What you’ll learn:
- Wegovy® tends to lead to greater weight loss than Saxenda®, with the added convenience of once-weekly dosing.
- Saxenda® can still be highly effective for some, especially when paired with strong lifestyle support and early progress tracking.
- Choosing the right medication depends on your personal goals, preferences, and how your body responds.
Ozempic® has become a household name, largely due to its popularity as a weight loss aid, even though it’s officially approved for managing type 2 diabetes. Many people have used it off-label for weight loss, but it’s not the only option out there. Ozempic® belongs to a broader group of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists, and several others in this class are now FDA-approved specifically for weight management. Two to know: Wegovy® and Saxenda®.
Both Wegovy® and Saxenda® work by mimicking GLP-1, a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate blood sugar, reduce appetite, and slow digestion. This combination helps you feel full longer after eating, so you’re likely to eat less without feeling hungry or deprived.
While they work in similar ways, the difference comes down to how often you take them. Wegovy® contains semaglutide (the same ingredient as Ozempic®), which stays in the body longer and only requires a once-weekly injection. Saxenda®, on the other hand, contains liraglutide, which has a shorter duration of action and must be taken daily by injection.
It’s also worth noting that Wegovy® is generally more effective for weight loss than Saxenda®, which we’ll explore further.
So, which one might be right for you? That depends on your health goals, lifestyle, and how you prefer to manage your medication. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Wegovy® vs. Saxenda®—from how they work to their side effects, dosing schedules, and costs—to help you make an informed decision.
Wegovy® vs. Saxenda®: How do they work?
Wegovy® (semaglutide) and Saxenda® (liraglutide) are both GLP-1 receptor agonists that help regulate blood sugar, insulin levels, and appetite. By slowing down digestion, they help people feel full longer and eat fewer calories. However, they differ in how they work and how often they need to be taken.
Wegovy® has a longer half-life, requiring only one injection per week, while Saxenda® and its diabetes counterpart, Victoza®, require daily injections because their effects wear off more quickly. This difference could be one of the factors that makes Wegovy® more effective for weight loss than Saxenda®.
Both medications have played a major role in expanding weight loss treatment options. In 2014, Saxenda® was the first GLP-1 drug approved for long-term weight management, setting the stage for newer, more advanced therapies. Wegovy® followed in 2021, expanding the GLP-1 effects and delivering even better results.
Wegovy® vs. Saxenda®: What are the similarities?
Wegovy® and Saxenda® may seem like competitors, but they’re more like close cousins in the world of weight loss medications. Here’s what they have in common:
They’re made by the same company
Both Saxenda® and Wegovy® were developed and manufactured by Novo Nordisk, the same company that produces Ozempic®.
They are FDA-approved for weight management
The FDA has approved both medications for weight loss, meaning they’ve been clinically proven to help people lose weight when combined with healthy lifestyle changes. They are also approved to prevent heart disease.
You take them the same way
Both medications are also administered as injections, making them different from oral weight-loss drugs.
They are expensive and insurance coverage is unlikely
Like many advanced treatments, they come with a high price tag. The actual cost varies based on insurance coverage, which is rare for weight loss medications.
Wegovy® vs. Saxenda®: What are the differences?
While Wegovy® and Saxenda® have their similarities, their differences are important when you’re choosing the right one for you. Let’s take a closer look:
Dosing
The biggest difference between Wegovy® and Saxenda® is how often they’re taken. Saxenda® requires a daily injection, while Wegovy® is a once-weekly shot. If remembering to take medication every day sounds like a hassle, Wegovy®’s weekly schedule may offer more convenience and fewer missed doses.
Weight loss potential
Studies suggest that Wegovy® leads to greater weight loss than Saxenda® for most people. This difference is largely due to Wegovy®’s stronger and longer-lasting effects on appetite control, making it a more potent option for weight management.
Price
The cost of Wegovy® and Saxenda® can be a deciding factor for many people, as both medications are expensive without insurance.
