If you’ve been researching prescription weight loss options in Canada, you’ve likely come across two names: Wegovy® and Zepbound®. Both are Health Canada–approved, both are highly effective, and both require a prescription. But they work slightly differently — and the right choice depends on your individual health profile.

Wegovy® (Semaglutide)

Wegovy® is a weekly injectable medication that targets GLP-1 receptors in the brain and gut to reduce appetite and slow digestion. Semaglutide (Wegovy®) is approved for use in adults and adolescents above 18 years old, starting at 0.25 mg weekly and progressively increasing every four weeks until a maintenance dose of 1.7 mg or 2.4 mg is reached. 

Zepbound® (Tirzepatide)

Zepbound® targets two hormonal pathways instead of one — both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). Tirzepatide (Zepbound®), administered at 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5 or 15 mg every week, is approved for use in adults in Canada and is a GLP-1/GIP dual agonist. The addition of these agents marks a significant step forward for patients in Canada seeking medically supervised options to treat obesity. 

What About Cost in Canada?

If you don’t have insurance coverage, GLP-1 weight loss drugs typically cost around $300 to $450 per month, depending on your prescribed dose. There is encouraging news on the horizon: Canada could soon become the first country in the world to offer a cheaper, generic version of semaglutide to people with prescriptions. Experts estimate generics could bring the cost down to approximately $100 to $125 per month. 

Does Insurance Cover These Medications?

Most provincial health plans currently cover GLP-1 medications like Ozempic only for managing diabetes. However, many private insurance plans do cover GLP-1 medications for weight management, especially if your BMI is above 30, or above 27 with certain medical conditions. 

Which Medication Is Right for You?

Obesity treatment should always be tailored to each person’s specific health needs, values, and preferences. Our prescribers use the latest 2025 Canadian clinical guidelines — including a structured decision tool — to match each patient to the medication most appropriate for their individual health profile.

Start your assessment and let a licensed prescriber guide your options →

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