Choosing between Wegovy and Phentermine for weight loss is like choosing between coffee and energy drinks—they give you a boost but work differently.
The main difference between Wegovy and phentermine is that Wegovy, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, helps regulate appetite and blood sugar over the long term, while phentermine is a short-term stimulant that suppresses appetite, revving up your metabolism in the process.
Let’s explore the details, benefits, and potential side effects of these two weight loss drugs so you can make an informed decision about your weight loss journey.
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist—fancy talk for a drug that mimics a hormone in your gut to help manage your appetite, blood sugar levels, and, ultimately, your weight.
Initially designed for people with type 2 diabetes (its sibling, Ozempic, is still used), Wegovy received FDA approval for chronic weight management. It tells your brain you’re full and can slow how food leaves your stomach. It’s like giving your appetite a chill pill.
This medication is used with a healthy diet and lifestyle changes—no magic here.
Wegovy is typically recommended for long-term use, especially for those struggling with obesity or related health conditions, like high blood pressure or heart disease.
Potential benefits
Significant weight loss
In clinical trials, patients using Wegovy experienced an average weight loss of 15% of their body weight—which, in the world of weight loss medications, is like hitting the jackpot.
Combine that with a reduced-calorie diet and lifestyle modifications, and you’ve got a serious contender for chronic weight management.
Blood sugar control
Wegovy is closely related to semaglutide drugs for type 2 diabetes, which also help lower blood sugar levels.
This dual action is a game-changer for people who are managing obesity and diabetes.
Long-term solution
Unlike some weight loss drugs that are meant for short-term use (looking at you, phentermine), Wegovy is meant to be part of a long-term weight management strategy.
This helps keep the weight off and reduces the likelihood of weight regain.
Cardiovascular benefits
Studies suggest that Wegovy may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, such as heart attacks and strokes.
Given that obesity is a key risk factor for these conditions, this makes Wegovy a heavy hitter in more ways than one.
Uses
Wegovy is primarily used for chronic weight management in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater or 27 or greater with at least one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or heart disease.
The medication is administered via injection once a week, and yes, it’s one of those long-term weight loss drugs—the type that grows on you (not literally).
Potential side effects
Like any other prescription medication, Wegovy has its downsides. Side effects range from the minor to the more serious.
Common side effects
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and, oh yes, everyone’s favorite, dry mouth.
These tend to be more pronounced when starting the medication but can subside as your body adjusts.
Serious side effects
More serious side effects are rare but possible, including pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and kidney issues.
If you experience severe abdominal pain or notice any changes in urination, it’s time to call your healthcare provider.
What is Phentermine?
Unlike Wegovy, phentermine is not about slow and steady; it’s more like hitting fast-forward on your weight loss.
It’s a short-term appetite suppressant used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet for people with a BMI of 30 or greater, or 27 with related conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease.
It’s designed for short-term use—typically up to 12 weeks—and works by stimulating your central nervous system, which increases your heart rate and blood pressure, and suppresses your appetite.
Think of it as a jolt of energy to kickstart your weight loss.
Potential benefits
Quick weight loss
Phentermine users typically see rapid weight loss, which can be encouraging if you’re looking for fast results.
However, it’s not meant for long-term use, so it’s more of a jumpstart than a marathon.
Affordable option
Compared to other weight loss medications like Wegovy, phentermine is relatively inexpensive. This makes it a more accessible option for people looking to shed pounds on a budget.
Increases energy levels
Since phentermine is a stimulant, many users report an increase in energy.
This can be particularly helpful when starting new lifestyle modifications, like hitting the gym or maintaining a reduced-calorie diet.
FDA-approved for short-term use
Phentermine has been used since the 1950s and is FDA-approved for short-term weight loss.
Its long history of use makes it a well-known option for weight reduction.
Uses
Phentermine is generally prescribed for short-term use—usually 12 weeks or less—and is targeted toward individuals with a high body mass index who haven’t been able to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.
It’s best for those who need a quick boost to kick off their weight loss journey, and works best when paired with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise.
Potential side effects
Phentermine’s side effects are largely tied to its stimulant nature.
Common side effects
You may experience dry mouth, insomnia, increased heart rate, and even anxiety.
Essentially, it’s like having one too many espressos.
Serious side effects
More serious side effects can include elevated blood pressure, heart palpitations, and even cardiovascular disease risks, especially if misused or taken for too long.
Wegovy vs. phentermine: Similarities and differences
How they’re similar
Both Wegovy and phentermine are weight loss drugs approved by the FDA, and both require a prescription.
They’re also designed to be used alongside a healthy diet and lifestyle changes—neither is a substitute for hard work, unfortunately.
How they’re different
While phentermine is a stimulant that works by suppressing appetite short-term, Wegovy regulates hunger through hormones and is used for long-term weight management.
Also, phentermine is taken daily in pill form, whereas Wegovy is injected weekly.
Wegovy vs. phentermine: Is one better than the other?
When to pick Wegovy
Wegovy is ideal for those looking for a long-term solution to manage their weight, especially if you have type 2 diabetes or other health conditions that benefit from GLP-1 receptor agonists.
It’s also great for patients who want to avoid the potential cardiovascular risks associated with stimulants like phentermine.
When to pick phentermine
If you’re seeking quick results or are not ready for injections, phentermine might be more up your alley.
It’s especially useful if you need a short-term jumpstart and don’t have a history of heart disease or high blood pressure.
The bottom line
If you’re looking for fast, short-term weight loss, phentermine can be a solid option.
But for sustainable, long-term weight management, particularly if you have underlying health issues like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure, Wegovy may be the better choice.
