Overview of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

Wegovy and Saxenda are both GLP-1 receptor agonists. These are mainly used to help people manage their weight. These medicines make you less hungry, so you eat less. They do this in similar ways. However, the details are different.

Wegovy (Semaglutide)

Active ingredient: Semaglutide.
Who it’s for: Used for long-term weight management in adults and children over 12 who are either obese or overweight with weight-related health issues.
How you take it: Weekly injection in the fatty layer just under the skin.
Benefits: Makes you less hungry by acting on GLP-1 receptors in the brain. This helps you eat less and lose weight (Drugs.com, 2024).

Saxenda (Liraglutide)

Active ingredient: Liraglutide.
Who it’s for: Approved for weight loss in adults and children over 12 who meet certain weight requirements.
How you take it: Daily injection in the fatty layer just under the skin.
Benefits: Makes your stomach empty more slowly. This makes you feel fuller for longer, so you eat less (Drugs.com, 2024).

Detailed Comparison Table

Features	Wegovy	Saxenda
Main use	Weight management for adults and teens	Weight management for adults and some teens
MHRA approval	Approved for long-term weight management	Approved for weight management
How you take it	Weekly injection	Daily injection
Key benefits	Reduces hunger, helps with long-term weight management	Reduces hunger, helps with gradual weight loss
Common side effects	Feeling sick, diarrhoea, constipation, stomach pain	Feeling sick, diarrhoea, constipation, risk of thyroid tumours
Other points	Not approved for treating diabetes	Not for treating diabetes, different dosage from diabetes drug Victoza

Practical points and prescription advice

Choosing between Wegovy and Saxenda

Both medicines must be prescribed. Your doctor must also keep a close eye on you when you’re taking them. The choice between the two medicines often depends on your specific health status and how often you want to take it.

Side effects and safety

Wegovy and Saxenda both have possible side effects, including stomach issues. Saxenda also has a risk of thyroid tumours. This means you and your doctor need to look out for any problems.

Cost and accessibility

Saxenda usually costs less. However, it involves daily injections. This can make it less convenient than Wegovy’s weekly injections.

Conclusion

Talk to an expert to choose between Wegovy and Saxenda for weight management. Think about your health, weight goals and lifestyle.

Further resources

If you want to know more about Wegovy and Saxenda, try these resources. They give detailed information and advice: