Wegovy vs Saxenda: The Difference Between These Weight Loss Medication

Are you struggling to lose weight and considering taking a weight loss medication? You're not alone. Millions of people worldwide suffer from obesity and are looking for ways to shed extra pounds. Luckily, there are several weight loss medications available in the market that can help you achieve your weight loss goals. Two of the most popular weight loss medications in the market are Wegovy and Saxenda.

In this blog, we'll compare Wegovy and Saxenda, discussing their differences, similarities, and effectiveness to help you be better informed of each medication.

Key Takeaways Wegovy vs Saxenda

• Wegovy and Saxenda are both approved weight loss prescription medications
• Wegovy is a once-weekly injection, while Saxenda is a once-daily injection.
• Both medications mimic the GLP-1 hormone to help reduce appetite and regulate blood sugar levels.
• Clinical trials have shown that patients taking Wegovy lost an average of 15% of their body weight, while those taking Saxenda lost an average of 5-10% of their body weight when compared with placebo.
• Both medications carry a risk of potential side effects
• Wegovy may be more convenient for some patients due to its once-weekly dosing, but it can be more expensive than Saxenda.
• The decision of which medication to choose will depend on various factors such as weight loss goals, medical history, professional opinion and lifestyle.
• It's important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any weight loss medication to determine which option is best for you.

What are Wegovy and Saxenda?

Before we compare these two weight loss medications, let's first understand what they are.

Wegovy

Wegovy is a weight loss prescription medication. It's a once-weekly injection that works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1, which helps to regulate hunger and appetite. Wegovy is approved for use in adults with a BMI of 27 or greater who also have a weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes.

We go through this more in depth in our Wegovy Weight Loss Treatment Page.

Saxenda

Saxenda is another weight loss medication and like Wegovy, Saxenda also mimics the GLP-1 hormone to help reduce appetite and regulate blood sugar levels. Saxenda is approved for use in adults with a BMI of 30 or greater or in adults with a BMI of 27 or greater who have a weight-related condition.

How do Wegovy and Saxenda compare?

Now that we understand what Wegovy and Saxenda are, let's compare them based on various factors.

Active Ingredients

One significant difference between Wegovy and Saxenda is their active ingredients. While both medications work by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, they use different compounds to achieve this effect. Wegovy active ingredient is semaglutide, while Saxenda's active ingredient is liraglutide.

Both medications have been proven to be effective in helping people lose weight. Unless you’re a pharmacist or medical researcher, this detail won’t mean much to you. The important thing to note is that both liraglutide and semaglutide have been thoroughly researched.

Efficacy

Both Wegovy and Saxenda have been proven to be effective in helping people lose weight. Clinical trials have shown that patients taking Wegovy lost an average of 15% of their body weight, while those taking Saxenda lost an average of 5-10% of their body weight.

Dosage

One significant difference between these two medications is their dosage. Wegovy is a once-weekly injection, while Saxenda is a once-daily injection. This means that Wegovy requires fewer injections, making it a more convenient option for some patients.

Side effects

As with any medication, both Wegovy and Saxenda come with potential side effects. Common side effects of Wegovy include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation. Saxenda may cause similar side effects as well as headaches and low blood sugar levels.

Cost

The cost of these medications may also be a deciding factor for some patients. Although it's undecided in the UK, within the US, Wegovy cost can be quite high, and we expect the monthly cost to be slightly higher than Saxenda.

Saxenda, on the other hand, has been on the market for a longer time and may be more affordable, with an average cost of around $1,000 per month in the US and £240 per month in the UK.

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Which medication is better for you?

Ultimately, the decision of which medication to choose will depend on several factors, including your weight loss goals, medical history, and lifestyle. Wegovy may be a better option for those who prefer a once-weekly injection and have a higher BMI and weight-related conditions. Saxenda, on the other hand, may be a more affordable option and is approved for a broader range of patients.

It's essential to talk to a health practitioner or qualified pharmacist such as Kennedy's Pharmacy to discuss your options, potential side effects, and any medical conditions or medications you're currently taking.

In conclusion, Wegovy and Saxenda are two popular weight loss medications that have been shown to be effective in helping people lose weight. While both medications work by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, they differ in dosage, side effects, and cost.

Ultimately, the decision of which medication to choose will depend on various factors such as weight loss goals, medical history, and lifestyle. It's important to consult your doctor before starting any weight loss medication to determine which option is best for you.

Wegovy vs Saxenda FAQs

Are Wegovy and Saxenda safe to use?

Both medications have been approved by the FDA for use in adults with a BMI of 27 or greater. However, as with any medication, they come with potential side effects and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

How long do I need to take Wegovy or Saxenda?

The length of treatment will depend on your weight loss goals and medical history. A qualified practitioner will determine how long you need to take the medication.

Can I take Wegovy or Saxenda if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

No, both medications are not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Do I still need to diet and exercise while taking Wegovy or Saxenda?

Yes, weight loss medications should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise to achieve the best results.

Can Saxenda and Wegovy Be Used Together?

Liraglutide and semaglutide are not indicated for concurrent use. Since all GLP-1 medications have the same mechanism of action, they are not helpful when used concurrently. Talk to a healthcare provider for more information.

References:

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5358074/
• https://www.medpagetoday.com/primarycare/obesity/91146
• https://www.wegovy.com/taking-wegovy/how-to-use-the-wegovy-pen
• https://www.joincalibrate.com/resources/wegovy-vs-saxenda
• https://khealth.com/learn/weight-loss/wegovy-vs-saxenda/