Why Choose Liraglutide?

Liraglutide (the active ingredient in Saxenda®)[1] and semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy® and Ozempic®)[2] are both medications that belong to the same class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. Saxenda® (liraglutide), Wegovy® (semaglutide) is approved by the FDA for the treatment of obesity in adults, and works by mimicking the action of the hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduce appetite.

While all of these products are effective for weight loss, there are some advantages of products containing liraglutide over those containing semaglutide that may make them a better choice for certain individuals.  For example:

1. Dose Titration: Saxenda® (liraglutide) dose titration allows you to get to full dose after just 1 month of use compared to  Wegovy® (semaglutide), and Ozempic® (semaglutide) which often takes 5 months to get to full dose.
2. Once-daily dosing: Saxenda® (liraglutide) is typically taken once a day, while Wegovy® (semaglutide), and Ozempic® (semaglutide) is taken once a week. This may make Saxenda® (liraglutide) a more convenient option for people concerned about side effects.
3. Longer history of use: Saxenda® (liraglutide) has been available for a longer period of time than Wegovy® (semaglutide), and Ozempic® (semaglutide), and as a result, there is more long-term safety and efficacy data available for Saxenda® (liraglutide).
4. Cost: Saxenda® (liraglutide) is generally less expensive than Wegovy® (semaglutide), and Ozempic® (semaglutide).

In summary,  Saxenda® (liraglutide) may have some advantages over Wegovy® (semaglutide), and Ozempic® (semaglutide) such as a lower dose, once-daily dosing, longer history of use, and potentially lower cost. However, the choice between the these alterantives should be based on individual factors, such as the severity of obesity, medical history, risk of side effects, and cost. It is important to discuss with your Ivím provider which medication may be the best option for you.

[1] Saxenda® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk.  Ivim Health has no affiliation with Novo Nordisk.  The compound liraglutide products available as part of Ivim Health’s Weight Loss Program are not made by Novo Nordisk or any company affiliated with Novo Nordisk.

[2] Ozempic® and Wegovy® are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk.  Ivim Health has no affiliation with Novo Nordisk.  The compound semaglutide products available as part of Ivim Health’s Weight Loss Program are not made by Novo Nordisk or any company affiliated with Novo Nordisk.