{
  "head": "<title>What Are the Differences Between Wegovy and Phentermine for Weight Loss?</title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Compare Wegovy and phentermine for weight loss: effectiveness, methods, costs, side effects, and insurance coverage to choose the best option for you.\"> \n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https://www.helloklarity.com/condition/prep?state=california\" />\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow\" />\n<meta name=\"googlebot\" content=\"index, follow\" />\n<meta name=\"bingbot\" content=\"index, follow\" />\n<script type=\"application/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https://schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"MedicalCondition\",\n  \"name\": \"Weight Loss Medications: Wegovy vs Phentermine\",\n  \"description\": \"Comparison of Wegovy (semaglutide) and phentermine for weight management, including effectiveness, mechanisms, costs, side effects, and coverage.\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"MedicalProcedure\",\n      \"name\": \"Wegovy (semaglutide)\",\n      \"description\": \"A weekly injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for long-term weight management, promoting satiety and blood sugar regulation.\"\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"MedicalProcedure\",\n      \"name\": \"Phentermine (Adipex-P)\",\n      \"description\": \"An oral stimulant approved for short-term weight loss, suppressing appetite via neurotransmitter stimulation.\"\n    }\n  ],\n  \"author\": {\n    \"@type\": \"Person\",\n    \"name\": \"Klarity Health\",\n    \"description\": \"Trusted provider platform offering expert weight loss treatments and consultations online.\"\n  },\n  \"@graph\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"How effective are Wegovy and phentermine for weight loss?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Wegovy typically results in about 15-20% body weight loss over 68 weeks, while phentermine leads to 3-5% weight loss in short-term use, with Wegovy generally more effective for sustained weight management.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"How do Wegovy and phentermine work for weight loss?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Wegovy activates GLP-1 receptors, increasing satiety and insulin regulation. Phentermine stimulates brain chemicals like norepinephrine to suppress appetite and boost energy.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What are the costs and insurance options for Wegovy and phentermine?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Wegovy costs around $1,430/month; phentermine is much cheaper, about $1.50-$1.70 per pill. Insurance may cover both, but coverage varies; phentermine often requires step therapy.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What are the side effects and contraindications of Wegovy and phentermine?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Wegovy may cause gastrointestinal issues and rare risks like pancreatitis; contraindicated in certain thyroid cancers. Phentermine may cause increased heart rate, hypertension, and dependence; contraindicated in cardiovascular disease.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Which medication is better for long-term weight management?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Wegovy is FDA-approved for long-term use and tends to be more effective and safer for sustained weight management. Phentermine is approved only for short-term use and has higher dependency risks.\"\n      }\n    }\n  ]\n}\n</script>",
  "body": "<section class=\"content\">\n<h1>What Are the Differences Between Wegovy and Phentermine for Weight Loss?</h1>\n<p>Choosing the right weight loss medication depends on your health goals, medical history, and preferences. Wegovy (semaglutide) and phentermine are two popular options with distinct mechanisms, effectiveness, costs, and side effect profiles.</p>\n<h2>How Effective Are Wegovy and Phentermine for Weight Loss?</h2>\n<p>Clinical studies suggest that Wegovy leads to an average weight loss of approximately 15% of initial body weight over 68 weeks, equating to about 34 pounds. In comparison, phentermine typically results in a 3-5% weight reduction over a few months, with about 15-19 pounds lost in six months. While no direct head-to-head trials exist, Wegovy generally offers more substantial and sustained weight loss, especially for long-term management.</p>\n<h2>How Do Wegovy and Phentermine Work for Weight Loss?</h2>\n<h3>Wegovy (semaglutide)</h3>\n<p>Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics a natural hormone increasing satiety and regulating blood sugar. It helps users feel full sooner and longer, reducing appetite when paired with diet and exercise. It’s administered via weekly injections.</p>\n<h3>Phentermine (Adipex-P)</h3>\n<p>Phentermine is a CNS stimulant that suppresses appetite by stimulating neurotransmitters like norepinephrine. Taken orally once daily, it boosts energy and reduces hunger, often used for short-term weight loss under medical supervision.</p>\n<h2>What Are the Costs and Insurance Options?</h2>\n<p>Wegovy costs approximately $1,430 per month, making it significantly more expensive. Phentermine is much cheaper, around $1.50-$1.70 per pill. Insurance coverage varies; some plans require step therapy or prior authorization. Phentermine’s availability is generally more reliable due to fewer shortages.</p>\n<h2>What Are the Side Effects and Contraindications?</h2>\n<h3>Wegovy Side Effects</h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea</li>\n<li>Serious risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and rare thyroid tumors</li>\n<li>Contraindicated in individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)</li>\n</ul>\n<h3>Phentermine Side Effects</h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Increased blood pressure and heart rate</li>\n<li>Insomnia, dry mouth, nervousness</li>\n<li>Potential for dependence and misuse; contraindicated in cardiovascular disease, pregnancy, and certain psychiatric conditions</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>Which Medication Is Better for Long-Term Weight Management?</h2>\n<p>Wegovy is FDA-approved for long-term use and has demonstrated significant, sustained weight loss with a relatively safer profile. Phentermine is approved only for short-term use due to tolerance development and dependency risks. Consulting a healthcare provider can help determine the best option for your needs.</p>\n<h2>Get Expert Support and Book an Appointment</h2>\n<p>Ready to start your weight loss journey? Book an appointment with a licensed provider on Klarity Health today. Same-day consultations are available, and medications can be prescribed online if appropriate. Our providers will help you choose the best treatment plan tailored to your goals.</p>\n<p>Remember, always discuss medication options with a healthcare professional to ensure safety and suitability. Klarity offers compassionate, expert care to guide you through your weight management journey in as little as 24 hours.</p>\n<div class=\"providers-list\">\n<h2>Providers Specializing in Weight Loss Treatments</h2>\n<table>\n<tr>\n<th>Name</th>\n<th>Credentials</th>\n<th>Experience</th>\n<th>Specialties & Conditions</th>\n<th>Service Type</th>\n<th>Location</th>\n<th>Rating</th>\n<th>Booking</th>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td><a href=\"https://www.helloklarity.com/provider/veronica-williams\">Veronica Williams</a></td>\n<td>MSN, APRN, FNP-BC</td>\n<td>20 years</td>\n<td>Overweight, Obesity, Skin conditions, Mental health, Chronic pain</td>\n<td>Video visit</td>\n<td>Temecula</td>\n<td>4.5 (22 reviews)</td>\n<td>Next available: Aug 30, 2025 11:30 AM</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td><a href=\"https://www.helloklarity.com/provider/barbara-abigide\">Barbara Abigide</a></td>\n<td>APR, BSN, FNP-BC, MSN</td>\n<td>21 years</td>\n<td>Fever, Cold, Asthma, Weight management, Hypertension, Diabetes, Mental health</td>\n<td>Video visit</td>\n<td>Brooklyn</td>\n<td>4.79 (13 reviews)</td>\n<td>Next available: Aug 01, 2025 6:00 AM</td>\n</tr>\n</table>\n</div>\n<p>Both providers support online booking, accept cash, and offer initial consultations for new patients. You can schedule your appointment today and begin your weight loss or health improvement plan with trusted experts.</p>\n<div class=\"disclaimer\">\n<p><strong>Medical Disclaimer:</strong> This information is for educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication or treatment plan.</p>\n</div>\n</section>"
}