What is the Best Injection for Weight Loss? Expert Guide
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The best injection for weight loss depends on your body, your health conditions, and your care team’s recommendations.
Several FDA-approved medications are available, each with specific benefits, safety considerations, and approved uses.
How our guide works
This guide covers the seven most prescribed injections, how they compare in effectiveness, dosing, and approved uses, and the key side effects to know.
knownwell can help you decide which medication fits your situation and what to expect from long-term GLP-1-based treatment.
Disclaimer: There’s no single best weight-loss drug. The best fit is the one that matches your needs and medical history, and that you and your provider choose through shared decision-making.
Disclaimer: knownwell prescribes only branded, FDA-approved medications. Compounded versions of GLP-1 medications may contain inconsistent doses or ingredients that do not match FDA-approved formulations. These products can increase the risk of side effects and may not support effective weight loss.
Who qualifies for prescription weight-loss injections?
Adults who qualify for FDA-approved weight-loss injections need to meet at least one of the following criteria:
- A BMI of 30 or higher
- A BMI of 27 or higher with a weight-related condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or fatty liver disease
Your care team will also consider your health history, medications, pregnancy plans, and long-term goals when deciding whether an injection is appropriate.
How we evaluated these weight-loss injections
We evaluated these weight-loss injections by looking beyond basic numbers to understand how these medications work in real life.
Our evaluation looks at how people actually use these treatments, including health goals, possible side effects, day-to-day experience, and access to care.
Clinical effectiveness
We reviewed each medication’s impact on:
- Average weight loss
- Improvements to metabolic health
- Additional benefits, such as heart-health outcomes or sleep apnea improvement
Side-effect profile
We looked at side effects, such as:
- Gastrointestinal symptoms
- Potential risk for gallbladder issues
- Contraindications in pregnancy
- Whether dose escalation affects tolerability
Access and coverage
Cost and insurance criteria vary widely. We took into account:
- How often medications are approved
- Common barriers
- Whether a medication is used for diabetes, obesity, or both
FDA approval status
Our evaluation stays within FDA criteria for:
- Obesity and overweight treatment
- Diabetes management
- Sleep apnea in adults (Zepbound)
- Cardiovascular risk reduction (Wegovy)
- Rare genetic forms of obesity (Imcivree)
Additional factors
- Weekly vs daily dosing
- Gradual dose increases
- Potential benefits for fatty liver disease markers
- Child/adolescent approval status, where applicable
Disclaimer: Pricing for weight-loss injections varies widely and depends on factors like your insurance plan, Medicare eligibility, pharmacy benefits, and the specific medication your care team prescribes.
Best weight-loss injections
Each medication below includes what it does, who benefits from it, and how it fits into a long-term treatment plan. While research can show which medications tend to support the greatest average weight loss, the right option depends on the individual.
1. Zepbound (tirzepatide 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg)
Zepbound contains tirzepatide, a medication that activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors.
What Zepbound does
- Helps reduce appetite and portion sizes
- Supports lower blood sugar and improved metabolic markers
- Targets two hormone receptors involved in weight regulation
Who it’s for
Consider Zepbound if you:
- Live with obesity or are overweight and have a weight-related condition
- Have obstructive sleep apnea and meet eligibility criteria
- Are looking for a weekly medication
- Have not reached your goals with other options
Key features
- Dual-pathway approach supports meaningful weight loss
- Weekly injection
- Approved for both obesity and sleep apnea in adults
Benefit(s)
- A review of clinical trials shows weight loss in people without type 2 diabetes (up to 20.9%) and in those with type 2 diabetes (up to 14.7%).
- A weekly dosing schedule offers convenience over a daily routine.
- In this study of people with obstructive sleep apnea taking Zepbound, 42% to 51.5% met the criteria for disease resolution (defined as fewer than 5 breathing pauses per hour, or mild sleep apnea without excessive sleepiness) after one year.
Considerations
- Insurance coverage varies
- Gastrointestinal symptoms usually occur during dose escalation
- Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding
Pricing
If you are self-paying, Zepbound can cost over $1,200 per month.
Bottom line
Zepbound is a helpful option for adults looking for significant weight loss or support for sleep apnea. The right choice depends on your goals, your health profile, and how you respond to medication over time.
2. Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg)
Wegovy contains semaglutide, a medication studied extensively for weight loss and cardiovascular benefits in adults with obesity or overweight and heart disease.
What Wegovy does
Who it’s for
Consider Wegovy if you:
- Live with obesity or are overweight and have a related condition
- Prefer weekly dosing
- Are interested in a medication with cardiovascular benefits
- Have risk factors for fatty liver disease or metabolic concerns
Key features
- Studies show weight-loss outcomes (ranging from 14.9 to 17.4% over 68 weeks) when combined with nutrition and lifestyle support
- Weekly dosing
- FDA approved for reducing cardiovascular events in certain adults
Benefit(s)
- Supports weight loss and heart-health outcomes
- Once-weekly injection
- Helpful for people managing multiple metabolic conditions
Considerations
- Gastrointestinal side effects occur, especially during dose increases
- Insurance requirements are strict
- Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding
Pricing
If you are self-paying, Wegovy costs over $1,300 per month.
Bottom line
Wegovy is often considered for adults who want support with weight loss and heart health. Your care team will help determine whether it fits your health history and insurance requirements.
3. Ozempic (semaglutide 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg)
People often compare Ozempic and other weight-loss drugs such as Wegovy, Zepbound, and Saxenda.
Ozempic is a weekly semaglutide injection approved for type 2 diabetes. It is approved for diabetes management at lower doses with weight loss as a beneficial side effect.
What Ozempic does
Who it’s for
Consider Ozempic if you:
- Have type 2 diabetes
- Are looking for better glucose control with added weight-loss effects
- Need a medication with strong evidence for reducing cardiovascular risk in diabetes
Key features
- Weekly injection
- Weight loss averaged 6% to 7% of body weight at a dose of 1.0 mg in clinical trials for type 2 diabetes
Benefit(s)
- Strong evidence for type 2 diabetes management
- Weekly dosing
- Supports weight reduction
Considerations
- Not FDA-approved solely for weight loss
- Some insurance plans require proof of prior medication trials
- Gastrointestinal side effects are possible
Pricing
If you are self-paying, Ozempic can cost over $1,300 per month.
Bottom line
Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes. Your care team may prescribe it it fo for its weight management benefits alongside glucose control
4. Mounjaro (tirzepatide 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg)
Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, the same active ingredient as Zepbound, but it is FDA-approved specially for type 2 diabetes and not obesity.
What Mounjaro does
Who it’s for
Consider Mounjaro if you:
- Have type 2 diabetes
- Want support with both blood sugar control and weight reduction
- Prefer a weekly injection
Key features
- Uses a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist (RA) mechanism
- Weekly dosing
- It can support weight loss in people with diabetes
Benefit(s)
- Strong blood sugar control
- Weekly dosing
- Supports weight loss
Considerations
- Not FDA-approved for obesity
- Gastrointestinal symptoms during dose escalation
- Coverage varies
Pricing
If you are self-paying, Mounjaro costs over $1,300 per month.
Bottom line
Mounjaro is approved for type 2 diabetes. Your care team may prescribe it it fo for its weight management benefits alongside glucose control.
5. Saxenda (liraglutide 3.0 mg)
Saxenda contains liraglutide, a medication approved for weight loss.
What Saxenda does
Who it’s for
Consider Saxenda if you:
- Prefer a daily medication
- Haven’t tolerated weekly medications
Key features
- Daily dosing
- FDA-approved for weight loss
Benefit(s)
- Daily dosing allows for smaller incremental increases
Considerations
- Daily injections
- Generally less weight loss compared with newer medications
- Gastrointestinal side effects occur
Pricing
If you are self-paying, Saxenda costs over $1,600 per month.
Bottom line
Saxenda is a helpful option for adults or adolescents who prefer daily dosing or who do not have access to newer weekly medications.
6. Victoza (liraglutide 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg)
Victoza contains liraglutide, the same active ingredient as Saxenda, but at a lower dose.
What Victoza does
- Lowers blood sugar
- Helps reduce appetite
- Supports metabolic health
Who it’s for
Consider Victoza if you:
- Have type 2 diabetes
- Want support with modest weight loss
- Prefer a daily option
Key features
- Daily injection
- Consistent dose options
- Supports blood sugar control
Benefit(s)
- Strong evidence for type 2 diabetes treatment
- Daily dosing allows gradual adjustments
Considerations
- Smaller weight loss compared with weekly medications
- Requires daily injection
- Coverage varies
Pricing
If you are self-paying, Victoza costs over $730 per month.
