Wegovy Pill vs. Injection: Which Is Right for You?
Wegovy now comes as a daily pill or weekly injection. Learn how they compare in effectiveness, dosing, and convenience.
Wegovy (semaglutide) is now available in two forms: a once-daily pill or a once-weekly injection. Both contain the same active ingredient and work the same way to suppress appetite and support weight loss—but they differ significantly in how you take them.
How They Compare
| Feature | Injection | Pill |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency | Once weekly | Once daily |
| Dose | Up to 2.4 mg | Up to 25 mg |
| Absorption | Near-complete (~100%) | Low (~0.8%) |
| Fasting | Not required | 30 min before and after |
| Water | No restriction | Max 120 mL (4 oz) |
| Needle | Yes | No |
Effectiveness
Both versions produce similar weight loss when taken correctly:
- Injection: ~14–15% body weight loss over 64–68 weeks
- Pill: ~14–17% body weight loss (OASIS 4 trial)
The key difference is adherence—some patients find weekly injections easier to maintain, while others prefer a daily pill routine.
Dosing Schedules
Injection: Start at 0.25 mg weekly, increasing gradually to 2.4 mg over ~4 months.
Pill: Start at 1.5 mg daily, increase monthly through 4 mg and 9 mg to reach 25 mg.
Key Differences to Consider
The Injection May Work Better If You:
- Prefer less frequent dosing
- Take multiple medications (no timing conflicts)
- Want predictable absorption without dietary restrictions
- Don't mind self-injecting
The Pill May Work Better If You:
- Have needle anxiety
- Prefer oral medications
- Can commit to strict morning fasting (no food, drink, or other meds for 30 minutes after taking)
- Travel frequently (no refrigeration needed)
Side Effects
Both versions share the same common side effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Decreased appetite
These typically improve after dose increases. The pill's fasting requirement may worsen nausea for some patients.
Cost & Availability
- Pricing: List prices are similar between formulations (pricing is dependent per market)
- Self-pay: Starting at ~$149/month for the pill (1.5 mg dose)
- Insurance: Coverage varies; manufacturer savings cards may reduce costs
- Availability: Pill is US-only as of early 2026; injection is available in multiple countries
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from the injection to the pill? Only under clinician supervision. The doses are not equivalent, and your doctor will need to determine the appropriate starting point.
Why is the pill dose (25 mg) so much higher than the injection (2.4 mg)? Oral semaglutide has approximately 0.8% bioavailability—meaning only a tiny fraction reaches your bloodstream. The injection delivers medication directly into circulation.
What if I eat too soon after taking the pill? Food within 30 minutes significantly reduces absorption and effectiveness. Take the pill only when you can guarantee the fasting window.
Is one more effective than the other? Clinical trials show similar weight loss results. The best choice depends on which formulation you're more likely to take consistently.
Important Legal & Medical Disclaimer
Not Medical Advice This article is provided solely for educational purposes. Always consult your healthcare provider to determine which formulation suits your medical history and lifestyle, and to review side effects, contraindications, and monitoring plans.
Do Not Switch Without Guidance
Never switch between Wegovy formulations (injection to pill or vice versa) without clinician supervision. Doses are not equivalent between formulations.
Follow Official Instructions
Always follow the official prescribing information and Instructions for Use (IFU) provided by Novo Nordisk included with your medication packaging.
No Liability
We are not responsible for any dosing errors, health outcomes, or adverse events resulting from the use of this educational information. Users assume full responsibility for any decisions made regarding their medication administration.