The Three Main GLP-1 Medications in BC
If you are exploring GLP-1 medications for weight management or type 2 diabetes in British Columbia, you will likely encounter three brand names: Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. All three are injectable medications that work on the GLP-1 receptor pathway, but they differ in their active ingredients, approved indications, dosing, average weight loss outcomes, and cost.
Last Updated: June 2026
This article provides a factual comparison to help you have an informed conversation with your healthcare provider. It does not constitute medical advice.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Ozempic | Wegovy | Mounjaro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Semaglutide | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide |
| Mechanism | GLP-1 agonist | GLP-1 agonist | GLP-1 + GIP dual agonist |
| Health Canada approval | Type 2 diabetes | Weight management | Type 2 diabetes (weight use expanding) |
| Dosing frequency | Once weekly | Once weekly | Once weekly |
| Max dose | 2 mg | 2.4 mg | 15 mg |
| Avg. weight loss (trials) | ~5-10% | ~15% | ~20-22% |
| Approx. monthly cost (BC) | $200-$350 | $350-$500 | $300-$500 |
| PharmaCare coverage (BC) | Yes (diabetes, Special Authority) | No (weight management) | Limited (diabetes) |
Ozempic (Semaglutide 0.5-2 mg)
Ozempic is approved by Health Canada for the management of type 2 diabetes. It is a once-weekly subcutaneous injection that lowers blood sugar and, as a secondary effect, reduces appetite and promotes weight loss. In clinical trials, patients on Ozempic lost approximately 5 to 10 percent of their body weight on average.
Ozempic is the most widely covered of the three medications under BC PharmaCare, through the Special Authority process for patients with type 2 diabetes. It is also the most commonly prescribed GLP-1 in BC, meaning most physicians and pharmacists are familiar with it.
Some physicians prescribe Ozempic off-label for weight management in patients without type 2 diabetes, but PharmaCare does not cover it for this indication.
Wegovy (Semaglutide 2.4 mg)
Wegovy contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic (semaglutide) but at a higher dose (2.4 mg) specifically approved for chronic weight management. In the STEP clinical trials, patients on Wegovy lost an average of approximately 15 percent of their body weight over 68 weeks, significantly more than lower-dose semaglutide.
Wegovy is not covered by BC PharmaCare for weight management as of 2026. Patients pay the full cost of approximately $350 to $500 per month out of pocket, unless they have extended health benefits that cover it.
Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a newer medication that works on both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors, making it a dual agonist. This dual mechanism produces greater average weight loss than semaglutide alone. In the SURMOUNT clinical trials, patients on the highest dose of tirzepatide (15 mg) lost an average of approximately 20 to 22 percent of their body weight.
Mounjaro is approved by Health Canada for type 2 diabetes management. Its use for weight management in patients without diabetes is an evolving area. In BC, Mounjaro costs approximately $300 to $500 per month depending on dose. PharmaCare coverage is limited and primarily available for type 2 diabetes through Special Authority.
Which Should You Choose?
The right medication depends on your medical situation, which only your healthcare provider can assess. As a general framework: if you have type 2 diabetes and cost is a concern, Ozempic with PharmaCare Special Authority coverage may be the most accessible starting point. If you are focused on maximum weight loss and can afford the out-of-pocket cost, Mounjaro has the strongest average weight loss data. Wegovy sits between the two in terms of weight loss and cost.
You can get a GLP-1 prescription online in BC through telemedicine providers like Felix without waiting for a GP appointment.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any medication. For non-emergency health questions, call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which GLP-1 medication causes the most weight loss — Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro?
Based on clinical trial data, Mounjaro (tirzepatide) produces the greatest average weight loss at approximately 20-22% of body weight. Wegovy averages approximately 15%, and Ozempic approximately 5-10%. Individual results vary significantly.
Is Mounjaro available in BC?
Yes, Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is available in BC through pharmacies with a valid prescription. It is approved by Health Canada for type 2 diabetes management.
Does PharmaCare cover Wegovy or Mounjaro in BC?
As of 2026, PharmaCare does not cover Wegovy for weight management. Mounjaro has limited coverage through Special Authority for type 2 diabetes. Ozempic has the broadest PharmaCare coverage for type 2 diabetes.
Can I switch from Ozempic to Wegovy or Mounjaro?
Switching between GLP-1 medications is possible but requires medical supervision. Your physician will assess whether a switch is appropriate based on your response to the current medication, tolerability, and cost considerations.
What is the difference between Mounjaro and Ozempic?
Ozempic contains semaglutide and acts on the GLP-1 receptor only. Mounjaro contains tirzepatide and acts on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, producing greater average weight loss in clinical trials.