Saxenda vs Ozempic: Which One Works Best for Weight Loss?

Losing weight can be challenging, but weight loss medications like Saxenda and Ozempic have become popular options for those who struggle with weight management. Both drugs are FDA-approved GLP-1 medications belonging to the GLP-1 receptor agonist drug class, which helps regulate appetite and blood sugar levels. Saxenda contains liraglutide while Ozempic contains semaglutide.

However, key differences between them may influence which one is best for you. This article explores Saxenda vs Ozempic to help you make an informed decision about their usage.

Key Takeaways

• Saxenda and Ozempic are both GLP-1 receptor agonists, but they have different active ingredients and uses. Saxenda is specifically approved for weight loss, while Ozempic is a diabetes treatment often used off label for weight management.
• Clinical trials show that both Saxenda and Ozempic can help people lose weight, but Ozempic may result in more significant weight loss due to its higher potency in blood sugar control. To compare all top GLP-1 medications and find the best option for 2025, check out our “Which GLP-1 is Best for Weight Loss in 2025” guide.
• Both medications require a subcutaneous injection and may cause side effects, such as nausea, abdominal pain, and low blood sugar. Consulting a healthcare provider is essential for determining the best option for your weight loss journey.

What is Saxenda?

Saxenda (liraglutide) is an FDA-approved medication specifically designed for chronic weight management. It is part of the GLP-1 receptor agonist category, which replicates the action of a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).

This hormone plays a critical role in regulating appetite and food intake. By activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain, Saxenda helps control hunger and cravings, making it easier for certain individuals to stick to a reduced calorie diet and ultimately lose weight.

Saxenda is prescribed for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, classified as obesity, or for individuals with a BMI of 27 or higher who have a weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or heart disease. Unlike some other weight loss medications, Saxenda is also approved for use in adolescents aged 12 and older who struggle with obesity, whereas Ozempic is not approved for children.

How Saxenda Works

Saxenda’s active ingredient, liraglutide, affects the body’s natural hunger and satiety signals. The medication delays gastric emptying, which means food stays in the stomach longer, leading to a prolonged feeling of fullness. This effect reduces hunger and leads to eating fewer calories, which is essential for effective weight loss.

Additionally, Saxenda signals the brain to suppress appetite by interacting with the hypothalamus, the part of the brain responsible for regulating hunger. This dual-action mechanism—slowing digestion and controlling appetite—makes Saxenda a valuable tool for long-term weight management.

Unlike Ozempic, Saxenda is specifically approved for weight loss rather than blood sugar control. Although it can have some benefits for blood glucose levels, its primary purpose is to help compatible individuals achieve and maintain a clinically significant weight loss over time.

Saxenda Dosage and Administration

Saxenda is administered as a once-daily subcutaneous injection that is gradually increased over several weeks to minimize side effects. The medication is injected under the skin, typically in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.

Unlike Ozempic, which is injected once weekly, Saxenda requires daily administration to maintain its effects on appetite suppression and weight loss.

Dosage Schedule:

The initial dose for Saxenda is 0.6 mg per day, which is slowly increased in weekly steps until reaching the maintenance dose of 3 mg per day. This gradual increase allows the body to adjust to the medication, reducing the likelihood of nausea and other gastrointestinal side effects.

Here is the typical dosage escalation schedule:

Week	Daily Saxenda Dose
Week 1	0.6 mg
Week 2	1.2 mg
Week 3	1.8 mg
Week 4	2.4 mg
Week 5 and beyond	3.0 mg (maintenance dose)

Once the maintenance dose is reached, patients continue using 3 mg per day for as long as their healthcare provider deems appropriate for long-term weight management.

Patients should inject Saxenda at the same time each day, with or without food. If a dose is missed, the next injection should be taken as soon as possible within 12 hours. If more than 12 hours have passed, the missed dose should be skipped, and the next scheduled dose should be taken as usual. Double dosing is not recommended.

Saxenda Side Effects and Risks

Like all weight loss medications, Saxenda has potential side effects, some of which are mild and temporary, while others can be more serious. Both medications may increase the risk of gallbladder disease and pancreatitis as side effects. For a comprehensive breakdown of common and serious side effects across all GLP-1 medications, check out our GLP-1 Medications Side Effects guide.

Understanding these side effects can help users prepare for what to expect and recognize when to seek immediate medical attention.

