Ozempic and Bydureon are medications that help diabetics regulate their blood glucose sugar levels. While similar, these drugs also have notable differences. Read on to learn more about the differences between Ozempic and Bydureon.
Similarities and Differences Between Ozempic and Bydureon
Similarities
Both Ozempic and Bydureon increase or promote the production of insulin in the body, which reduces blood sugar. They emulate the action of natural peptides and bind to the receptors that promote insulin. Similarly, they both reduce appetite. Neither are insulin products.
Differences
There are some key differences between the two medications, which are as follows:
- Ozempic not only increases the production of insulin but also increases the growth of cells in the pancreas, which helps to secrete insulin.
- Ozempic is typically taken orally and Bydureon by injection. However, an injectable version of Ozempic was approved in the United States in 2017.
- Ozempic has a longer duration of action than Bydureon and need only be administered by injection once weekly.
- Bydureon is an analogue of a peptide found in the saliva of a rare lizard whilst Ozempic is an analogue of a substance found in the human body.
- Ozempic slows down digestion whereas Bydureon does not.
- The side effects of Bydureon are generally more severe than those of Ozempic and include indigestion, heartburn and possible retinopathy.
- Ozempic is a standalone medication whereas Bydureon tends to be used in combination with other medications such as metformin or sulfonylurea.
- Bydureon has additional applications such as possible treatment for Parkinson’s and is also used as weight-loss therapy.
- Bydureon was first discovered in 1992 and Ozempic in 2012. There have been a number of lawsuits against Bydureon but none against Ozempic.
Summary
Ozempic and Bydureon are very similar medications with key differences. One is an analogue of a human chemical that was discovered more recently and is perhaps less potent and the other was discovered nearly two decades ago, is an analogue of a chemical generated by a lizard and is a harsher medication.
Disclaimer: Please note that the contents of this community article are strictly for informational purposes and should not be considered as medical advice. This article, and other community articles, are not written or reviewed for medical validity by Canadian Insulin or its staff. All views and opinions expressed by the contributing authors are not endorsed by Canadian Insulin. Always consult a medical professional for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.