Bottom line
Victoza is a good fit for adults with type 2 diabetes who prefer a daily medication and want support with modest weight loss.
7. Imcivree (setmelanotide 2mg, 3mg)
Imcivree contains setmelanotide, a medicine used for certain genetic conditions that cause constant hunger and weight gain.
What Imcivree does
- Helps people with certain rare genetic conditions lose weight and keep it off
- Reduces constant hunger
- Helps your body use more energy
Who it’s for
Consider Imcivree if you:
- Have a confirmed eligible genetic obesity syndrome
- Have early-onset, severe obesity
- Are working with a specialist in genetic obesity
Key features
- Daily injection
- Approved for certain adults and children 2+
- Designed for rare, inherited obesity conditions
Benefits
- Meaningful weight loss in eligible conditions
- Helps lower hunger, so it’s easier to eat less
Considerations
- Only for specific, genetically confirmed conditions
- Possible side effects, including skin color changes and nausea
- Requires close follow-up with a specialist
Pricing
If you are self-paying, Imcivree can cost over $37,000 per month.
Bottom line
Imcivree may help people with rare, genetically driven obesity when other options have not worked.
Which weight-loss injection should you choose?
Your knownwell care team is expert at determining which is the most appropriate weight-loss drug for you.
Choose Zepbound if you:
- Live with obesity or are overweight and have a related condition
- Want strong weight-loss support
- Have obstructive sleep apnea and meet criteria
- Prefer weekly dosing
Choose Wegovy if you:
- Want support with weight loss
- Have heart disease and are overweight or obese (to reduce cardiovascular risk)
- Prefer a weekly medication
Choose Ozempic if you:
- Have type 2 diabetes
- Want weight-loss benefits alongside glucose control
- Prefer weekly dosing
Choose Mounjaro if you:
- Have type 2 diabetes and want strong glycemic control
- Would benefit from added weight-loss effects
- Prefer a weekly medication
Choose Saxenda if you:
- Prefer a daily medication
- Haven’t tolerated weekly injections
- Want support with modest weight loss
Choose Victoza if you:
- Have type 2 diabetes
- Prefer a daily option
- Want support with modest weight loss
Choose Imcivree if you:
- Have a rare genetic condition that causes obesity
- Have genetic testing that confirms you qualify
- Have strong, ongoing hunger
- Are okay with a daily injection
Speak with your care team if:
- You are pregnant or planning a pregnancy
- You are breastfeeding
- You have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (FDA boxed warning)
Our final verdict
Our final verdict is that the best injection for weight loss depends on the person. Each of these weight-loss shots can be helpful in the right circumstances.
But the best weight-loss injection depends on your health history, how you feel about weekly or daily dosing, and the conditions you’re managing.
Some people benefit from weight-loss medications like Zepbound, Wegovy, or Imcivree. While others find that options used for type 2 diabetes (such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, Saxenda, or Victoza) better match their needs.
What knownwell offers:
- Personalized nutrition plans tailored to your journey
- Physicians specializing in metabolic health
- Registered dietitians for medical nutrition therapy and ongoing food guidance
- Compassionate, judgment-free care and practical tips from knownwell professionals
This kind of integrated support helps you find what works for your body.
Ready to get started?
- Virtual visits: Available from home in all 50 states
- In-person clinics: Boston area, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Atlanta
- Insurance accepted: Most major plans offer coverage. See if we accept your insurance.
Your care team will help you find the right mix of exercise, nutrition, and medical support for your body. This means you can feel stronger, more energized, and confident in your own health journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best weight-loss shot in 2025?
The best weight-loss shot varies by individual. Medications like Zepbound and Wegovy often show meaningful weight-loss outcomes.
Your health history, related conditions, and insurance coverage all factor in.
How much weight can you lose with Zepbound or Wegovy?
The amount of weight you can lose varies. Depending on the dose, the data from clinical trials differ, but many show that with tirzepatide (Zepbound), you can lose up to 20.9% of body weight (after 72 weeks). While with semaglutide (Wegovy), you can lose an average of 14.9%.
How much weight loss is safe?
Clinical guidelines typically recommend an initial goal of losing 5% to 10% of your body weight over a period of 6 months.