Common Side Effects:

The most frequently reported adverse reactions with Saxenda include:

• Nausea – Most common during dose escalation but tends to improve over time.
• Vomiting – More likely at higher doses but may decrease as the body adjusts.
• Abdominal pain – Can occur as the digestive system slows down.
• Diarrhea or constipation – Gastrointestinal effects vary among individuals.
• Low blood sugar – More likely in individuals taking Saxenda alongside other diabetes medications.
• Injection site reaction – Redness, swelling, or irritation at the injection site.
• Fatigue or dizziness – May occur in some patients as the body adapts.

Serious Risks and Warnings:

Saxenda carries some serious warnings that require immediate medical care if they occur:

• Thyroid cancer risk – Studies in rodents showed an increased risk of thyroid tumors, leading to a black box warning for those with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
• Pancreatitis – Severe stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting could indicate inflammation of the pancreas.
• Kidney disease – Saxenda may cause dehydration, which can worsen kidney function.
• Severe allergic reactions –
  • Severe allergic reactions – Swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing, necessitates immediate medical attention.
• Heart disease – Those with a history of cardiovascular conditions should consult their healthcare provider before starting Saxenda.

Saxenda should not be used in individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer, those with a history of severe allergic reactions to liraglutide, or individuals with a history of pancreatitis.

How Effective is Saxenda for Weight Loss?

Saxenda has shown to be effective for weight loss, especially when used in conjunction with a low-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Clinical trials demonstrated that people taking Saxenda lost more weight than those on a placebo.

• In a 56-week clinical trial, patients using Saxenda lost an average of 8-10% of their initial weight, compared to just 2-4% in the placebo group.
• More than 60% of patients achieved at least 5% weight loss, while one-third lost 10% or more of their body weight.

Saxenda is most effective when combined with long-term weight management strategies, including eating fewer calories, increasing physical activity, and making sustainable lifestyle changes.

Who Should Consider Saxenda?

Saxenda may be a good option for individuals who:

• Have a BMI of 30 or higher (obesity) or a BMI of 27+ with a weight-related condition such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
• Struggle with controlling appetite and cravings.
• Prefer a daily injection rather than a weekly dose (as with Ozempic).
• Do not have a personal or family history of thyroid cancer.

However, those with a history of pancreatitis, kidney disease, severe allergic reactions, or a family history of medullary thyroid cancer should avoid Saxenda and consult a healthcare provider for alternative weight loss treatment options.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist originally developed for diabetes treatment, specifically for managing type 2 diabetes. However, its ability to help people lose weight has led to widespread off-label use for weight management. The active ingredient, semaglutide, belongs to the same drug class as Saxenda but is more potent and has a longer duration of action, making it highly effective in both blood sugar control and weight loss treatment. Saxenda and Ozempic are both prescription drugs manufactured by the same company, Novo Nordisk.

Ozempic was initially designed to improve blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes, reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart disease, stroke, and heart attack. However, clinical trials soon revealed its significant ability to help people lose weight, leading many healthcare providers to prescribe it for weight loss despite its lack of FDA approval for chronic weight management.

Unlike Saxenda, Ozempic is a once-weekly injection, making it a more convenient option for individuals who struggle with daily injections. Its impact on appetite suppression, gastric emptying, and blood sugar regulation has made it one of the most popular weight loss drugs available today.

How Ozempic Works

Ozempic’s active ingredient, semaglutide, mimics the GLP-1 hormone, which is naturally released in response to food intake. This hormone plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels, reducing appetite, and slowing digestion.

Ozempic helps with long term weight management by:

• Stimulating insulin secretion – This helps control blood sugar levels and prevents spikes after meals.
• Reducing glucagon secretion – Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood sugar; Ozempic helps lower it, contributing to blood glucose stability.
• Slowing gastric emptying – Food stays in the stomach longer, leading to increased fullness and eating fewer calories throughout the day.
• Suppressing appetite – The medication signals the brain to reduce hunger, making it easier to lose weight and stick to a reduced calorie diet.

Because it can help manage blood sugar levels, improve blood sugar control, and aid in weight loss, Ozempic has become a go-to medication for treating diabetes and weight loss.

Who Can Use Ozempic?

Ozempic is FDA approved for treating type 2 diabetes, particularly in individuals who need additional help with blood sugar control despite lifestyle modifications. However, it is also prescribed off label for weight loss due to its effectiveness in helping people lose weight and improve metabolic health.

Healthcare providers may prescribe Ozempic for weight loss if an individual has:

• A body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher (obesity).
• A BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or heart disease.
• Struggled with previous weight loss attempts using diet and exercise alone.

Despite its benefits, Ozempic is not specifically approved for chronic weight management, unlike Saxenda.

