What you’ll learn:
- Ozempic® and Victoza® are GLP-1 receptor agonists originally designed to treat type 2 diabetes that are now also prescribed off-label for weight loss.
- Ozempic® is taken as a once-weekly injection, while Victoza® requires a daily injection.
- Studies suggest that Ozempic® may lead to more significant weight loss compared to Victoza®.
If you’ve been considering a medication to help you lose weight, you’ve probably heard about Ozempic®. Even though it’s only FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes, Ozempic® has a strong reputation for helping people lose weight. This is because its active ingredient, semaglutide, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. This means it mimics the GLP-1 hormone to reduce appetite, slow digestion, and regulate blood sugar.
But, Ozempic® isn’t the only GLP-1 medication that has these traits. Victoza®, with the active ingredient liraglutide, is one of the earliest GLP-1 medications used to treat diabetes that can also lead to moderate weight loss. Both also have counterpart medications that are FDA-approved for weight loss with the same active ingredients: Wegovy® for Ozempic® and Saxenda® for Victoza®.
While Ozempic® and other GLP-1 medications like Wegovy® and Zepbound® (tirzepatide) are used more frequently for weight loss than Victoza® and Saxenda®, some people still turn to them.
Which should you choose? When choosing a medication for weight loss, while how much weight you can lose is important, other factors like dosing, insurance coverage, pricing, and availability come into play as well.
Let’s take a closer look at how Ozempic® and Victoza® compare to see if they can help you reach your goals, or if an alternative might be better for you.
Ozempic® vs Victoza®: How do they work?
Since Ozempic® (semaglutide) and Victoza® (liraglutide) are both GLP-1 receptor agonists, they work in similar ways to help regulate blood sugar levels and support weight loss. As mentioned, they both mimic the GLP-1 hormone, which lowers appetite and slows digestion. The biggest difference is how long they last in your body once injected. Let’s look at the difference:
- Semaglutide binds more effectively to GLP-1 receptors, leading to stronger appetite suppression and longer-lasting metabolic benefits. Since it lasts longer, you’ll only need to take Ozempic® once a week.
- Liraglutide has a shorter duration of action, so you’ll need to inject yourself daily with this medication.
Ozempic® vs. Victoza®: What are the similarities?
Ozempic® and Victoza® are GLP-1 receptor agonists that are approved to treat type 2 diabetes, so it’s not surprising that they have a lot in common! Here are other things the two share:
They are manufacturer by the same company
Ozempic® and Victoza® are both made by Novo Nordisk, but they hit the market at different times. Victoza® came first, earning FDA approval in 2010. Ozempic® was approved later, in 2017. Both medications were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, and since then, Novo Nordisk has introduced versions specifically for weight loss.
They have counterparts that are FDA-approved for weight loss: Wegovy® and Saxenda®
Both Ozempic® and Victoza® have weight-loss-specific counterparts that are made with the same active ingredient.
- Wegovy® was approved for weight management in 2021. It can be prescribed at a higher maximum dose than Ozempic® for people who need it to continue losing weight.
- Saxenda® was approved for weight loss in December 2014. It can be prescribed at a higher maximum dose than Victoza®.
They have blood sugar benefits for people with type 2 diabetes
Both medications help lower A1C levels, an important marker for long-term blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. They work by:
- Stimulating insulin production when blood sugar levels are high, helping the body use glucose more effectively.
- Reducing glucose release from the liver, preventing unnecessary blood sugar spikes.
They follow a step-up dosing pattern
With both Ozempic® and Victoza®, your doctor will start you at the lowest dose and increase it gradually based on how well you tolerate it and how effectively it controls blood sugar and appetite. This approach helps minimize side effects like nausea and digestive discomfort, which is why a gradual increase is recommended. We’ll go over potential side effects in more detail later.
Ozempic® vs. Victoza®: What are the differences?
Ozempic® and Victoza® may have a lot in common, but there are key differences that can impact which one is the better fit for you. From their active ingredients to how much they cost, these differences can influence effectiveness and overall experience. Let’s take a closer look.
