Wegovy vs Saxenda: The main differences

In our blog series “vs”, we provide information about the key differences between the most common weight-loss injections and tablets. In this blog, you’ll find a detailed description of the differences between Wegovy and Saxenda.

Wegovy vs. Saxenda – What are the differences?

Both medications work via the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) mechanism, a hormone produced in the gut that reduces hunger. They are injected under the skin and influence the feeling of fullness but differ in terms of active ingredient, efficacy, and application:

Wegovy contains semaglutide, a modern GLP-1 agonist that is injected once weekly.
Saxenda contains liraglutide, an older GLP-1 agonist that must be injected daily.

Studies show that semaglutide (Wegovy) is more effective in reducing weight than liraglutide (Saxenda).

How do Wegovy and Saxenda work?

Wegovy (Semaglutide):

Acts as a GLP-1 receptor agonist.
Stimulates the satiety center in the brain.
Slows gastric emptying.
Promotes insulin release and lowers blood sugar.

Saxenda (Liraglutide):

Also a GLP-1 receptor agonist.
Works similarly to semaglutide but with a shorter half-life.
Requires daily use for consistent effect.

Who is Wegovy suitable for – and who is Saxenda for?

Wegovy is approved in the EU for the treatment of obesity. It is used for people with a BMI of at least 30 or a BMI between 27 and 30 with comorbidities such as high blood pressure, insulin resistance, or sleep apnea. It is injected once a week.

Saxenda is also approved in the EU for the treatment of obesity (BMI of at least 30) and overweight (BMI between 27 and 30 with comorbidities). It may be suitable for people who do not want weekly dosing or do not respond to semaglutide.

Switching between the medications

Important to consider:

Switching between Saxenda and Wegovy is generally possible, but should be done only under medical supervision. There are differences in dosage, tolerability, and effectiveness. A seamless transition is not always guaranteed, and individual responses to the active ingredients must be considered.

Advantages and disadvantages of switching

A switch from Saxenda to Wegovy (or vice versa) can be beneficial if:

Insufficient weight loss occurs with the current medication.
Side effects are experienced.
Less frequent injections are desired (e.g. when switching to Wegovy).
A different mechanism of action appears more promising in the individual case.

Important: Both medications belong to the same class of active substances (GLP-1 analogs) but differ in their pharmacokinetics and efficacy.

Expected weight loss: Wegovy vs Saxenda

The amount of weight that can be lost with these “slimming injections” varies. Weight loss depends on lifestyle factors and individual response to the medication. Studies show an average weight reduction of:

Wegovy: average of up to 15% weight loss within 12–18 months, depending on dosage, diet, and exercise.
Saxenda: average of about 8% weight loss with consistent use over 12 months.

Summary: Wegovy vs Saxenda

Wegovy:

Active ingredient: Semaglutide, a GLP-1 agonist
Approval: For medical weight loss in overweight or obese individuals (BMI ≥30 or ≥27 with comorbidities)
Application: 1x weekly subcutaneous injection
Dosage: Start with 0.25 mg/week, gradual increase to up to 2.4 mg/week under medical supervision

Saxenda:

Active ingredient: Liraglutide, also a GLP-1 agonist
Approval: Also for overweight or obesity, on the market for a longer time
Application: Daily subcutaneous injection
Dosage: Start with 0.6 mg/day, gradually increase up to 3.0 mg/day under medical supervision
Note: Slightly less effective in terms of weight loss than Wegovy (average 5–10% weight loss)

Both medications delay gastric emptying, increase the feeling of fullness, and reduce hunger via the GLP-1 receptor. They are only available by prescription and should be used as part of a medically supervised weight management program.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.

Sources:

EMA product information on Wegovy and Saxenda: