.2021.1831
- Garvey WT, Batterham RL, Bhatt DL, et al. Two-Year Effects of Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity (STEP 5 (Garvey et al., Nat Med, 2022)). Nat Med. 2022;28:2083-2091. Doi:10.1038/s41591-022-02026-4
- Lincoff AM, Brown-Frandsen K, Colhoun HM, et al. Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Obesity without Diabetes. N Engl J Med. 2023;389(24):2221-2232. Doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2307563
- Jastreboff AM, Aronne LJ, Ahmad NN, et al. Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2022;387(3):205-216. Doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2206038
- Garvey WT, Frias JP, Jastreboff AM, et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity in people with type 2 diabetes (SURMOUNT-2[5] (Garvey et al., Lancet, 2023)). Lancet. 2023;402(10402):613-626. Doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(23)01200-X
- Wadden TA, Chao AM, Engel S, et al. Tirzepatide after intensive lifestyle intervention in adults with overweight or obesity (SURMOUNT-3[6] (Wadden et al., Nat Med, 2023)). Nat Med. 2023. Doi:10.1038/s41591-023-02597-w
- Aronne LJ, Sattar N, Horn DB, et al. Continued Treatment With Tirzepatide for Maintenance of Weight Reduction in Adults With Obesity (SURMOUNT-4[7] (Aronne et al., JAMA, 2024)). JAMA. 2024;331(1):38-48. Doi:10.1001/jama.2023.24945
- Malhotra A, Grunstein RR, Fietze I, et al. Tirzepatide for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2024;391:1193-1205. Doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2404881
This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It isn't a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a licensed healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition or treatment plan.
Last updated: 2026-03-24