What are the Canadian brand names for semaglutide (GLP-1 receptor agonist)?

Canadian Brand Names for Semaglutide

In Canada, semaglutide is available under the brand names Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus, each with specific indications and formulations. 1, 2

Available Formulations in Canada

Injectable Formulations:

• Ozempic: Injectable semaglutide for type 2 diabetes management

  • Available as a pre-filled pen for subcutaneous weekly injection
  • Doses: 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, and 1.0 mg 2, 3

• Wegovy: Injectable semaglutide specifically approved for weight management

  • Weekly subcutaneous injection
  • Higher dose (2.4 mg) specifically for obesity treatment 1, 4

Oral Formulation:

• Rybelsus: Oral tablet formulation of semaglutide
  • Available in 3 mg, 7 mg, and 14 mg doses
  • Taken once daily on an empty stomach 2, 5

Key Differences Between Formulations

• Indication: While Ozempic and Rybelsus are primarily indicated for type 2 diabetes, Wegovy is specifically approved for weight management 1, 2

• Dosing:

  • Ozempic: Weekly injection starting at 0.25 mg and titrating to 0.5-1.0 mg
  • Wegovy: Weekly injection with higher dosing (up to 2.4 mg) for weight management
  • Rybelsus: Daily oral tablet taken on an empty stomach 2

• Administration requirements:

  • Injectable formulations (Ozempic, Wegovy): Subcutaneous injection once weekly
  • Rybelsus: Must be taken on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before first food, beverage, or other medications, with no more than 120 mL of plain water 2

Clinical Considerations

• All formulations contain semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that acts on the hypothalamus to suppress appetite, delay gastric emptying, increase glucose-dependent insulin release, and decrease glucagon secretion 1

• Common adverse effects include gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), which typically improve with gradual dose titration 1, 2

• Potential serious adverse effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder disorders, and retinopathy progression 1, 6

• These medications have demonstrated cardiovascular benefits in clinical trials, with semaglutide showing a 26% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with established cardiovascular disease 1, 2

Availability and Access

• Supply shortages have been reported due to increased demand, particularly for weight management use 4

• In Canada, coverage varies by provincial formularies and private insurance plans, with more consistent coverage for diabetes indications than for weight management 7