GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss in Canada: Costs, Access, and Safety

Discover how GLP-1 medications like Wegovy and Saxenda are used for weight loss in Canada. Learn about eligibility, costs, coverage, benefits, risks, and alternatives to make an informed health decision.

Introduction

Across Canada, more people are turning to prescription weight-loss medications as obesity rates continue to climb. Among the most talked-about options are GLP-1 receptor agonists, a class of drugs originally designed for type 2 diabetes but now making headlines for their role in weight management.

If you’ve heard of names like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Saxenda, you’ve already come across GLP-1 drugs. These medications are available in Canada with a prescription and are seen as a new tool for people who struggle with weight loss despite diet and exercise.

But what do they actually do, how safe are they, and what should you know before considering them? This guide walks you through the science, approvals in Canada, costs, benefits, risks, and the alternatives you may want to weigh alongside them.

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a natural hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. Medications that mimic GLP-1 are known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. They bind to receptors in the body, triggering effects that make people feel fuller sooner, slow down digestion, and improve insulin response.

In practical terms, that means these drugs can reduce hunger, help control portions, and in many cases, lead to significant weight loss. Research shows that some patients lose 15% or more of their body weight over a year with the right dose and monitoring.

Examples of GLP-1 Drugs in Canada

A few GLP-1 medications are available in Canada today, but not all are approved specifically for weight loss.

Health Canada has formally approved Wegovy and Saxenda for obesity treatment, while drugs like Ozempic are only authorized for diabetes but are sometimes prescribed off-label to help with weight reduction. You can find the full list of medications through Obesity Canada’s clinical guidelines.

How GLP-1 Medications Work for Weight Loss

The mechanism is simple but powerful. By activating GLP-1 receptors, these drugs:

• Increase satiety (feeling full faster)
• Reduce hunger signals in the brain
• Slow down gastric emptying, so food stays longer in the stomach
• Improve blood sugar regulation, lowering spikes and crashes

For people living with obesity, these effects go beyond numbers on a scale. Weight loss of even 5–10% can reduce the risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea, according to Health Canada’s public health data.

Unlike fad diets or supplements, GLP-1 medications are evidence-based and prescribed under medical supervision. But they are not a quick fix, and results depend on consistent use alongside lifestyle adjustments.

Approved GLP-1 Drugs for Weight Loss in Canada

Not every GLP-1 medication on the market is approved for weight loss. In Canada, Health Canada has formally authorized only two GLP-1 drugs for obesity treatment: Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) and Saxenda (liraglutide 3.0 mg). Both require a prescription and medical oversight.

Wegovy (Semaglutide 2.4 mg)

• Indication: Approved for adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or sleep apnea.
• How it works: Weekly injection that mimics GLP-1 hormones at a higher dose than Ozempic.
• Effectiveness: In clinical trials, patients lost an average of 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks when combined with lifestyle changes.
• Additional approval: In late 2024, Health Canada also cleared Wegovy to reduce the risk of non-fatal heart attack in adults with cardiovascular disease and obesity .

Saxenda (Liraglutide 3.0 mg)

• Indication: Daily injection approved for adults with obesity or overweight with at least one comorbidity.
• Effectiveness: Studies show average weight loss of about 8% of body weight after one year.
• Differences from Wegovy: Requires daily administration and generally leads to more modest results compared to semaglutide.

Who Is Eligible?

According to Obesity Canada’s guidelines, eligibility is not based on appearance or preference alone. Doctors typically consider GLP-1 medications when:

• Body mass index (BMI) is 30 or higher
• BMI is 27 or higher with weight-related health problems
• Previous attempts at weight management with diet and exercise have not been successful
• The patient is motivated to continue lifestyle changes alongside medication

Cost, Access, and Reimbursement

For many Canadians, the biggest question is not “Do GLP-1 drugs work?” but “Can I afford them?” Prices remain high, and coverage varies widely by province and insurance plan.

Out-of-Pocket Costs

• Wegovy: Around $300–$400 per month depending on pharmacy and dosage.
• Saxenda: Typically $250–$350 per month.
• Ozempic (off-label for weight loss): About $200–$300 per month.

These are brand-name prices, as no generic versions are yet available. Patent protection for semaglutide is set to expire in 2026, which could open the door for cheaper options in the years ahead .

Public and Private Coverage

• Public drug plans: Most provincial programs cover GLP-1 drugs only for type 2 diabetes, not for weight loss. For example, Ozempic is reimbursed in many provinces for diabetes patients, but if prescribed off-label for weight loss, coverage is often denied.
• Private insurance: Some employer or personal plans cover Saxenda or Wegovy for obesity treatment, but requirements differ. Patients often need documentation of BMI and related health conditions to qualify.
• Telehealth and clinics: Growing numbers of weight-loss clinics and online platforms are helping Canadians access these medications, though patients still need a prescription from a licensed provider.

Access Challenges

High costs and inconsistent coverage mean many Canadians either pay out of pocket or cannot access GLP-1 drugs at all. Supply shortages have also been reported in some provinces due to global demand. For many patients, these barriers make lifestyle and alternative treatments a more realistic first step.

Benefits vs Risks of GLP-1 Medications

Like any prescription treatment, GLP-1 drugs offer clear benefits but also carry risks. Understanding both sides is critical before deciding if they are right for you.

Benefits of GLP-1 Medications

• Significant weight loss: Many patients see a 10–15% reduction in body weight within a year of consistent use.
• Improved metabolic health: GLP-1 drugs help regulate blood sugar, making them especially useful for people with type 2 diabetes.
• Cardiovascular protection: New evidence shows Wegovy can reduce the risk of non-fatal heart attack in adults with obesity and established cardiovascular disease (Health Canada announcement).
• Better quality of life: Beyond numbers on the scale, patients often report increased energy, improved mobility, and less joint pain.

Common Side Effects

Most side effects occur early in treatment and often improve over time. These include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Abdominal pain

These effects are usually linked to how the medication slows digestion and affects appetite. Doctors often start patients on a low dose and gradually increase it to minimize discomfort.

Serious Risks and Warnings

Less common but important risks include:

• Pancreatitis: Sudden severe abdominal pain can signal inflammation of the pancreas.
• Gallbladder disease: Rapid weight loss can increase risk of gallstones.
• Kidney issues: Dehydration from persistent vomiting may worsen kidney function.
• Thyroid tumors: Animal studies raised concerns about thyroid C-cell tumors. While not proven in humans, caution is advised for anyone with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma.

Detailed safety information is available through Health Canada’s drug database, which lists prescribing guidelines and warnings for every approved medication.

Who Should Consider GLP-1 Drugs?

Doctors in Canada typically recommend GLP-1 medications only when lifestyle measures alone are not enough. Candidates usually include:

• Adults with BMI ≥30 (obesity)
• Adults with BMI ≥27 and at least one weight-related condition (such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea)
• People who have tried diet and physical activity programs but have not seen meaningful or sustainable results
• Patients motivated to combine medication with ongoing lifestyle adjustments

These criteria help ensure the medication is used where it offers the most benefit.

Who Should Not Take GLP-1 Medications

Certain groups should avoid GLP-1 treatments due to safety concerns:

• People with a history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
• Those with a prior episode of severe pancreatitis
• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, as safety has not been established
• Children and adolescents, unless under specific medical supervision (pediatric approvals are limited in Canada)

The Role of the Physician

GLP-1 medications are not available over the counter. They require a prescription, proper screening, and ongoing monitoring. A physician will check medical history, order lab tests if needed, and adjust the dose based on response and tolerance.

Patients should be prepared for regular follow-ups to assess progress, side effects, and whether continued use is appropriate.

Alternatives and Complementary Strategies

GLP-1 medications are not the only path to weight loss. In fact, doctors stress that medication works best when combined with lifestyle changes. For some, alternatives may be more practical or accessible.

Lifestyle-Based Approaches

• Nutrition: Balanced eating plans with reduced processed foods and higher intake of vegetables, lean proteins, and fibre remain the foundation of healthy weight management.
• Physical activity: Regular movement, including both aerobic exercise and strength training, helps sustain results and improve overall health.
• Behavioural support: Counselling, group programs, or structured coaching can help people overcome emotional or psychological barriers to weight loss.