- Wegovy® costs around $1,350 per month before insurance. If insurance doesn’t cover your medication, you can get it directly from the manufacturer for $499 per month through the Novo Care Pharmacy.
- Saxenda® has a similar price, typically around $1,350 per month. It will be more affordable with insurance coverage, though this is still rare.
Can you switch between Wegovy® and Saxenda®?
Yes, switching between Wegovy® and Saxenda® is possible, and it might lead to better results and fewer side effects if you move to Wegovy®.
It’s hard not to see the appeal of Wegovy®. With Wegovy®, you give yourself an injection once a week, while Saxenda® must be taken daily. This difference in dosing can be a major factor in sticking with treatment long-term.
Wegovy® might also result in fewer side effects, leading to better long-term use. In a head-to-head study, about 13% of people on Wegovy® stopped due to side effects, compared to 28% on Saxenda®.
Transitioning from one to the other isn’t always seamless. Your body may need time to adjust, and you might experience different side effects than you did on your previous medication. To ease the transition, your doctor will likely start you on a lower dose and gradually increase it while monitoring your response.
Wegovy® vs. Saxenda®: Which is better for weight loss?
If weight loss is your primary goal, Wegovy® is likely to be the better choice. But choosing between Wegovy® and Saxenda® isn’t just about clinical outcomes. It’s also about what fits best with your budget and personal preferences.
Let’s go through the weight loss you can expect with each medication. And keep in mind that long-term success comes from more than just medication. Combining treatment with healthy eating, regular physical activity, and habit change leads to sustainable weight loss.
How much weight can you lose on Wegovy® vs. Saxenda®?
Both Wegovy® and Saxenda® can be powerful tools for weight loss, but their effectiveness differs.
- Wegovy® (semaglutide): In a two-year study, people taking semaglutide lost an average of 15% of their body weight, compared to under 3% in the placebo group. Over 77% of them lost at least 5% of their body weight.
- Saxenda® (liraglutide): In a study that lasted a little over a year, people taking liraglutide lost an average of 8% of their body weight. 63% lost at least 5% of their body weight, and one-third lost 10% or more.
Another study took a different approach by using a targeted prescribing pathway—basically, people only stayed on liraglutide if they hit certain weight loss milestones along the way. The results were telling: for those who responded, liraglutide worked really well, with some losing 15% or more of their body weight. But it also showed that it doesn’t work for everyone, and early progress is a good sign of whether it’s the right fit.
What’s more, the study highlighted just how important lifestyle changes are. When combined with the right support, some people taking liraglutide saw results close to what we typically see with semaglutide. It’s a great reminder that the most effective weight loss plans are often the ones tailored to you.
Wegovy® vs. Saxenda®: How long does it take to see results?
While everyone’s experience is different, most people begin to notice changes within the first few weeks, with even more significant progress over the course of a year. Here’s what to expect in terms of the average percentage of body weight.
3 Months
In the first 12 weeks, many people experience noticeable weight loss, especially when combining the medication with healthy eating and regular exercise. Clinical trials for both Wegovy® and Saxenda® included lifestyle changes, which played a role in their success rates.
1 Year+
By sticking with treatment and making sustainable lifestyle changes, long-term success becomes more achievable.
Who can get a prescription for Wegovy® or Saxenda® for weight loss?
You can take these medications if you have a:
- BMI of 30 or more
or
- Have a BMI of 27 or more and at least one weight-related condition, like high blood pressure or high cholesterol
Saxenda® is also approved for kids aged 12 and up who weigh at least 132 pounds and have a BMI in the 95th percentile or higher for their age and sex.
Who can’t take Wegovy® or Saxenda® for weight loss?
Before starting Wegovy® or Saxenda®, it’s important to know if these medications are safe for you. Some health conditions and risk factors may make them unsuitable, and discussing your medical history with your doctor is key to finding the right approach for your weight-loss journey.
You shouldn’t take Wegovy® or Saxenda® if you meet one of these conditions:
- Thyroid cancer risk – A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
Ask your doctor if these medications are right for you if you have:
- Severe gastrointestinal conditions – History of gastroparesis (stomach paralysis) or severe digestive disorders.
