The term GLP-1 refers to a naturally occurring gut hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1. In medicine, "GLP-1 drugs" or "GLP-1 agonists" are a class of drugs designed to mimic this hormone's action in the body, which helps regulate blood sugar, slows digestion, and affects appetite. Since GLP-1 is a class, or category, of medications, it doesn't have a single generic name in the way that, for example, atorvastatin is the generic name for Lipitor. Instead, each drug within this class has its own unique generic name.
Understanding the Difference: Generic vs. Brand
In the pharmaceutical world, a generic drug is a copy of a brand-name drug with the same active ingredient, strength, and dosage form, and is sold at a lower price after the original patent expires. The original drug manufacturer develops and markets the brand-name product (e.g., Ozempic). When the patent protection ends, other companies can produce generic versions of the active ingredient (e.g., semaglutide). The FDA rigorously checks generic drugs to ensure they are bioequivalent to their brand-name counterparts, meaning they work in the same way and provide the same clinical benefit.
Key Generic Names for GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
Several different GLP-1 receptor agonists are approved for use. Their generic names are distinct from one another, just as their formulations and specific indications can vary. Below is a breakdown of the most common GLP-1 drugs and their respective generic names.
Semaglutide
- Brand Names: Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus.
- Indications: Semaglutide is the generic name for these popular medications. Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is approved for chronic weight management. Rybelsus is an oral tablet formulation of semaglutide for type 2 diabetes. As of late 2025, there is no FDA-approved generic version of semaglutide available.
Tirzepatide
- Brand Names: Mounjaro, Zepbound.
- Indications: Tirzepatide is a dual-action agonist, meaning it mimics not only GLP-1 but also GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). Mounjaro is indicated for type 2 diabetes, while Zepbound is approved for chronic weight management. Tirzepatide currently has no FDA-approved generic versions.
Liraglutide
- Brand Names: Victoza, Saxenda.
- Indications: Victoza is approved for type 2 diabetes, and Saxenda is a higher-dose version approved for weight loss. A generic version of Victoza (liraglutide) for type 2 diabetes became available in the U.S. in late 2024, making it more affordable for some patients.
Dulaglutide
- Brand Name: Trulicity.
- Indication: Trulicity (dulaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable approved for type 2 diabetes and to reduce cardiovascular events in certain adults. There is no generic version available at this time.
Exenatide
- Brand Names: Byetta, Bydureon.
- Indication: Exenatide is one of the older GLP-1 agonists approved for type 2 diabetes. Byetta is a twice-daily injection, while Bydureon is an extended-release, once-weekly version. A generic version of exenatide was approved in late 2024.
The Rise of Compounded GLP-1 Drugs
Due to high demand and cost, compounded versions of GLP-1 drugs have become available. However, these are not FDA-approved, are not required to meet the same safety standards as commercial drugs, and the FDA has issued warnings about them. Using compounded drugs without a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider is strongly discouraged.
Comparing Popular GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
Generic Name | Brand Name(s) | FDA-Approved For | Administration | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Semaglutide | Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus | Type 2 diabetes (Ozempic, Rybelsus); Chronic weight management (Wegovy) | Weekly Injection (Ozempic, Wegovy); Daily Oral Tablet (Rybelsus) | Highly effective; no generic currently available for weight loss or diabetes. |
Tirzepatide | Mounjaro, Zepbound | Type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro); Chronic weight management (Zepbound) | Weekly Injection | Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist; no generic available. |
Liraglutide | Victoza, Saxenda | Type 2 diabetes (Victoza); Chronic weight management (Saxenda) | Daily Injection | A generic version of Victoza was approved in late 2024, providing a lower-cost option for diabetes. |
Dulaglutide | Trulicity | Type 2 diabetes | Weekly Injection | No generic version currently available. |
Exenatide | Byetta, Bydureon BCise | Type 2 diabetes | Twice-daily or weekly injection | A generic version of exenatide was approved in late 2024. |
Conclusion
In summary, asking "What is the generic name for GLP-1?" is fundamentally a misconception, as GLP-1 is a drug class, not a singular active ingredient. The correct approach is to identify the generic name for a specific GLP-1 receptor agonist, such as semaglutide, tirzepatide, liraglutide, or dulaglutide. Understanding the specific generic and brand name for each medication is crucial for healthcare providers and patients alike. This knowledge is important for proper prescribing, distinguishing between FDA-approved and unapproved compounded versions, and navigating the nuances of different formulations and costs. With the patent expiration of some older GLP-1 agonists, more affordable generic options are slowly entering the market, but the newest and most popular agents like semaglutide and tirzepatide remain available exclusively under their brand names for now. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is always best to consult reliable sources like the FDA or speak directly with a licensed healthcare provider.