Last updated: 05-06-2024
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: