Two of the significant anti-diabetes medications are Semaglutide and Metformin. These medications lower blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes attacks. Despite the similarities in their functions, they still have differences. These differences include alternative uses, dosage, cost, and side effects.

Uses

Semaglutide is the generic version of Ozempic and Rybelsus. Ozempic is available as a subcutaneous injection, while Rybelsus comes in tablet form. Semaglutide works in combination with diet and exercise to control blood sugar levels. Besides treating diabetes, Semaglutide also helps in weight loss.

Metformin is an oral medication available as a tablet and oral suspension. It also functions by lowering blood sugar levels. This medicine is the generic version of Fortamet and Glucophage. Metformin helps stimulate the body’s need for insulin and lessens the risk of health complications.

Dosage

As mentioned, Semaglutide has two branded versions – Ozempic and Rybelsus. These versions are administered differently

  • Take one tablet of 3 mg Rybelsus per day. The treatment will take 30 days with a maximum dosage of 14 mg per day.
  • Administer Ozempic subcutaneously once per week. The initial dose is 0.25 mg with a maximum of 1 mg per week.

Meanwhile, Metformin comes in a tablet and oral suspension form. The daily doses are as follows:

  • Take 500 mg of Metformin twice a day.
  • The maximum dosage is 2000 mg of Metformin daily.

Note: The tablet form of Metformin can be a little difficult for children to consume. Thankfully, an oral suspension is available for them to use.

Cost

The prices of these medicines differ a lot. The average price of Semaglutide is $948.84. This price covers the injection and tablet for Semaglutide. On the other hand, Metformin’s average price is $12.75. Since Metformin is a generic medication, its price is more affordable than other anti-diabetes medicines.

Side Effects

Semaglutide and Metformin have different side effects. These are the most common adverse reactions that people experience once they start treatment with these medicines.

Metformin:

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Gas
  • Weakness
  • Indigestion
  • Stomach pain
  • Mild headache

Semaglutide:

  • Low blood sugar
  • Upset stomach
  • Pain at the injection site
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Tiredness