Weight loss

Metformin Vs Semaglutide for Weight Loss: Surprising Insights

The main difference between Metformin and Semaglutide is the mechanism of action. Semaglutide loses weight quicker than Metformin and shows more noticeable weight loss results.

Jack & Jill

Medically Reviewed By Mostafa Elhennawy MS, Pharm D

February 11, 2025

Losing weight is hard, and lifestyle changes alone aren’t always enough. So, to beat obesity, many people consider weight loss drugs like Metformin and Semaglutide.

Metformin is primarily used for diabetes but it’s also taken for weight loss. The results are usually modest. In contrast, Semaglutide, widely endorsed by celebrities and supported by clinical trials, offers more substantial weight loss results.

Now, deciding between Metformin vs. Semaglutide for weight loss involves weighing each medication’s benefits and side effects, as both impact individual health outcomes differently. This article compares Metformin and Semaglutide’s profiles to help you find the best fit for your weight loss journey.

About the Experts

We champion clinical excellence through evidence-based, personalized care. We are also commited to affordable clinically-led care for everyone. With features like same day doctor appointments, judgement free care, 24/7 medical chat support, 50+ pharmacy providers, free shipping we are on to something.

Semaglutide

starting at $248 /mo

Why is Semaglutide getting so popular right now?

Because it works. 92% members have achieved lasting weight loss.

Metformin Vs. Semaglutide: Which One is Better for Weight Loss?

The main difference between Metformin and Semaglutide is the mechanism of action. Semaglutide loses weight quicker than Metformin and shows more noticeable weight loss results.

There are other distinctions between the two weight loss drugs that are summarized in the table below:

	Metformin	Semaglutide
Chemical composition	Biguanide drug	GLP-1 receptor agonist
Mechanism of Action	Reducing hepatic glucose production, enhancing glucose absorption by skeletal muscle, diminishing intestinal absorption, and enhancing insulin sensitivity	Boosting insulin release, decreasing glucagon release, slowing down gastric emptying, and promoting satiety while simultaneously reducing the brain’s reward response to food
Effectiveness	Modest weight loss	Significant weight loss
Side effects	GI issues, decreased vitamin B12 levels, and lactic acidosis	GI issues, pancreatitis, gallstones, hypoglycemia, kidney failure, allergic reactions, vision changes, tachycardia, depression, and suicidal ideation
Cost	$968.52-$1,349.02/package	$11 for 30 tablets/1000 mg dosage
Accessibility	Hard	Hard
Usage Guidelines	There is no labeling information about what dose should be prescribed.	The typical maintenance dose for weight loss is 2.4 mg, administered weekly.

Check out the following subsections to get a more thorough explanation of each difference.

Weight Loss Reviews

“I’ve been on the weight loss program for a couple of months now, and I’m down 33 lbs”

Tyler

“The biggest change was a decrease in my appetite. It just clicked – this was the missing ingredient in my weight loss journey.”

Verified Jack&Jill member

Janice

“This medication has allowed me to continue with minimal disruptions to my daily life other than an actual injection!”

Verified Jack&Jill member

Angela

“I’ve lost 15lbs of weight loss so far, (am targeting 40-50 lbs in total). I have been extremely happy with the help and assistance from the Jack & Jill Health team so far!”

Verified Jack&Jill member

J.G.

“It is easy to use as it is accessible from home and prescriptions are delivered straight to my door. The medication is personalized to my needs and goals and allows me to have a better lifestyle.”

Verified Jack&Jill member

Peter

“So far I’ve lost 22 pounds. This was the motivation I required to get my life back on track and get active again. Great thing with this medication is I’m able to still eat and drink (moderately) how ever I did before”

Verified Jack&Jill member

“I’m very happy with the customer service I’ve been receiving, prescriptions always come on time”

Jenn

“It’s conveniently shipped to your door and no time wasted going to sit in a doctor’s office. There is a personalized profile you log into with a medical chat if you have questions.”

Verified Jack&Jill member

M.B

“I stand here 15 lbs lighter, feeling healthier, more energetic, and more positive about reaching my weight loss goal than I’ve ever been. And the amazing part is that it has only been just over one month!”

Verified Jack&Jill member

Roman

“I was able to lose over 20 pounds, significantly lower my cholesterol levels, and transition from pre-diabetes to a normal range. I am genuinely blown away by the expertise and support provided by the entire staff”

Verified Jack&Jill member

Kassandra

“Their unwavering support has been incredible. The team’s chats and guidance have been instrumental in helping me regain control of my health.”

Verified Jack&Jill member

Melissa

“I have lost 15 lbs and am well on my way to my goal. The support and ease of use works great for me. Discreet packaging and fast shipping.”

Verified Jack&Jill member

Chemical Composition

Metformin and Semaglutide differ in molecular structures and belong to different drug classes. Because of this, they have different pharmacokinetic profiles, meaning that one weight loss medication is more efficient.

Metformin is a biguanide drug derived from the bushy perennial Goat’s rue found in temperate grassland regions of Asia and Europe. Semaglutide, by contrast, is a peptide similar to the hormone GLP-1 released in the gastrointestinal tract in response to eating.

Why Am I Not Losing Weight on Ozempic? 10 Common Reasons

Eli Lilly’s Zepbound, an injectable prescription weight loss medication containing Tirzepatide, is clinically proven to lead to a substantial reduction of body weight. We aim to provide a clear understanding of what compound medications are, how they are prepared, and who can benefit from them. We highlight the scenarios where customized treatments make a significant difference by exploring the intricacies of compounded drugs versus commercial ones. We will also cover the legal and regulatory frameworks ensuring the safety and efficacy of these medications, and offer guidance on how to find a reputable compounding pharmacy.

Ozempic Before and After Pictures: What to Expect

Is Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) Covered by Insurance?

How Long Does Semaglutide Take to Work? Your Monthly Roadmap

How to Get Semaglutide for Weight Loss: A Detailed Guideline

Semaglutide Cost with and Without Insurance: Full Breakdown

Semaglutide Diet Plan: What to Eat and What to Avoid

What is Semaglutide (Ozempic) Made of? Ingredients and Sources

Zepbound vs. Compounded Tirzepatide: Are They Same?

, an injectable medicine used to treat Type 2 diabetes.

Compounded Tirzepatide vs. Mounjaro: What is the Difference?

Tirzepatide and Mounjaro represent the latest advancements in diabetes and obesity management, primarily used in the United States. Tirzepatide, marketed under the name Mounjaro, is a novel medication that targets both glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors. We aim to provide a clear understanding of what compound medications are, how they are prepared, and who can benefit from them. We highlight the scenarios where customized treatments make a significant difference by exploring the intricacies of compounded drugs versus commercial ones. We will also cover the legal and regulatory frameworks ensuring the safety and efficacy of these medications, and offer guidance on how to find a reputable compounding pharmacy.

Compounded Semaglutide Dosage Chart for Weight Loss

A Compounded Semaglutide Dosage Chart is a crucial tool for individuals looking to manage obesity through pharmacotherapy, particularly in the United States where obesity rates are among the highest globally. This chart provides a detailed guide on how to gradually increase the dosage of semaglutide, a medication approved for weight management, to maximize its effectiveness while minimizing potential side effects.

Semaglutide Compound vs. Ozempic: What is the Difference?

Novo Nordisk is the only company in the USA with FDA-approved products (Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus) containing Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. Increasing demand that has led to shortages and high cost for injectable anti-obesity drugs have driven patients to seek alternatives resulting in the growth of compounding pharmacies selling bespoke versions as a substitute for weight loss drugs. The FDA permits compounding of Semaglutide due to shortages or when commercially available medication is not suitable for a particular patient but only if compounding pharmacies and outsourcing facilities are regulated by Section 503A and Section 503B of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. In this article, we will focus on the pros and cons of using Compounded Semaglutide and its branded counterpart Ozempic.

AdobeStock_964006375_Editorial_Use_Only 2

How to Store Compound Tirzepatide: Fridge vs. Room Temperature

As tirzepatide becomes increasingly prescribed, understanding its specific storage requirements is very important. Whether in vials, syringes, or injection pens, tirzepatide injections are highly sensitive to temperature changes. They must be refrigerated prior to use and can only stay out of the fridge for a limited period and under specific conditions.

Compound Semaglutide Overview: Where To Buy, Safety, and Side Effects

Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, was primarily a drug in diabetes therapy that was subsequently FDA approved for long-term weight management, cardiovascular risk reduction and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in patients with HIV. The FDA permits the compounding of Semaglutide due to shortages but only if the product is compounded by pharmacies following the regulations contained in Section 503A of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act).In this article we will cover how to obtain Compounded Semaglutide (CS), its potential side effects, who is eligible for using CS for weight loss and what are unauthorized forms of CS.

When Do Doctors Prescribe Ozempic for Weight Loss?

Ozempic, initially approved as a medication for managing type 2 diabetes, has also gained significant attention for its role in weight loss. Prescribed by doctors under specific circumstances, Ozempic can be a part of a comprehensive weight management plan, particularly for individuals struggling with clinical obesity. Its active ingredient, semaglutide, has been shown to affect appetite and calorie intake, contributing to weight reduction.

5 Best Ozempic Alternatives to Consider for Weight Loss

Ozempic and Mounjaro are FDA approved medications for Type 2 diabetes treatment that are helping lose weight due to their weight management capability. FDA approval date for Ozempic was December 5, 2017, and for Mounjaro May 13, 2022. In this article we will explore their differences in various contexts relevant to patients.

What are Ozempic Ingredients?

Ozempic is a popular medication primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes and, more recently, for aiding in weight loss. At the core of Ozempic's formulation is the active ingredient semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that mimics the action of the natural hormone GLP-1. Understanding the ingredients of Ozempic is essential for anyone considering or currently using this medication, whether for diabetes management or weight loss. Knowing the active and inactive components helps in identifying potential allergic reactions and understanding how the medication works within the body.

GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss and Diabetes

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists gained fame as a very effective treatment for people with Type 2 diabetes and/or obese individuals. Despite clinically proven benefits, it is very important to review the patient’s medical history and discuss potential risks with a healthcare provider prior to deciding what weight loss medication is the right choice. In this article we will discuss the most popular weight-controlling GLP-1 medications as well as GLP-1 medications that can be beneficial for Type 1 Diabetes.

Ozempic vs. Wegovy: What is the Difference?

Ozempic and Wegovy are brand names of essentially the same drug produced by Danish drugmaker Novo Nordisk. Ozempic is primarily used for glycemic control in patients with Type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is prescribed for chronic weight management in children aged 12 and adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition. It is important to understand how these two medicines differ in order to make informed health decisions which will be the focus of this article.

What Does Ozempic Look Like: How to Spot Fake Ozempic

Ozempic, a prescription medication widely used for the management of type 2 diabetes, has garnered significant attention for its efficacy in lowering blood sugar levels and aiding weight loss. However, with its rising popularity, the market has seen an influx of counterfeit versions, which pose serious health risks to users. It is crucial for patients and healthcare providers to distinguish genuine Ozempic from these fakes to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. Ensuring that one receives authentic Ozempic not only safeguards against potential side effects but also guarantees the therapeutic benefits it promises.

What Does Mounjaro Look Like? How to Spot a Fake One

Mounjaro, a revolutionary medication approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, has gained prominence due to its effectiveness in improving blood sugar levels and aiding in weight loss. As Mounjaro becomes increasingly popular, it also becomes a target for counterfeiters, posing significant risks to patients. Counterfeit medications may contain harmful substances or incorrect doses, leading to potentially dangerous health consequences. Therefore, it is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers to be vigilant about ensuring the authenticity of Mounjaro to safeguard its therapeutic integrity and patient safety.

What is Semaglutide Salt? A Detailed Explanation

Semaglutide salts are essential for managing type 2 diabetes and weight loss. We recognize the importance of effective treatment options in improving health outcomes. This article will guide you through the specifics of semaglutide sodium and semaglutide acetate, highlighting their unique benefits. By exploring these formulations, we can help you make informed decisions about your health. These options not only improve treatment effectiveness but also offer stability and better absorption. Let’s explore how semaglutide salts can enhance your health and support your journey to wellness.

Ozempic and Exercise: Why It Is Critical to Keep Working Out

It’s tempting to let go of a regular exercise routine when you are on ozempic. However, it can cause major health issues if you only rely on ozempic to lose weight. This article aims to guide you on how to effectively combine Ozempic with a regular exercise routine to maximize health benefits. We'll discuss how exercise enhances the effectiveness of Ozempic, best practices for creating a safe and effective workout regimen, and strategies for overcoming common challenges like weight loss plateaus.

Understanding Ozempic After Gastric Bypass: Potential Side Effects

Ozempic after gastric bypass surgery can be a valuable tool for managing weight and blood sugar levels. In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of how Ozempic can support post-surgery care. We'll cover its uses, efficacy, and safety profile, along with practical tips for minimizing and managing side effects. Our goal is to give you the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your treatment and work closely with your healthcare provider. By understanding how Ozempic works and how to manage its use, you can better achieve your health goals and maintain your well-being after gastric bypass surgery.

Zepbound Alternatives: Over-the-Counter and Compounded Tirzepatide

Zepbound (Tirzeparide) is injectable glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) and gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) agonist approved by FDA for use in obese (BMI≥30) or overweight adults (BMI≥27) with at least one weight-related condition who struggle to reduce body weight by changing diet and regular exercise. However, despite the effectiveness proven by clinical studies due to the high cost, side effects and route of administration it might not be suitable for everyone. In this article we will discuss available alternatives: over-the-counter options and compounded Tirzepatide.

Zepbound vs Mounjaro: Choose the Right Medication for You

Zepbound and Mounjaro belong to the class of medication known as GLP-1 receptor agonists which gained fame thanks to their superior control of blood sugar levels and weight loss effects. Zepbound and Mounjaro are essentially the same medicine prescribed for different health conditions. In this article we will review what the differences are and how to choose between them.

Compounded Tirzepatide: Clinical Insights, Side Effects, and Cost

Tirzepatide, a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist, is an injectable prescription medicine FDA approved for Type 2 diabetes treatment (Mounjaro) and weight management (Zepbound). Compounded Tirzepatide, if it is made to be “essentially a copy”, has the same efficacy and side effects as a commercial counterpart for a fraction of the cost. In this article we will discuss Compounded Tirzepatide dosage and administration, potential side effects, safety and legality and how to choose a reliable Compounding pharmacy.

What Does Zepbound Look Like and How to Spot a Fake

This article guides you through identifying real Zepbound from counterfeits. Knowing the differences can protect you from potential health risks associated with fake drugs. Counterfeit medications often look convincing but lack the effectiveness and safety of genuine products. By understanding key features like packaging, documentation, and physical characteristics, you can confidently verify your medication. This article provides practical steps and tips to help you spot fake Zepbound, ensuring you receive safe and effective treatment. Your health and peace of mind are worth the effort.

Ozempic Dosing Guidelines for Effective Weight Loss

Ozempic is FDA approved prescription drug for glycemic control and reduction of the risk of cardiovascular death, heart attack and stroke in adults with Type 2 diabetes and treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in people with HIV. Ozempic is widely used as an off-label drug for weight management. A health care provider can prescribe a suitable dose of Ozempic according to the patient's medical history, current conditions and allergies. In this article we will discuss recommended Ozempic dosage for weight loss, dosing schedule and adjustments, side effects and cost of Ozempic.

Comparing Weight Loss Injection Options: Types and Costs

Choosing the right weight loss injection can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available. In this article, we will guide you through different types of weight loss injections, their costs, their effectiveness, and what you need to consider to make an informed decision. You'll explore popular injections like Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and others, discussing how they work, their benefits, and potential side effects. This article’s goal is to help you understand these treatments better, so you can confidently discuss your options with your healthcare provider. Let's dive in and find the best solution for your weight management needs.

Mounjaro vs. Ozempic: What is the Difference?

Mechanisms of Action

Metformin lowers basal and postprandial blood glucose levels by reducing hepatic glucose production and enhancing glucose absorption by skeletal muscle. It also diminishes intestinal absorption and improves insulin sensitivity.

On the other hand, Semaglutide reduces appetite by signaling to the brain that a person has eaten. This produces more insulin and decreases glucagon, which improves blood glucose control. Semaglutide leads to weight loss by making a person feel fuller for longer.

Effectiveness

Metformin can reduce BMI by about one unit, which is minimal for a weight loss drug. Patients who lost over 5% of body weight in the first year maintained an average 6.2% weight loss over 6 to 15 years. Semaglutide, however, is more effective, reducing body weight by up to 15%.

In a study of 2,000 obese adults, those taking Semaglutide with diet and exercise lost significantly more: half lost 15%, and nearly one-third lost 20% of their body weight, while lifestyle changes alone led to just 2.4% weight loss.

Side Effects

Metformin commonly causes gastrointestinal issues. Chest discomfort, headache, diaphoresis, hypoglycemia, weakness, decreased vitamin B12 levels, and lactic acidosis are less common.

Semaglutide’s side effects include gastrointestinal issues, pancreatitis, gallstones, hypoglycemia, kidney failure, allergic reactions, vision changes, tachycardia, depression, and suicidal ideation.

The patient should consult the healthcare provider before acquiring a prescription for Semaglutide or Metformin.

Cost and Accessibility

The cost of Metformin and Semaglutide varies by treatment plan, insurance, and pharmacy discounts. Metformin, a generic drug, costs around $11 for 30 tablets (1000 mg). In contrast, Novo Nordisk’s patented Semaglutide is much pricier: Ozempic® and Rybelsus® cost $968.52 for a 28-day supply, while Wegovy® costs $1,349.02. Insurance can significantly reduce Semaglutide costs, but many still face high out-of-pocket expenses.

Usage Guidelines

The starting dose of Semaglutide is 0.25 mg weekly for the first month, gradually increasing to a typical weight loss dose of 2.4 mg. Unlike Semaglutide, which is injected, Metformin is taken orally in three forms: oral suspension, immediate-release, and extended-release tablets.

Initial doses for immediate-release Metformin are 500 mg twice daily or 850 mg once daily, increasing as tolerated, with a maintenance dose of 2000 mg/day. Extended-release Metformin starts at 500-1000 mg daily, with a maximum of 2000 mg/day. While Metformin isn’t approved for weight loss, studies suggest 1500 mg may reduce weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Take Metformin and Semaglutide Together?

Yes, it is safe to take Semaglutide and Metformin together. The differences between Metformin and Semaglutide in how they control blood sugar mean that combining the two offers complementary effects for improved glycemic control and weight management. Some people suffer mild to moderate gastrointestinal side effects from Metformin, which are not worsened by adding Semaglutide.

Does Insurance Cover Semaglutide and Metformin for Weight Loss?

No, insurance does not cover Semaglutide and Metformin for weight loss, even though obesity is linked to several health risks. For this, there have to be obesity-related medical problems. Also, taking Metformin for weight loss is regarded as an off-label use because it is approved for diabetes.

Are Semaglutide and Metformin Safe for Long-term Use?