However, its effectiveness in helping people lose weight has led many doctors to recommend it as an off-label weight loss medication.

Ozempic Dosage and Administration

Ozempic is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection, making it more convenient than Saxenda’s daily injection regimen. The medication is injected into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm using a prefilled pen.

Dosage Schedule:

Ozempic dosing starts at a low dose and gradually increases to improve blood sugar control, support long-term weight management, and minimize side effects.

Week	Weekly Ozempic Dose
Weeks 1-4	0.25 mg
Weeks 5-8	0.5 mg
Weeks 9-12	1.0 mg
Week 13 and beyond	2.0 mg (maintenance dose)

The initial weight loss effects typically begin after a few weeks, with significant progress observed after a few months of consistent use. Patients are advised to take Ozempic on the same day each week, with or without food.

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible within 5 days. If more than 5 days have passed, the missed dose should be skipped, and the next dose should be taken at the usual time. Double dosing is not recommended.

Side Effects and Risks of Ozempic

As with all weight management drugs, Ozempic has potential side effects, ranging from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea and vomiting – These are the most frequently reported side effects, particularly during dose escalation.
• Stomach pain – A result of delayed gastric emptying, which can lead to bloating and discomfort.
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) – More likely in people taking Ozempic alongside other diabetes medications.
• Injection site reaction – Some users experience redness, swelling, or irritation where the injection is administered.
• Diarrhea or constipation – The digestive system may take time to adjust to the medication.

Serious Risks and Warnings:

• Thyroid cancer risk – Ozempic carries a black box warning for a potential risk of thyroid cancer, similar to Saxenda. Individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should avoid Ozempic.
• Pancreatitis – Severe stomach pain alongside nausea and vomiting may indicate inflammation of the pancreas.
• Severe allergic reactions – Symptoms such as swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, or rash require immediate medical care.
• Kidney disease – Ozempic may contribute to dehydration, which can worsen kidney function, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease.
• Heart disease concerns – While Ozempic may lower the risk of major cardiovascular events, it should be used with caution in those with pre-existing heart disease.

How Effective is Ozempic for Weight Loss?

Ozempic has been shown to be beneficial for weight loss, even though it is not specifically approved as a weight loss drug.

Clinical trials have demonstrated that Ozempic can lead to significant weight loss, often exceeding the results seen with Saxenda.

• In a 68-week clinical trial, Ozempic users lost an average of 10-15% of their initial weight, compared to 2-4% in the placebo group.
• More than 80% of patients achieved at least 5% weight loss, with many losing 10% or more of their body weight.

Because Ozempic is a once-weekly injection, many individuals find it easier to adhere to than Saxenda’s daily injections, making it a preferred choice for long-term weight management.

Who Should Consider Ozempic?

Ozempic may be a good option for certain individuals who:

• Need a once weekly injection rather than a daily regimen.
• Have type 2 diabetes and require blood sugar control alongside weight loss.
• Are looking for a more potent GLP-1 receptor agonist for chronic weight management.
• Do not have a personal or family history of thyroid cancer.

However, Ozempic may not be suitable for those who have a history of pancreatitis, kidney disease, or severe allergic reactions. It is crucial to discuss insurance coverage, side effects, and personal health history with a healthcare provider before starting Ozempic as a weight loss treatment.

Saxenda vs Ozempic: Key Differences

While both Saxenda and Ozempic belong to the GLP-1 receptor agonist drug class, they differ in several ways:

Factor	Saxenda	Ozempic
Active ingredient	Liraglutide	Semaglutide
FDA approved for weight loss?	Yes	No (off label use)
Injection frequency	Once daily	Once weekly
Weight loss effectiveness	Moderate	More effective
Effect on blood sugar	Minimal	Significant
Thyroid cancer warning	Yes	Yes

Dr. Matthew Olesiak, Chief Medical Director of SANE MD, explains: “Both Saxenda and Ozempic can aid in weight loss, but Ozempic may be more effective due to its longer duration of action and greater impact on blood sugar control.”

Which One is Better for Weight Loss?

When comparing Saxenda vs Ozempic for weight loss, Ozempic often results in more significant weight loss due to its higher potency. Clinical trials suggest that people taking Ozempic lose more weight than those on Saxenda. However, Saxenda remains a viable option, especially for those who prefer a medication specifically approved for weight loss.  Semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic) is often compared to tirzepatide, a newer GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist that has shown promising weight loss results. Learn how these two medications compare in our Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide for Weight Loss article.

