GLP-1 medications have changed the conversation about weight loss. But a familiar brand name, a promising headline, and the right prescription for you are three different things. This guide explains the main options and the questions to bring to a healthcare visit.
myleafrx medication guide · Information checked September 22, 2026 · U.S. information
What are GLP-1 medications?
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1. Medicines that act on this hormone pathway can help regulate appetite and blood sugar. Tirzepatide acts on both GLP-1 and GIP pathways. Weight-management medicines are used alongside nutrition, physical activity, and ongoing care. They are not suitable for everyone. Read NIDDK’s overview of prescription weight-management medicines.
Wegovy, Zepbound, Ozempic: why the name matters
Some medicines share an active ingredient but have different approved uses, strengths, or formulations. A price for one product does not establish the price—or suitability—of another.
- Wegovy (semaglutide): a GLP-1 medicine with FDA-approved weight-management uses. It now includes weekly injections and a daily tablet. The tablet’s weight-management indication is for adults; eligibility and other indications differ by formulation. FDA prescribing information.
- Zepbound (tirzepatide): a weekly GIP/GLP-1 injection approved for weight management in eligible adults. Mounjaro contains the same active ingredient and has a type 2 diabetes indication. These brand names should not be substituted in a price search or prescription without checking with the prescriber. FDA explanation of Zepbound and Mounjaro.
- Foundayo (orforglipron): a daily oral GLP-1 medicine approved in April 2026 for weight management in eligible adults. It adds another oral option to discuss with a clinician. FDA approval announcement.
- Ozempic (semaglutide): a prescription medicine for adults with type 2 diabetes, with additional approved benefits for certain patients. It is not FDA-approved for weight loss or chronic weight management. Manufacturer’s explanation of approved uses.
This is an overview, not a complete list of treatments. For recent approvals and medicines still being studied, read our 2026 weight-loss drug update.
Who may be a candidate?
For many adult weight-management prescriptions, clinicians consider a body mass index (BMI) of at least 30, or at least 27 with a weight-related health condition. BMI is only one part of the assessment. Medical history, other medicines, treatment goals, and the specific product label also matter. Obesity can require long-term treatment; discuss follow-up and what happens if treatment stops. NIDDK explains eligibility and ongoing care.
Safety questions to discuss before starting
Common effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Serious risks vary by product and can include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, dehydration-related kidney injury, and low blood sugar when used with certain diabetes medicines. Wegovy, Zepbound, and Foundayo carry boxed thyroid-tumor warnings and should not be used with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN2. Review the full label with your clinician. Zepbound safety information; Foundayo safety information; Wegovy prescribing information.
Tell your prescriber about pregnancy plans, breastfeeding, digestive problems, other medicines, and any planned anesthesia or sedation. Do not combine GLP-1 medicines or switch products on your own. Your clinician should give you a treatment and side-effect plan.
Five questions to take to your appointment
- What health goal are we treating, and why does this medicine fit?
- How will we track benefits, side effects, and nutrition?
- What symptoms should prompt a call or urgent care?
- What follow-up will I need, and how long might treatment continue?
- What is the full ongoing cost, including visits and the prescribed formulation?
Compare the cost of the exact prescription
After your clinician selects a treatment, compare the same brand, form, strength, quantity, and days’ supply. A pharmacy coupon, an insurance benefit, and a manufacturer offer have different rules. Our GLP-1 cost guide explains what to check.
Search current prescription prices with myleafrx. If your exact product or quantity is not listed, call 1-833-941-1140 for help. A search result does not establish clinical eligibility, insurance coverage, pharmacy stock, or a guaranteed discount.
This educational article does not replace individualized medical advice. myleafrx is a prescription discount service, not insurance or a prescribing service. Sources are linked beside the information they support.