Other Prescription Medications

Health Canada has approved several medications beyond GLP-1s for weight management, including Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion) and Xenical (orlistat). Each works differently, comes with its own side effect profile, and may be more affordable depending on insurance coverage. A full overview is available through Health Canada’s obesity treatment guidance.

Bariatric Surgery

For people with severe obesity or those who have not had success with medications, bariatric surgery remains an option. Procedures such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy can lead to long-term weight reduction but involve higher upfront risks and the need for lifelong dietary changes.

Complementary Approaches

While alternative remedies and supplements are often marketed for weight loss, few are backed by strong evidence. Canadians are advised to be cautious of unregulated products, especially those purchased online without medical oversight.

Regulatory, Ethical, and Oversight Issues

The rapid rise of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss has created debate about how they should be prescribed, who should access them, and how costs should be managed.

Off-Label Prescribing

Ozempic is officially approved in Canada for type 2 diabetes, yet it is often prescribed off-label for weight loss. Off-label prescribing is legal when a physician deems it appropriate, but it raises questions about safety monitoring and insurance coverage. Patients using Ozempic for weight loss may have to pay out of pocket because most public drug plans only cover its diabetes indication.

Cost Inequities

Access to GLP-1 medications is not equal across Canada. People with robust private insurance may receive coverage for obesity treatment, while others must cover the full expense themselves. This creates a gap between those who can afford long-term therapy and those who cannot. Analysts suggest that once generic semaglutide becomes available after 2026, pricing pressures may ease, but until then the high monthly costs remain a barrier .

Ethical Concerns

• Medical necessity vs cosmetic use: While intended for people with obesity or significant health risks, demand is also coming from individuals seeking rapid weight loss for aesthetic reasons. This raises questions about fairness in distribution, especially during supply shortages.
• Supply shortages: Increased demand worldwide has occasionally led to limited availability in Canada, making it harder for patients with diabetes to access medication they need for blood sugar control.
• Oversight and monitoring: Physicians and health systems must balance innovation with long-term safety data, ensuring that prescriptions are made responsibly and with adequate follow-up.

Public Health Perspective

Experts highlight that GLP-1 drugs are a powerful tool but not a replacement for broader public health strategies. Addressing obesity in Canada requires tackling food environments, physical activity barriers, and socioeconomic inequalities, not just relying on medication.

Recent Developments and Future Outlook

The field of GLP-1 medications is moving quickly, and Canadians can expect more changes over the next few years.

New Approvals

Health Canada approved Wegovy not only for weight loss but also to reduce the risk of non-fatal heart attacks in adults with obesity and cardiovascular disease. This dual indication highlights how GLP-1 medications are being recognized for benefits beyond weight control .

Emerging Therapies

Pharmaceutical companies are developing next-generation treatments that combine GLP-1 activity with other hormone pathways, such as GIP or glucagon agonists. Early studies suggest these “dual agonists” may deliver even greater weight loss while improving blood sugar control. Canada is expected to review these drugs in the coming years, once international regulatory approvals are in place.

Generic Availability

Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, is under patent protection until 2026. Once generic versions are launched, prices may fall significantly, opening access to more Canadians. Until then, affordability remains a challenge for many households .

Long-Term Research

Ongoing studies are tracking whether GLP-1 drugs can sustain weight loss over multiple years and whether patients need to remain on them for life. Other trials are looking at mental health outcomes, since some patients report improvements in mood and quality of life once weight decreases.

Conclusion

GLP-1 medications such as Wegovy, Saxenda, and Ozempic are changing how Canadians approach weight loss. They offer powerful results for people who meet medical criteria, especially when combined with lifestyle changes. Beyond helping with weight, these drugs also support better blood sugar control and may lower cardiovascular risk.

But they are not without drawbacks. High costs, variable insurance coverage, and potential side effects mean they are not the right choice for everyone. Doctors also emphasize that long-term weight management requires more than a prescription—it calls for sustainable habits, support, and regular follow-up care.

As new therapies emerge and generic versions enter the market, access and affordability may improve. For now, Canadians considering GLP-1 medications should carefully weigh the benefits and risks, and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider. The goal is not just weight reduction, but improved health and quality of life.

FAQ