They have different, but related, active ingredients
As we’ve said. Ozempic® and Victoza® both belong to the same class of medications, but they’re made with different active ingredients. The biggest difference? Semaglutide stays in your body longer, so it only needs to be taken once a week. Liraglutide works for a shorter amount of time, which is why Victoza® is a daily injection.
They have very different pricing structures
While both Ozempic® and Victoza® are GLP-1 medications used to treat type 2 diabetes, their pricing works very differently. Ozempic® has a flat monthly price, no matter your dose. Victoza®, on the other hand, is priced based on how much medication you use, which means your cost can go up as your dose increases. Both also have alternative medications that might cost less, if weight loss is your primary motivation. Victoza has a generic alternative, and Ozempic’s sister medication, Wegovy®, can be cheaper if you get it through the manufacturer. We’ll go into specifics further on.
Ozempic® is likely to be more effective for weight loss
Ozempic® is often considered more effective for weight loss than Victoza®. Its active ingredient, semaglutide, stays in the body longer than liraglutide, which may lead to stronger appetite suppression and metabolic effects. This longer-lasting effect may help people lose more weight with Ozempic®. We’ll get into the details below.
Lose 48% more weight
with Noom than just meds alone
Ozempic® vs. Victoza®: Which is better for weight loss?
Both Ozempic® and Victoza® can regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and reduce appetite, but again, semaglutide is generally more effective at this than liraglutide. Research has found that semaglutide leads to nearly twice the weight loss of liraglutide.
Victoza needs to be taken daily because it only lasts about 12 to 14 hours, peaking around 12 hours after injection before gradually wearing off. Ozempic® lasts much longer—about a full week. Thanks to molecular modifications that slow its breakdown, it stays in your body for 6 to 7 days, providing a steady effect with just one injection per week. This means semaglutide offers more consistent GLP-1 receptor activation over time, while liraglutide’s levels fluctuate daily.
How much weight can you lose on Ozempic® vs Victoza®?
In one trial, people were assigned to receive either semaglutide or liraglutide. After 68 weeks, the semaglutide group experienced an average reduction of about 15% of body weight, while the liraglutide group saw an average decrease of about 6%.
The bottom line is that semaglutide is likely to lead to more weight loss than liraglutide. Keep in mind that side effects, dosing frequency, and personal health considerations should be discussed with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment for you.
How long does it take to see results?
How quickly you lose weight on Ozempic® or Victoza® can depend on a few things, like your lifestyle, eating habits, and how consistently you take the medication. That said, here’s a general idea of what you might expect based on clinical trial results:
Short-term results (3 to 6 months)
- Ozempic®: On average, people lose about 6% of their body weight at three months and 10% at six months.
- Victoza®: People lose an average of 6% of body weight at three months and 8% at six months.
Long-term results (12+ months)
- Ozempic®: People typically lose an average of 15% of their body weight over the course of a year.
- Victoza®: After 12 months, weight loss stabilizes at an average of 9% of initial body weight.
Just keep in mind that everyone’s results are different. These medications work best when paired with healthy habits, like a balanced diet and regular movement.
Can you switch between Ozempic® and Victoza®?
Yes, you can switch between Ozempic® and Victoza®, but it’s definitely something to do with your doctor’s guidance. Since they work a bit differently and have different dosing schedules, your provider will help you adjust things safely and smoothly.
There are a few reasons why you might consider switching.
- Cost is a big one—insurance may cover one better than the other, making it a more affordable option.
- Side effects are another factor; if nausea, fatigue, or other issues are hard to manage, a doctor may suggest trying another medication.
- Effectiveness also varies from person to person, so if weight loss progress or blood sugar control isn’t where it needs to be, switching might help.
One of the biggest differences you’ll notice upon switching is how often you take each medication. Ozempic® is a once-weekly injection, while Victoza® requires daily dosing. If you’re switching from Ozempic® to Victoza®, you’ll need to adjust to more frequent injections, while moving from Victoza® to Ozempic® means transitioning to a longer-acting medication.
Ozempic® vs. Victoza®: Who are they approved for?
Ozempic® and Victoza® are both FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes and can be prescribed off-label for weight loss. There are some key differences in who they’re approved for, though. Let’s take a look:
- Ozempic® is approved for adults with type 2 diabetes. It can also be prescribed off-label to people with a BMI of 30 or higher or 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition, like high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Wegovy®, Ozempic®’s semaglutide counterpart, is FDA-approved for weight management and to prevent severe heart issues.
- Victoza® is approved for both adults and children 10 years and older with type 2 diabetes. When prescribed off-label for weight loss, doctors follow the same BMI guidelines as for Ozempic®. Saxenda® is the version of liraglutide that is FDA-approved for weight management. Both can also be prescribed to reduce the risk of serious heart issues in adults.
Who shouldn’t take Ozempic® or Victoza®?
These medications aren’t right for everyone and could be dangerous for people with certain conditions. Tell your prescriber about your full medical history.
In general, you shouldn’t use them if you:
- Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- Are allergic to semaglutide or any of its ingredients
Talk to your doctor about whether they are right for you if you have a history of:
- Pancreatitis
- Severe gastrointestinal issues, such as gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying)
If you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should also not use Ozempic® or Victoza®.
For more detailed safety information, visit our Ozempic® safety page or the Victoza® prescribing information.
If you take Victoza® or Ozempic® to lose weight, will you need to keep taking them forever?
It depends. Some people regain weight after stopping Ozempic® or Victoza®, especially if no long-term lifestyle changes are in place. Some choose to continue using these medications at a lower maintenance dose to help maintain their progress.
Both Ozempic® and Victoza® work by reducing appetite, slowing digestion, and helping regulate blood sugar levels, but they don’t permanently change how your body controls weight. Once the medication is stopped, hunger signals and cravings may return, making it harder to sustain results without a strong foundation of healthy habits.
Here’s what happens when you stop taking Ozempic® and Victoza®:
- Weight regain is possible – Without the appetite-suppressing effects of these medications, some people regain a portion of their lost weight, especially if they have the same eating and activity levels they had before losing weight. A study on semaglutide found that participants regained about two-thirds of their lost weight within a year. Those who lost the most weight (20% or more) saw the biggest regain, while 48% still maintained at least 5% weight loss.
- Gradual tapering may help – Instead of stopping abruptly, slowly reducing the dose over time may help stabilize weight and prevent rapid regain. A study found that patients who tapered semaglutide over nine weeks kept most of their weight off for six months, with some even continuing to lose weight. While 21% restarted the medication, many maintained their results by pairing tapering with lifestyle changes.
- Ozempic® vs. Victoza® differences – Since Ozempic® has been shown to lead to greater weight loss than Victoza®, stopping it may result in more noticeable weight regain. Regardless of the medication, long-term habits are key to maintaining progress.
- Restarting treatment is an option – If weight regain becomes a concern, a healthcare provider may recommend resuming treatment or exploring other strategies for weight management.
To keep the weight off, focusing on long-term habits like healthy eating and staying active is essential. Following a structured approach, such as a guided weight loss program from Noom, can support lasting lifestyle changes.
Ozempic® vs. Victoza®: How much do they cost?
What you pay for Victoza® and Ozempic® may vary, especially since insurance coverage depends on whether the medication is prescribed for diabetes or weight loss. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
- Ozempic®: The list price is around $998 per month, regardless of dose. It’s possible it will be covered for type 2 diabetes, but it’s rarely covered for weight loss. Learn more about your potential costs for Ozempic®.
- If weight loss is your primary reason for taking semaglutide, you can consider Wegovy. If you don’t have insurance, you can fill your prescription through the NovoCare Pharmacy and pay $499 per month.
- Victoza®: The list price of Victoza® varies based on the package size, so your cost will increase as the dose increases. Each pen contains 18 mg of medication. A 2-pen package lasts up to 60 days at 0.6 mg per day or 30 days at 1.2 mg per day, while a 3-pen package is needed for a full 30-day supply at the maximum dose of 1.8 mg per day. There is also a generic version available through Teva Pharmaceuticals that might cost less: The price is approximately $470 for two pens and $704 for three pens.
- 2-Pen Package (0.6 mg & 1.2 mg doses): $543.51
- 3-Pen Package (1.8 mg dose): $815.27
Does insurance cover Victoza® or Ozempic®?
Insurance coverage for Ozempic® and Victoza® varies depending on your health plan, but again, it’s rare for weight loss. Both are more likely to be covered for type 2 diabetes. Many insurance providers require prior authorization and may ask for proof that other diabetes treatments, like metformin, were ineffective before approving coverage.
Since insurance policies change frequently, it’s always best to check directly with your provider for the most up-to-date coverage details.
Does Medicare cover Ozempic® or Victoza®?
Medicare coverage for Ozempic® and Victoza® depends on the reason they are prescribed.
- Ozempic® may be covered under Medicare Part D when prescribed for type 2 diabetes, but it is not covered when used off-label for weight loss.
- Victoza® is also covered under Medicare Part D for diabetes management for adults and children 10 years and older, but it’s not covered for weight loss.
Starting in 2025, the Inflation Reduction Act will cap annual out-of-pocket drug costs at $2,000 for Medicare Part D enrollees, potentially lowering expenses for those who rely on these medications for diabetes treatment. Because Medicare policies change frequently, it’s best to check with your specific plan to confirm coverage, out-of-pocket costs, and any available assistance programs.
Ozempic® vs. Victoza®: Side effects
Ozempic® and Victoza® can cause side effects ranging from mild to more serious. Since they both belong to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class, they share many of the same side effects, though some may be more common with one than the other. Here’s a look at what you can expect:
Common side effects
Most people experience mild to moderate side effects when they begin taking Ozempic® or Victoza® or when adjusting to a higher dose. These may include:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea or constipation
- stomach pain
- fatigue
These symptoms usually improve as the body adapts to the medication. Managing side effects with dietary adjustments, staying hydrated, and slowly increasing the dose as prescribed can help.
Serious side effects and warnings
While Ozempic® and Victoza® are well-researched and generally safe for most people, they can carry serious risks in some cases. It’s important to follow prescription guidelines and talk to your doctor if you experience symptoms that are concerning.
Boxed warning for Ozempic® and Victoza®
Both Ozempic® and Victoza® have an FDA boxed warning about a potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). This risk has only been observed in animal studies, and it is unclear if it applies to humans. Don’t take these medications if you or a family member has a history of MTC or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Get immediate medical help if you experience any of the following:
- Pancreatitis – Symptoms include severe abdominal pain that may spread to your back, with or without vomiting. Learn more about the risk of pancreatitis with Ozempic®.
- Vision changes – Any sudden vision loss or changes require immediate medical attention.
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) – Symptoms include dizziness, shakiness, blurred vision, rapid heartbeat, and feeling jittery. This is more common in people taking additional diabetes medications. Read about Ozempic® and hypoglycemia here.
- Kidney problems – Dehydration from diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting can worsen kidney function. Watch for reduced urination, swelling in the ankles or legs, fatigue, or shortness of breath.
- Gallbladder issues – Signs include upper abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, or pale-colored stools.
- Allergic reactions – Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or a rapid heartbeat could indicate a severe allergic reaction. Seek emergency care immediately.
For a detailed list of side effects and safety information, visit the official Victoza® website or our Ozempic® safety information page.
Ozempic® vs. Victoza®: Which one is safer?
Since Ozempic® and Victoza® both belong to the same class of GLP-1 medications, their overall safety profiles are similar. To reduce the risk of side effects, doctors start with a lower dose and gradually increase it with both medications. If you experience severe side effects, it’s important to talk to your doctor to discuss adjustments, alternative medications, or strategies to help manage symptoms.
Choosing between Ozempic® or Victoza®: Which is right for you?
Deciding between Ozempic® and Victoza® depends on factors like weight loss goals, insurance coverage, cost, and availability. While both medications belong to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class and help regulate appetite, blood sugar, and slow digestion, they differ in potency, dosing schedule, and effectiveness. Let’s break it down:
| Criteria | Ozempic® | Victoza® |
|---|---|---|
| Weight loss effectiveness | People lose an average of 15% of body weight over 68 weeks | People lost an average of 6-8% of body weight over 68 weeks |
| Insurance coverage | Possible for type 2 diabetes, rarely for weight loss | Same |
| Price (without insurance) | $998 per month | $544 (2-pen), $815 (3-pen) |
| Common side effects | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation; may cause stronger GI effects than Saxenda | Similar side effects, generally milder than Ozempic® |
| Availability | All semaglitude medications were removed from the FDA shortage list in February 2025. You could still experience delays in prescription refills because of the drug’s popularity. | Branded liraglutide medications are still listed on the FDA shortage list, so they may be difficult to find. |
When deciding between Ozempic® and Victoza®, consider your health goals, insurance coverage, and how well you tolerate each medication. Speaking with your doctor can help determine which option is the best fit for your needs.
Alternatives to Ozempic® and Victoza®
If Ozempic® or Victoza® isn’t the right fit due to cost, availability, or personal preference, several alternatives may support weight loss. These include other GLP-1 receptor agonists, oral medications, and non-GLP-1 options.
| Medication | Brand names and uses | Cost per month (without insurance) | Effectiveness | How it’s taken |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide – GLP-1 receptor agonist – Same active ingredient as Ozempic®. | Wegovy: weight loss and heart disease Rybelsus®: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss | Wegovy®: $1,350 $499 (NovoCare Pharmacy) Learn more Rybelsus®: $998 Learn more | Wegovy®: People lost an average of 15% of body weight in 68 weeks with injectable semaglutide Rybelsus®: People lost about 4% of their body weight | Wegovy®: Weekly injection Rybelsus®: Daily pill |
| Liraglutide – GLP-1 receptor agonist – Same active ingredient as Victoza® | Saxenda®: weight loss and heart disease Generic liraglutide: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss | Saxenda®: $1,350Learn more. Generic liraglutide: $470 – $700 | People lost an average of 5-6% of body weight in one year. | Daily injection |
| Tirzepatide – GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist | Mounjaro®: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss Zepbound®: weight loss and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) | Mounjaro®: $1,080 Learn more Zepbound®: Pens: $1,087 Vials: $349 (2.5 mg) $499 (5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg) Learn more | People lost an average of 21% of body weight at 72 weeks. | Weekly injection |
Other medications
GLP-1s aren’t the only options. These medications work in different ways and can be prescribed to help people lose weight if needed.
| Medication | Brand names | Cost per month (without insurance) | Effectiveness | How it’s taken |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metformin (off-label weight loss) | Glucophage®, Fortamet®, Glumetza® | Generic: $4–$15 Brand name: $100–$500+ Learn more. | People lost an average of about 6% of their body weight over six months while taking metformin. | Pill taken up to two times daily |
| Phentermine | Lomaira®, Adipex-P® | $27-$100 | About 80% of people with a BMI of 30 or more lost at least 5% of their body weight in 6 months. | Daily pill |
| Diethylpropion | Tenuate®, Tenuate Dospan® | $40-$85 | People lost an average of 10% of their body weight in 6 months. | Pill taken one to three times daily |
| Naltrexone and bupropion | Contrave® | $600-$800 CurAccess™: $99 | People lost an average of 7 to 8% of their body weight in a year. | Pill taken up to twice daily |
| Orlistat | Xenical®, Alli® | $50-$800 | People in a study lost about 10% of body weight after taking Orlistat for 1 year. | Pill taken three times daily with meals. |
Finding the right medication depends on your health needs, goals, and insurance coverage. Whether you choose a GLP-1 option or treatment, working with a healthcare provider can help you determine the best approach for long-term weight management.
Lose 48% more weight
with Noom than just meds alone
Making the right choice: Ozempic® or Victoza®
While both Ozempic® and Victoza® have been shown to help with weight loss and blood sugar control, Ozempic® tends to lead to more significant weight loss. That said, effectiveness is just one piece of the puzzle. You’ll also want to consider how often each medication is taken and how much it costs.
At the end of the day, the right medication is the one that fits your body, lifestyle, goals, and budget. That might mean starting with one, switching later, or exploring an entirely different option. The good news? There are more choices than ever, and you don’t have to figure it out alone. Talk to your doctor about what’s best for you or see if you qualify for Noom Med. If you do, a qualified clinician can take you through all of the options and prescribe the right one for you if needed.
Whether you choose Ozempic®, Victoza®, or something else, the most important thing is finding a plan you can stick with—and one that supports your health long-term.
