The Complete List of FDA-Approved GLP-1 Medications in 2026
Modern Weight Science Editorial Team
Editorial Team
There are more FDA-approved GLP-1 medications than most people realise — and they differ significantly in mechanism, dosing, approved uses, and availability. Here is the full picture.
GLP-1 receptor agonists have been in clinical use since the mid-2000s, and the class has grown considerably beyond the two medications most people discuss. Here is a complete overview of FDA-approved GLP-1 medications, what they are approved for, and how they differ.
Semaglutide (Novo Nordisk)
Ozempic — weekly injection, type 2 diabetes
Approved in 2017. Doses: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg weekly. Also approved for cardiovascular risk reduction in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.
Wegovy — weekly injection, weight management
Approved in 2021. Doses: 0.25 mg → 2.4 mg weekly (5-step titration). Approved for adults (BMI ≥30 or ≥27 with a weight-related condition) and adolescents aged 12+ with obesity. Also carries an indication for reducing cardiovascular events in adults with obesity/overweight and cardiovascular disease.
Rybelsus — daily oral tablet, type 2 diabetes
Approved in 2019. First oral GLP-1 receptor agonist. Doses: 3 mg, 7 mg, 14 mg daily. Must be taken on an empty stomach with a small amount of water and a 30-minute wait before eating.
Tirzepatide (Eli Lilly)
Mounjaro — weekly injection, type 2 diabetes
Approved in 2022. A dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist. Doses: 2.5 mg through 15 mg weekly. Produced the largest average HbA1c reductions seen in any diabetes drug class to that point.
Zepbound — weekly injection, weight management
Approved in 2023. Same molecule as Mounjaro at the same doses. Approved for adults with BMI ≥30 or ≥27 with a weight-related condition. SURMOUNT trial data showed average weight loss of 20–22% at the highest dose.
Liraglutide (Novo Nordisk)
Victoza — daily injection, type 2 diabetes
Approved in 2010. One of the earliest GLP-1 drugs to reach mainstream use. Daily injection at 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, or 1.8 mg. Also approved to reduce cardiovascular risk in adults with type 2 diabetes and high cardiovascular risk.
Saxenda — daily injection, weight management
Approved in 2014. The first GLP-1 approved specifically for weight management. Daily injection titrated to 3 mg. Less commonly used now that weekly options exist, but still prescribed. Approved for adults and adolescents aged 12+.
Dulaglutide (Eli Lilly)
Trulicity — weekly injection, type 2 diabetes
Approved in 2014. Doses: 0.75 mg, 1.5 mg, 3 mg, 4.5 mg weekly. Has cardiovascular outcomes data. An older weekly option that has been largely superseded in efficacy by semaglutide and tirzepatide, but remains in use particularly where cost or familiarity guides prescribing.
Exenatide (AstraZeneca / generic)
Byetta — twice-daily injection, type 2 diabetes
Approved in 2005 — the first GLP-1 receptor agonist approved in the US. Twice-daily injection. Rarely prescribed now given the availability of weekly options.
Bydureon BCise — weekly injection, type 2 diabetes
Extended-release exenatide, once weekly. Less commonly used today.
What is coming
Several next-generation GLP-1 and multi-agonist medications are in late-stage trials, including oral tirzepatide, once-monthly injectables, and triple agonists (GLP-1/GIP/glucagon). The field is evolving rapidly — regulatory approvals and availability may shift significantly through 2025–2027.
The practical hierarchy
For most new patients in 2026, the decision comes down to tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) or semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy), based on coverage, cost, and prescriber judgment. The older agents (liraglutide, dulaglutide, exenatide) remain options when cost, formulary placement, or tolerability make them preferable — but the trials consistently show greater efficacy with the newer molecules.
FDA approvals, available doses, and clinical guidelines change over time. This reflects publicly available information as of May 2026. Always confirm current approvals and indications with your prescriber or the FDA's official drug database.
About the author
Modern Weight Science Editorial Team
Editorial Team
Evidence-based research and educational content focused on metabolism, appetite regulation, and sustainable weight management. Our team synthesizes peer-reviewed research into clear, accessible guidance for informed health decisions.
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Last updated May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is GLP-1 and how does it work?
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone released by intestinal L-cells after eating. It stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and activates hypothalamic satiety pathways to reduce appetite. GLP-1 receptor agonist medications mimic these effects with a much longer duration — typically one week per injection.
How do GLP-1 medications cause weight loss?
GLP-1 receptor agonists reduce appetite through two pathways: peripheral (slowing gastric emptying extends fullness) and central (activating hypothalamic and brainstem receptors reduces hunger signaling and 'food noise'). The result is a sustained reduction in calorie intake without requiring active willpower against elevated hunger hormones.
What is the difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide?
Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) activates GLP-1 receptors only. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) is a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist. Clinical trials show tirzepatide produces higher average weight loss (~20-22% in SURMOUNT-1 vs. ~15% for semaglutide in STEP 1), though individual response varies considerably depending on biology, dose, and adherence.
Are GLP-1 medications safe to use long-term?
The longest available randomized trial data (STEP 5 for semaglutide) shows maintained efficacy and tolerability over two years. Side effects are primarily gastrointestinal and concentrated during dose escalation. As with any prescription medication, long-term risks and benefits must be evaluated with a licensed clinician who knows your individual medical history.
Not medical advice. This guide is for general education only. GLP-1 medications, dosing, and treatment suitability are decisions for you and a licensed clinician who knows your full medical history.
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