Yes, Semaglutide and Metformin are generally safe for long-term use. However, healthcare professionals must check the kidneys and vitamin B12 levels at least once a year, especially if the patient taking Metformin is tired, breathless, and faint. Also, there is a minimal risk of gallbladder disease associated with longer-term use of Semaglutide.

Key Takeaways

Semaglutide is very effective at controlling appetite and weight, while Metformin is linked to a slight decrease in body weight.
The mechanisms of action, efficacy, dosage forms, and strengths of Metformin and Semaglutide are very different.
Semaglutide and Metformin are considered safe for long-term use. However, regular follow-up is important to monitor for rare adverse effects and ensure safe and effective use over the long term.
Metformin is more affordable than branded Semaglutide.

Sources

Brandfon S, Eylon A, Khanna D, Parmar MS. Advances in Anti-obesity Pharmacotherapy: Current Treatments, Emerging Therapies, and Challenges. Cureus. 2023 Oct 7;15(10):e46623. doi: 10.7759/cureus.46623. PMID: 37937009; PMCID: PMC10626572.

Chakhtoura M, Haber R, Ghezzawi M, Rhayem C, Tcheroyan R, Mantzoros CS. Pharmacotherapy of obesity: an update on the available medications and drugs under investigation. EClinicalMedicine. 2023 Mar 20;58:101882. doi: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.101882. PMID: 36992862; PMCID: PMC10041469.

Metformin

9. Pharmacologic Approaches to Glycemic Treatment: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2024

Han SH, Safeek R, Ockerman K, Trieu N, Mars P, Klenke A, Furnas H, Sorice-Virk S. Public Interest in the Off-Label Use of Glucagon-like Peptide 1 Agonists (Ozempic) for Cosmetic Weight Loss: A Google Trends Analysis. Aesthet Surg J. 2023 Dec 14;44(1):60-67. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjad211. PMID: 37402640.

Andraos J, Smith SR, Tran A, Pham DQ. Narrative review of data supporting alternate first-line therapies over metformin in type 2 diabetes. J Diabetes Metab Disord. 2024 Mar 25;23(1):385-394. doi: 10.1007/s40200-024-01406-6. PMID: 38932889; PMCID: PMC11196467.

Rena G, Hardie DG, Pearson ER. The mechanisms of action of metformin. Diabetologia. 2017 Sep;60(9):1577-1585. doi: 10.1007/s00125-017-4342-z. Epub 2017 Aug 3. PMID: 28776086; PMCID: PMC5552828.

Mulherin AJ, Oh AH, Kim H, Grieco A, Lauffer LM, Brubaker PL. Mechanisms underlying metformin-induced secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1 from the intestinal L cell. Endocrinology. 2011 Dec;152(12):4610-9. doi: 10.1210/en.2011-1485. Epub 2011 Oct 4. PMID: 21971158.

Pharmaceutical Roots: Metformin – could leading antidiabetic become ‘The aspirin of the 21st century?’

Apolzan JW, Venditti EM, Edelstein SL, Knowler WC, Dabelea D, Boyko EJ, Pi-Sunyer X, Kalyani RR, Franks PW, Srikanthan P, Gadde KM; Diabetes Prevention Program Research Group. Long-Term Weight Loss With Metformin or Lifestyle Intervention in the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study. Ann Intern Med. 2019 May 21;170(10):682-690. doi: 10.7326/M18-1605. Epub 2019 Apr 23. Erratum in: Ann Intern Med. 2020 Sep 15;173(6):508. doi: 10.7326/L20-0029. PMID: 31009939; PMCID: PMC6829283.

Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S, Davies M, Van Gaal LF, Lingvay I, McGowan BM, Rosenstock J, Tran MTD, Wadden TA, Wharton S, Yokote K, Zeuthen N, Kushner RF; STEP 1 Study Group. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2021 Mar 18;384(11):989-1002. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2032183. Epub 2021 Feb 10. PMID: 33567185.