- Pancreatitis history – Previous episodes of acute or chronic pancreatitis.
- Kidney or liver disease – Existing kidney or liver conditions that may be affected by these medications.
You should also skip all GLP-1 medication if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.
If you take Saxenda® or Wegovy® to lose weight, will you need to keep taking them forever?
When starting GLP-1 medications like Saxenda® or Wegovy®, it’s natural to wonder how long you’ll need to take them. The answer depends on how well they work for you, as well as your budget.
Most people take them for a year or more to reach their goals, but long-term use depends on individual needs and medical guidance. Some even continue taking them at a lower, personalized dose to maintain weight loss.
If and when you decide to stop taking Saxenda® or Wegovy®, gradual tapering is usually recommended. Easing off the medication allows your body to adjust and helps minimize potential side effects, such as increased appetite or changes in digestion. Stopping suddenly may increase the likelihood of weight regain, especially if healthy habits aren’t in place.
Here’s what may happen when discontinuing these medications:
- Appetite may increase
- Weight regain is possible
- Metabolism may slow down
- Blood sugar levels may change
To help maintain weight loss, it’s important to focus on sustainable habits alongside medication.
Lose 48% more weight
with Noom than just meds alone
Saxenda® vs. Wegovy®: Costs
The cost of medication can be a significant factor when deciding which is right for you. In general, Wegovy® and Saxenda® have similar list prices, but if you have insurance, you might pay less for one or the other. Also, manufacturers’ programs can reduce the price. Let’s take a look:
Here’s how they compare:
- Saxenda® – The list price for a month’s supply of Saxenda® is about $1,350. Your out-of-pocket cost may vary depending on insurance coverage, pharmacy discounts, and manufacturer savings programs. Learn more about the costs of Saxenda®.
- Wegovy® – The list price for Wegovy® is also $1,350 per month. Like Saxenda®, your final cost will depend on your insurance plan and any available discounts or rebates. If you don’t have insurance, you can get your prescription transferred to NovoCare Pharmacy and get Wegovy® for $499 per month. All doses qualify for this offer. Learn more about the costs of Wegovy®.
Wegovy® vs. Saxenda®: Side effects
Since both medications are GLP-1 receptor agonists, side effects tend to be similar. Let’s take a look at the most common and touch on some warnings and more severe issues that, though rare, can happen.
Common side effects of Wegovy® and Saxenda®
Most people experience mild side effects when starting or upping the dose of Wegovy® or Saxenda®. These side effects are typically temporary and improve as your body adjusts. They can include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Headaches
- Fatigue
Learn how to manage the side effects of Wegovy® and Saxenda®.
Serious side effects and warnings
Though rare, serious side effects can occur with Wegovy® and Saxenda®. Get immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Pancreatitis: Symptoms include severe abdominal pain that may radiate to your back, along with nausea and vomiting.
- Gallbladder issues: These include gallstones or gallbladder infections. Watch for upper-right abdominal pain, nausea, fever, or yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
- Kidney problems: Dehydration from nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea can lead to decreased urination, swelling in the legs or feet, and fatigue.
- Allergic reactions: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
- Vision changes: Blurry vision or sudden changes in eyesight may occur, especially in people with diabetes-related eye conditions (like diabetic retinopathy).
- Thyroid tumors: Both medications carry a warning about a potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors based on animal studies. Watch for unusual lumps or swelling in the neck or difficulty swallowing.
For a full breakdown of potential risks, read more about Wegovy® and Saxenda® safety.
Wegovy® vs. Saxenda®: Dosage and administration
One of the biggest differences is how frequently you need to take these medications. For some, a once-weekly injection if far preferred to a daily injection. Keep in mind, though, that in both cases the needle is tiny, and most people report minimal discomfort. In terms of dosing, both medications follow a step-up dosing schedule to help your body adjust and minimize side effects. Your doctor will gradually increase your dose over several weeks.
How to take Wegovy®
To take Wegovy®, you’ll inject yourself once per day on the same day each week. When you choose to give yourself the injection doesn’t matter, but you should rotate injection sites each time to avoid irritation.
Dosages: Your doctor will start you at the lowest dose (0.25 mg) and will increase it to keep you losing steady weight as tolerated from 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, to 2.4 mg. If side effects are too severe, you may stay at a lower dose for longer.
How to take Saxenda®
Taking Saxenda® is similar to Wegovy®, but you will inject yourself once a day, at the same time each day.
Dosages: As with Wegovy®, your doctor will start you on the lowest dose (0.6 mg), and it will be increased as needed and tolerated from 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg, to 2.4 mg. Again, your doctor may keep you at a lower dose if you experience steady weight loss and fewer side effects.
Tips for taking Wegovy® and Saxenda®
- Rotate your injection site – Use your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, and be sure to rotate spots each time to help prevent skin irritation or lumps.
- Clean the area first – Wipe the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it dry completely before injecting to help avoid irritation or infection.
- Store it properly – Both Wegovy® and Saxenda® should be stored in the refrigerator (36°F to 46°F). Don’t freeze them. If you’re traveling, use a cooler bag to keep them at the right temperature.
- Stay on schedule – Saxenda® is a once-daily injection, so a daily reminder can help. Wegovy® is once a week, so setting a weekly alert for the same day and time is a good idea.
Which is right for me when choosing between Saxenda® or Wegovy®?
Choosing between Saxenda® and Wegovy® depends on your health goals, lifestyle, and medical needs. Both are FDA-approved for weight loss and work by reducing appetite and slowing digestion, but they differ in effectiveness, availability, dosing, and cost.
How well your body responds to treatment and side effects should also be considered. Below is a comparison to help you decide with your doctor which option might best align with your needs.
| Factor | Saxenda® | Wegovy® |
|---|---|---|
| Dosing schedule | Daily injection | Once-weekly injection |
| Effectiveness | 5-10% of body weight in a year | 15% of body weight in about 2 years |
| Cost without insurance | $1,350 per month | $1,350 per month $499 through NovoCare Pharmacy |
| Insurance coverage | Unlikely to be covered for weight loss | Unlikely to be covered for weight loss |
Alternatives to Wegovy® and Saxenda®
Your weight loss journey is unique, and there are several paths you can explore beyond Wegovy® and Saxenda®. Let’s take a look at some other options that might be a good fit for you:
| Medication | Brand names and uses | Cost per month (without insurance) | Effectiveness | How it’s taken |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide – GLP-1 receptor agonist – Same active ingredient as Wegovy®. | Ozempic®: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss Rybelsus®: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss | Ozempic®: $998 Learn more Rybelsus®: $998 Learn more | Ozempic®: People lost an average of 15% of body weight in 68 weeks with injectable semaglutide Rybelsus®: People lost about 4% of their body weight | Ozempic®: Weekly injection Rybelsus®: Daily pill |
| Liraglutide – GLP-1 receptor agonist – Same active ingredient as Saxenda® | Victoza® (off-label) Generic liraglutide | Victoza®: $800 to $1,400 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 |
Lose 48% more weight
with Noom than just meds alone
Determining the right choice: Wegovy® or Saxenda®
Wegovy® and Saxenda® both offer effective tools for weight loss, but they differ in how they work, how often they’re taken, and how much weight people tend to lose. Wegovy® generally leads to greater weight loss and requires only a weekly injection, which can make it easier to stick with long-term. Saxenda®, while still effective for many, needs to be taken daily and may result in more modest weight loss on average. That said, some people respond incredibly well to Saxenda®, especially when paired with consistent lifestyle changes and behavioral support, proving there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
When choosing between the two, it really comes down to what works best for you: your body, your goals, and your routine. Talking with your healthcare provider can help you weigh the pros and cons, from expected results to cost and convenience. And no matter which option you choose, combining medication with sustainable habits like balanced eating and regular movement will give you the best chance of lasting success. Weight loss is a journey, and the right tools can make it a little easier to stay on track.
Note: Ozempic ® is not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.
