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Wegovy and Saxenda are two of the most widely used prescription weight loss medications in the GLP-1 category. Both support appetite control, reduce cravings, and help regulate blood sugar, but the similarities stop there. These medications work differently in the body, require different dosing schedules, and produce different levels of weight loss.
If you are deciding between Wegovy or Saxenda, understanding how they compare can make the choice much easier. Below, we break down the five biggest differences to help you understand which option may fit your goals and health needs.
1. Active Ingredients and How They Work in the Body
Although both medications are GLP-1 receptor agonists, they use different forms of the hormone.
Wegovy (semaglutide)
Semaglutide is longer acting and stays active in the body for about one full week. It has a strong effect on appetite centers in the brain and slows stomach emptying for longer periods of time.
Saxenda (liraglutide)
Liraglutide lasts for only about 24 hours. Because of its shorter activity, it requires daily injections to maintain consistent appetite control.
What this means for most people:
• Wegovy delivers more powerful appetite suppression
• Saxenda offers milder day to day effects
• Wegovy requires less frequent dosing
2. Dosing Schedule: Weekly vs Daily Injections
One of the most important differences is how often each medication is taken.
Wegovy
Injected once weekly. Most people prefer the convenience of a single injection each week.
Saxenda
Injected once daily. Because liraglutide wears off in 24 hours, consistent daily use is required.
For many people, dosing convenience alone influences their choice.
3. Weight Loss Results: How Much Can You Expect?
Clinical trials show a clear difference in total weight loss.
Wegovy weight loss
In large studies, adults lost an average of 15 percent of their body weight after 68 weeks. Some lost over 20 percent.
Saxenda weight loss
Average weight loss is around 5 to 8 percent, depending on dose and lifestyle factors.
Why Wegovy works better:
• More potent appetite reduction
• Longer activity in the brain and gut
• Greater improvement in insulin sensitivity
Saxenda can still be effective, but its typical results are more modest.
4. Side Effects: Similar but Not Identical
Both medications can cause gastrointestinal symptoms while your body adjusts. The most common include:
• Nausea
• Fullness
• Bloating
• Constipation or diarrhea
However, differences arise from how long each medication lasts.
People using Wegovy may notice:
• Stronger appetite reduction
• More pronounced fullness
• Symptoms that last longer because the drug stays active for a week
People using Saxenda may notice:
• Milder symptoms
• Side effects that improve more quickly
Both medications are generally well tolerated, and dose titration helps reduce side effects.
5. FDA Approval and Who Each Medication Is Designed For
Wegovy
FDA approved for chronic weight management in adults and in teens aged 12 and older who have obesity.
Saxenda
FDA approved for adults with obesity or overweight plus one weight related medical condition. Also approved for teens aged 12 to 17 with obesity.
Both medications require:
• A reduced calorie eating plan
• Increased physical activity
• Ongoing medical supervision
Wegovy is usually chosen for people seeking more significant weight loss, while Saxenda may be appropriate for those who prefer daily dosing, want a gentler appetite effect, or cannot use semaglutide.
Which Medication Is Better?
Both medications work, but for different goals.
Choose Wegovy if you want:
• More powerful weight loss
• Once weekly dosing
• Clinically proven 15 percent weight loss on average
Choose Saxenda if you prefer:
• A daily medication with milder effects
• A treatment option that may be easier for those sensitive to semaglutide
• A gradual approach to weight loss
The best choice depends on your medical history, weight loss goals, insurance coverage, and how your body responds to treatment.
The Bottom Line
Wegovy and Saxenda are effective, clinically proven weight loss medications, but they are not interchangeable. Wegovy offers stronger and more sustained results, while Saxenda provides a gentler, daily dose alternative. Working with a healthcare provider can help determine which medication fits your needs and how to use it safely alongside lifestyle changes.