“Choosing between Saxenda and Ozempic depends on an individual’s health goals, weight related conditions, and how well they tolerate the medication. Consulting a healthcare provider is essential in making the best decision,” adds Dr. Olesiak.

Insurance Coverage and Cost

Both Saxenda and Ozempic can be expensive, and insurance coverage varies. Some plans may cover Saxenda due to its FDA approval for weight loss, while Ozempic is more likely to be covered for diabetes treatment. Patients should check with their healthcare provider and insurance company to determine the best coverage options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Saxenda and Ozempic

Choosing the proper weight loss treatment can be overwhelming, especially when comparing Saxenda vs Ozempic. Both medications help with long term weight management, but they work differently and have distinct advantages.

Below, we answer some of the most common questions about Saxenda and Ozempic to help you make an informed decision.

1. Which is better: Ozempic or Saxenda?

The better option depends on your personal health needs, weight loss goals, and how well you tolerate medication.

• Ozempic tends to result in more significant weight loss than Saxenda due to its higher potency and longer action in the body. Studies show that people taking Ozempic can lose 10-15% of their body weight, compared to 8-10% with Saxenda.
• Saxenda is specifically FDA approved for weight loss, whereas Ozempic is FDA approved for diabetes treatment but is often prescribed off label for weight management.
• Ozempic is a once-weekly injection, making it more convenient than Saxenda’s daily injection regimen.

If your primary goal is losing weight, and you don’t mind using a medication off label, Ozempic may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a medication that is specifically approved for chronic weight management, Saxenda might be the right fit.

Consult a healthcare provider to determine which option aligns with your needs.

2. Why is Saxenda covered but not Ozempic?

Insurance coverage for weight management drugs varies widely and often depends on FDA approval status and how the medication is classified.

• Saxenda is FDA approved specifically for weight loss, so insurance companies are more likely to cover it under plans that include weight loss treatment.
• Ozempic is FDA approved for diabetes, so insurance plans often cover it only for diabetes treatment, not for weight loss. However, some people can get insurance coverage for Ozempic off label if prescribed for obesity-related conditions.
• Some insurers do not cover weight loss drugs at all, considering them non-essential treatments.

If your insurance doesn’t cover Ozempic, check with your provider about coverage for Wegovy. This medication contains the same active ingredient (semaglutide) as Ozempic but is specifically FDA-approved for weight loss.

3. How much weight can you lose on Saxenda in 3 months?

Weight loss on Saxenda varies depending on diet, exercise, and individual response to the medication. However, clinical trials provide general expectations:

• In the first 3 months, most people lose around 5-7% of their initial weight when combined with a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity.
• Some individuals may experience significant weight loss, while others may see slower progress.
• If at least 5% of body weight is not lost after 12 weeks, healthcare providers may reassess treatment effectiveness and consider switching to another option, such as Ozempic or Wegovy.

To maximize weight loss, follow a structured weight loss plan that includes healthy eating, regular exercise, and consistent use of Saxenda.

4. Should I switch from Saxenda to Ozempic?

Switching from Saxenda to Ozempic is a common consideration, especially for those who:

• Want greater weight loss – Studies suggest Ozempic leads to more significant weight loss than Saxenda.
• Struggle with daily injections – Ozempic is a once-weekly injection, making it more convenient than Saxenda’s daily dose.
• Are experiencing side effects with Saxenda – Some individuals find Ozempic easier to tolerate due to its different formulation.
• Need better blood sugar control – Ozempic improves blood sugar control, making it beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes.

However, switching medications should always be done under medical supervision.

Your healthcare provider can guide the transition, adjusting the dosage and monitoring side effects to ensure a smooth switch.

5. Is Saxenda better than Ozempic?

Neither medication is universally better—it depends on your health goals and medical history.

• Saxenda is better if you prefer a medication specifically approved by the FDA for weight loss and don’t mind a daily injection.
• Ozempic is better if you want greater weight loss results, need a more convenient once-weekly injection, or also need help with blood sugar control.

Ultimately, both Saxenda and Ozempic are effective weight loss medications, but the right choice depends on individual needs. Consulting a healthcare provider is the best way to determine which medication will work best for your weight loss journey.

Conclusion

Both Saxenda and Ozempic offer effective treatments for weight loss, but their differences matter. Saxenda is specifically approved for chronic weight management, while Ozempic is a diabetes medication often prescribed off-label for weight loss. Ozempic generally leads to greater weight loss, but Saxenda remains an option for those needing a daily regimen.

Before starting any weight loss treatment, it is essential to discuss options with a healthcare provider to determine which medication aligns with your weight loss journey and health needs.