Ozempic alternatives for weight loss

You may have heard that a side effect of Ozempic is that it can lead to weight loss. However, Ozempic can only be prescribed for people with type 2 diabetes in the UK, and is not licensed as a weight loss treatment.

If you wish to lose weight, there are alternatives to Ozempic that are suitable for this purpose.

In this article, you can learn about other ways of losing weight. We’ll also discuss factors that can influence your choice of treatment to help you decide which option best aligns with your health goals.

Medically reviewed by

Dr Kathryn Basford

Last reviewed: 03 Feb 2026

What's on this page?

1. Why is Ozempic not prescribed for weight loss?
2. Wegovy as an Ozempic alternative
3. Mounjaro as an Ozempic alternative
4. Other prescription weight loss medications
5. Natural alternatives to Ozempic
6. Which Ozempic alternative is right for you?
7. Do you need help with your weight loss goals?
8. Frequently asked questions

Why is Ozempic not prescribed for weight loss?

Although Ozempic can cause weight loss, it is only licensed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, not weight management. Some doctors or pharmacies may prescribe it “off-label” for weight loss, but this goes against current government guidance (and has previously led to shortages - meaning people who need it for type 2 diabetes cannot get what they need).

However, there are alternative medicines that are licensed specifically for the treatment of obesity and overweight.

Wegovy as an Ozempic alternative

Wegovy, like Ozempic, contains semaglutide as the active ingredient. But unlike Ozempic, it is specifically approved for weight loss. This medication has been shown to have significant weight loss benefits, especially when combined with lifestyle changes.

How it works

Wegovy works by mimicking a natural gut hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). This helps you feel fuller, eat less, and reduce cravings.

Effectiveness for weight loss

Clinical studies have demonstrated that semaglutide can support substantial weight loss. In one trial, participants using semaglutide 2.4mg lost an average of 15% of their body weight after 68 weeks. This was significantly more than those on a placebo when combined with lifestyle changes.

Side effects

Common side effects of Wegovy include nausea, diarrhoea and stomach pain, although these symptoms often decrease as the body adjusts to the medication. Find out more about Wegovy.

Who can get Wegovy?

Wegovy can be prescribed to people who have:

✓ a BMI of 30 or higher

✓ a BMI of 27 or higher with a weight-related medical condition, such as high blood pressure

Mounjaro as an Ozempic alternative

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is another prescription medication that has been shown to be effective for weight loss. Mounjaro targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. These are two hormones involved in appetite and blood sugar control. By acting on both, Mounjaro can reduce hunger and improve how your body digests food.

How it works

Mounjaro not only suppresses appetite but also helps regulate metabolism, which can result in more significant weight loss than medications that only target the GLP-1 receptor.

Effectiveness for weight loss

Research with Mounjaro shows that patients lose an average of 16.5% of their body weight after one year of treatment, compared to 14.1% for semaglutide (Wegovy). This makes Mounjaro a very promising alternative for those seeking significant weight loss results.

Side effects

Mounjaro shares common side effects with other GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal discomfort.

BMI more than 30

Obese

Eligible for weight loss treatment

BMI between 27 and 30

Overweight

Eligible if a weight-related health condition is present

Who can get Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is approved for weight loss in adults who have:

✓ a BMI (body mass index) of 30 kg/m² or higher (obesity)

✓ a BMI between 27 and 30 kg/m² (overweight) and a weight-related health condition, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, prediabetes, or heart problems

In practice, access can differ between NHS services and private clinics, so your doctor will confirm whether it is appropriate for you.

If greater weight loss is your main priority, Mounjaro may offer an advantage in some cases, while Wegovy may be preferred if you and your doctor want a semaglutide-based treatment with a longer track record in weight management. The right choice depends on your medical history, treatment goals and how you respond to each medication.

For more information, explore our guides to How does Wegovy work? and How does Mounjaro work?

Other prescription weight loss medications

If you are looking for alternatives to Ozempic, there are several other prescription medications and over-the-counter options that may help with weight loss. These alternatives work in different ways to support weight management, making it easier to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

Nevolat: a daily injection alternative

Nevolat is a weight loss injection that should be self-administered daily. It contains liraglutide, a GLP-1 medicine that helps reduce appetite and slows stomach emptying, so you feel fuller with smaller meals.

How it works

Liraglutide mimics the natural GLP-1 hormone in your body, which helps control hunger and slows down stomach emptying. This helps you feel fuller for longer, reducing the desire to overeat. This makes it easier to stick to a reduced-calorie diet without feeling overly hungry.

Effectiveness

Liraglutide can help people lose a significant amount of weight when used alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Nevolat is prescription-only, so you will need a medical assessment to check if it is safe and suitable for you. Find out more about Nevolat.

Mysimba: a tablet alternative

Mysimba is another prescription medication that comes in tablet form. It contains naltrexone hydrochloride and bupropion hydrochloride. These act on areas of your brain that control appetite and reward, which can help reduce cravings and snacking.

How it works

Mysimba works by affecting the areas of your brain responsible for food intake and hunger. By reducing cravings, it allows you to eat less without feeling hungry, which can support healthier eating habits and effective weight loss.

Effectiveness

Mysimba can be effective when combined with a balanced diet and exercise plan. It provides appetite control that helps with weight loss, making it a useful option for those who struggle with food cravings. Find out more information about Mysimba.

Alli (orlistat): Over-the-counter weight loss tablets

Alli (orlistat) is an over-the-counter weight loss medication that works differently from prescription options. It helps reduce the amount of fat your body absorbs from the food you eat.

How it works

Alli blocks the absorption of fat in your digestive system, preventing about 25% of the fat you eat from being absorbed. This leads to fewer calories being taken in from fat, making it easier to manage weight. Alli is taken with meals that contain fat, and any fat that is not absorbed passes through the body undigested, helping to reduce overall calorie intake.

Effectiveness

Orlistat (Alli) produces modest but meaningful weight loss when used alongside a reduced‑calorie diet and exercise. For example, in the two patients with a BMI of 28kg/m2 or more, patients taking Alli 60 mg capsules had lost an average of 4.8kg after a year, compared with 2.3 kg for those taking placebo.

Alli is available over-the-counter without a prescription, but it is recommended that you use it alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise for the best results. Find out more information on Alli.

➤ It’s worth noting that prescription orlistat (including branded versions such as Xenical) contains the same active ingredient at a higher dose (120mg) and is prescribed to people who meet stricter clinical criteria, while Alli provides a lower-dose (60mg) over-the-counter option.

Natural alternatives to Ozempic

Prescription medications are not suitable for everyone. And some people may prefer natural methods for weight management. There are several natural alternatives that can help support weight loss.

Apple cider vinegar

A small study suggests that apple cider vinegar may modestly reduce appetite or support blood sugar control, but evidence for meaningful weight loss is limited. It should always be diluted, as it can damage tooth enamel and irritate the stomach if taken in large amounts.

Green tea extract

Green tea, particularly rich in catechins like EGCG, has been shown to have a small but positive effect on weight loss. While its effects are milder than prescription treatments, it can still aid in gradual weight loss.

Fibre-rich foods

Eating more whole grains, legumes, and vegetables can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing your overall calorie intake and supporting gradual weight loss.

➤ It's important to note that these natural alternatives are not as potent as prescription medications like Mounjaro or Wegovy and may provide only mild support for weight loss. These natural options are not direct substitutes for medicines such as Wegovy or Mounjaro and tend to have much milder effects, if any. Always discuss supplements with a doctor, especially if you take other medication.

Which Ozempic alternative is right for you?

Choosing the right treatment for your weight loss journey depends on several factors, including.

health conditions – if you have diabetes or other medical conditions, medications like Mounjaro or Nevolat may be more suitable
weight loss goals – if rapid weight loss is a priority, Mounjaro may be the most effective option, while Wegovy offers solid results with fewer potential side effects
treatment preference – if you prefer injections, Wegovy or Mounjaro are available in this form, while Mysimba or orlistat come as tablets you swallow

Always consult with a doctor to ensure the best choice.

For more guidance on weight loss treatments, explore our consultation services at ZAVA.

Do you need help with your weight loss goals?

If you're looking to take the next step in your weight loss journey, explore ZAVA's range of weight loss treatments. We offer a variety of prescription and over-the-counter options, including effective medications like Wegovy, Mounjaro, Nevolat, and Mysimba, as well as helpful lifestyle tools. Our online consultation service makes it easy for you to get professional advice tailored to your needs.

Whether you're interested in medications that help reduce appetite, control cravings, or reduce fat absorption, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Learn more about our options.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best alternatives to Ozempic for weight loss in the UK?

There is not a single best alternative to Ozempic, but options include Wegovy, Mounjaro, Nevolat, Mysimba and natural options like green tea extract and apple cider vinegar. Wegovy and Mounjaro are the closest in terms of effectiveness, while Nevolat provides a similar appetite-suppressing effect.

What other GLP-1 medications are available if you cannot get Ozempic?

GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Nevolat are other options that may be suitable if Ozempic is unavailable.

How do Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Nevolat compare to Ozempic?

All four medications work similarly by suppressing appetite and promoting weight loss. Mounjaro and Wegovy are the closest alternatives, with Mounjaro often showing higher effectiveness.

Are there non-injection alternatives to Ozempic for weight loss?

Yes. Alli (orlistat) and Mysimba are oral medications that can support weight loss and do not require injections.

Can you get Ozempic alternatives on the NHS or only privately?

In the UK, medicines like Wegovy or liraglutide may be available through specialist NHS weight-management services for people who meet certain criteria. Availability can vary by area. Mounjaro is more often accessed privately for weight loss at the moment.

Are there over-the-counter or herbal alternatives to Ozempic?

Natural alternatives like apple cider vinegar, green tea extract and Garcinia Cambogia are available over the counter, but they are less effective than prescription medications.

What lifestyle changes can be used as alternatives to Ozempic?

Incorporating regular exercise, eating a balanced diet rich in fibre, and focusing on portion control can support weight loss alongside natural remedies and medications.

What mimics Ozempic naturally?

Natural alternatives that may help suppress appetite and support weight loss include apple cider vinegar, green tea extract and fibre-rich foods. However, they are not as effective as Ozempic or other prescription treatments.

Medically reviewed by

Dr Kathryn Basford

Dr Kathryn Basford is a GP based in London. She graduated from the University of Manchester and completed her GP training through Whipps Cross Hospital in London. Outside of work she enjoys baking and keeping active, running marathons, swimming, and triathlons.

Last reviewed: 03 Feb 2026