Ozempic® has become widely known in Canada for its role in managing type 2 diabetes and supporting weight loss. While it can be highly effective for some people, it isn’t the right fit for everyone. Cost, side effects, availability, needle aversion, or medical considerations can all lead people to look for other options.
The good news is that Ozempic® is not the only effective weight loss treatment available. Several alternatives—both medication-based and lifestyle-focused—can support blood sugar control and weight management, depending on your goals and health needs.
This guide explores three effective alternatives to Ozempic® available in Canada, how they work, how they compare, and what to consider when deciding which option may be right for you.
Note: All prescription medications discussed should be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.
What Is Ozempic® and Why Do People Look for Alternatives?
Ozempic® (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable medication classified as a GLP-1 receptor agonist.
It works by mimicking the glucagon-like peptide-1 hormone, which helps regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and reduce appetite.
Some people seek alternatives due to:
- Gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea or vomiting.
- Discomfort with injections.
- Cost concerns or supply shortages.
- Medical contraindications.
- Preference for oral or different dosing options.
Choosing an alternative doesn’t mean giving up on results—it means finding an approach that better fits your body, lifestyle, and preferences.
Alternatives to Ozempic®
Alternative 1: Other GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Available in Canada
Ozempic® is one medication in a broader class called GLP-1 receptor agonists
Several others are approved in Canada and offer similar benefits with some differences.
- Trulicity® (dulaglutide)
- Mounjaro® (tirzepatide)
- Victoza® (liraglutide)
- Rybelsus® (oral semaglutide)
How They Compare to Ozempic®
Like Ozempic®, these medications help improve blood sugar control and support weight loss by increasing fullness and reducing appetite. Differences include dosing schedules, administration method, and side-effect profiles.
Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) acts on both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, which may lead to greater improvements in blood glucose and weight for some individuals. It’s given as a once-weekly injection and has similar gastrointestinal side effects during dose increases.
Trulicity® is also once weekly and may appeal to people who prefer a simpler injection device.
Victoza® is taken daily and may be easier to tolerate at lower doses.
Rybelsus® is the only oral GLP-1 option currently available in Canada, making it a strong alternative for those who wish to avoid injections.
Alternative 2: Non-GLP-1 Medications
Metformin
Metformin is often the first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes and is sometimes used off-label for weight support. It improves insulin sensitivity and reduces glucose production in the liver.
SGLT2 Inhibitors
Medications like Jardiance® and Forxiga® lower blood sugar by increasing glucose excretion through urine and may also provide modest weight loss and cardiovascular benefits.
Alternative 3: Lifestyle-Based Approaches
Lifestyle interventions remain the foundation of long-term weight management—whether used alone or alongside medication.
Nutrition: Mediterranean-style or lower-glycemic eating patterns can improve metabolic health and weight outcomes.
Physical activity: Regular movement improves insulin sensitivity and supports sustainable weight loss.
Professional support: Working with healthcare providers can help address habits, sleep, stress, and emotional eating.
Which Ozempic® Alternative Is Right for You?
- Your primary goal (weight, blood sugar, or both).
- Side-effect tolerance.
- Oral versus injectable preference.
- Cost and insurance coverage.
- Other health conditions or medications.
A licensed healthcare provider can help compare options, adjust dosing, and monitor progress to ensure safety and effectiveness.
A Final Word on Ozempic® Alternatives in Canada
Ozempic® may be helpful for many people, but it’s far from the only path forward. Canada offers several effective alternatives—both medications and lifestyle-based strategies—that can support weight management and type 2 diabetes care.
If Ozempic® isn’t right for you, meaningful
progress is still very achievable with the right guidance and a personalized plan.
Take the Weight Loss Assessment
References
1. “What Is Ozempic® (semaglutide) Injection?” Ozempic, Novo Nordisk, 2025.
- Wexler, David J., and Jennifer B. Green. “Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists.” StatPearls, StatPearls Publishing, 2023.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition or treatment.
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