Rapid weight loss increases muscle loss and can slow metabolism over time. Your care team will monitor your progress so that you lose weight safely.
Is Mounjaro the same as Zepbound?
Both Mounjaro and Zepbound contain tirzepatide. Zepbound is approved for obesity and sleep apnea, while Mounjaro is approved for type 2 diabetes.
What is the difference between Zepbound and Mounjaro?
The key difference is their FDA-approved uses, dosing guidance, and insurance criteria.
Is Mounjaro approved for weight loss?
No, Mounjaro is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes. Zepbound (with the same active ingredient, tirzepatide) is the version approved for chronic weight management.
What is the difference between Ozempic and Wegovy?
Ozempic and Wegovy contain the same active ingredient (semaglutide), but they’re FDA-approved for different uses (type 2 diabetes vs. weight management).
Can I get weight-loss shots without having diabetes?
Yes, some medications are FDA-approved for weight loss in adults without diabetes, including Zepbound and Wegovy.
What are Wegovy side effects and Ozempic side effects?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Dose escalation helps many people tolerate medication more comfortably.
Which injection is more affordable?
Cost depends on your insurance coverage, which varies significantly between plans. Some insurance plans cover medications for weight management, while others don't. Your care team can help you understand your coverage options.
What is the safest weight-loss injection?
Safety depends on your medical history. Most weight-loss injections have similar common side effects. Your care team will help determine what’s appropriate.
Are GLP-1s approved for teens?
Saxenda is approved for adolescents ages 12 and older. Wegovy is approved for certain adolescents. Zepbound is approved only for adults.
Do these medications require long-term use?
These medications are often used long-term. If stopped, appetite and weight could return, which is why ongoing support is important.
Are these injections covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your diagnosis and your plan’s criteria.
Which injection do you lose the most weight on?
Medications like Zepbound and Wegovy tend to produce higher average weight-loss outcomes. What works best for you depends on your health history and preferences.
Does Wegovy help with heart disease?
Wegovy is approved to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in adults with obesity or overweight and heart disease.
Does Zepbound help with obstructive sleep apnea?
Yes, Zepbound is approved to help improve obstructive sleep apnea severity in eligible adults.
Can semaglutide help with fatty liver disease?
Semaglutide may improve certain markers associated with fatty liver disease, though it's not yet approved specifically for this condition.
Do people get more acid reflux on GLP-1s?
Some people experience increased acid reflux or heartburn, as these medications slow stomach emptying.
If acid reflux feels disruptive, check in with your care team - you shouldn't have to suffer in silence.
How can you manage nausea on GLP-1 medications?
Many people feel better with smaller meals, choosing lean proteins, staying hydrated, and limiting high-fat foods.
If nausea feels disruptive, check in with your care team - you shouldn't have to just push through.
Do people get constipated on GLP-1s?
Yes, constipation does occur, especially during dose escalation.
How can I manage constipation on GLP-1 medications?
Hydration, non-starchy vegetables and other fiber-rich foods, movement, and regular follow-up with your care team can help.
If constipation feels disruptive, check in with your care team - you shouldn't have to suffer through.
Can you take these medications while pregnant?
No, these medications should be stopped before pregnancy. Your care team will guide timing.
Can you take GLP-1s while breastfeeding?
These medications are not recommended during breastfeeding. Any decision should involve a thorough risk-benefit discussion with your care team.
How soon after delivering my baby can I start GLP-1 medications?
The right timing dependson breastfeeding, recovery, and medical history. Your care team will help determine your timeline.
When do I have to stop GLP-1 medications before surgery?
Most patients can safely continue these medications before elective surgery, based on 2024 multi-society guidance.
If medication needs to be held, the recommendation is to stop daily medications on the day of surgery and weekly medications one week before surgery.
When can I resume GLP-1 medications after surgery?
Your surgeon and care team will determine the safest time to restart medications.
Can GLP-1s cause hair loss?
Some individuals notice increased hair loss. Balanced nutrition can help support hair health.
Do GLP-1s help with inflammation or swelling?
GLP-1s appear to have anti-inflammatory effects linked to weight loss and metabolic improvements, but results vary by individual.
Do GLP-1s help with bloating?
Generally, no. In fact, bloating (medically termed abdominal distension) is a known side effect that increases, especially when starting treatment.
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