When it comes to managing obesity and type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 receptor agonists like liraglutide (Saxenda®, Victoza®) and semaglutide (Wegovy®, Ozempic®) have become commonly used treatment options.
Both medications mimic the GLP-1 hormone to regulate blood sugar and appetite but differ in dosing, efficacy, and FDA approvals. Eden explains these differences between liraglutide and semaglutide forms so you can have an informed conversation with a healthcare provider about your treatment options.
What Are GLP-1 Agonists?
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonists are injectable medications that can produce the following effects:
- Slow digestion to promote fullness
- Reduce appetite and cravings
- Improve insulin sensitivity
- Lower blood sugar levels
There are many different types of GLP-1 agonists, and they’re just one part of your metabolic health treatment plan if you have type 2 diabetes or obesity. Your healthcare provider can help you decide if they’re right for you.
While initially designed for type 2 diabetes, drugs like liraglutide and semaglutide are now FDA-approved for chronic weight management.
Liraglutide Overview
Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that belongs to the incretin mimetics group. It is FDA-approved in different formulations for managing type 2 diabetes (Victoza®) and weight management (Saxenda®).
Liraglutide influences insulin release and slows gastric emptying, which may play a role in regulating blood sugar and appetite.
Brand Names: Saxenda® (weight loss), Victoza® (diabetes)
FDA Approvals:
- Type 2 diabetes (Victoza®)
- Obesity (Saxenda®)
How It Works
- Dosing: Daily injections
- Mechanism: Activates GLP-1 receptors in the brain and pancreas to suppress appetite and stabilize blood sugar.
- Efficacy:
- Weight Loss: Patients can lose 5-10% of body weight over 56 weeks.
- Diabetes: Reduces HbA1c by 1.0–1.5%.
Who Should Use It?
- Adults with a BMI ≥30 or ≥27 + weight-related conditions (Saxenda®).
- Type 2 diabetes patients needing glycemic control (Victoza®).
Semaglutide Overview
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist and incretin mimetic that shares structural similarities with the natural GLP-1 hormone. It is FDA-approved in different formulations for managing type 2 diabetes (Ozempic®) and weight management (Wegovy®).
Semaglutide influences insulin secretion in response to glucose and plays a role in regulating blood sugar and appetite.
Brand Names: Wegovy® (weight loss), Ozempic® (diabetes)
FDA Approvals:
- Type 2 diabetes (Ozempic®)
- Obesity (Wegovy®)
How It Works
- Dosing: Weekly injections (Wegovy®, Ozempic®) or daily oral tablets (Rybelsus®).
- Mechanism: A longer-acting GLP-1 agonist with stronger receptor activation.
- Efficacy:
- Weight Loss: Patients can lose 12-15% of body weight over 68 weeks.
- Diabetes: Reduces HbA1c by 1.5–2.0%.
Who Should Use It?
- Adults with obesity (BMI ≥30 or ≥27 + comorbidities) for Wegovy®.
- Type 2 diabetes patients requiring aggressive blood sugar management (Ozempic®).
Liraglutide vs Semaglutide: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor |
Liraglutide |
Semaglutide |
| Dosing Frequency |
Daily injection |
Weekly injection |
| Average Weight Loss |
5–10% |
12–15% |
| HbA1c Reduction |
1.0–1.5% |
1.5–2.0% |
| FDA Approvals |
Diabetes, Obesity |
Diabetes, Obesity |
| Common Side Effects |
Nausea, diarrhea, constipation |
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea |
| Monthly Cost Without Insurance (non-compounded versions) |
$469–$1,500 |
$997–$1,350 |
Differences to Consider Between Liraglutide vs Semaglutide
1. Efficacy for Weight Loss
- Semaglutide (Wegovy®) is nearly 2x more effective for weight loss than liraglutide (Saxenda®).
- In a 68-week clinical trial, Wegovy® users lost 15% body weight vs 6% with Saxenda®.
- Why? Semaglutide has a longer half-life than liraglutide, which may contribute to its effects on appetite regulation and weight management.
2. Dosing Convenience
- Semaglutide’s weekly dosing may be preferred by patients over daily injections.
- Liraglutide requires daily administration, which may affect adherence.
3. Diabetes Management
- Both drugs lower blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes, and some studies suggest that semaglutide (Ozempic®) may lead to more significant HbA1c reductions than liraglutide.
- Semaglutide also reduces cardiovascular risk in diabetes patients.
4. Side Effect Profile
- Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, diarrhea) are common with both drugs but are more intense with semaglutide due to its potency.
- Symptoms often subside after 4–8 weeks.
5. Cost and Insurance Coverage
- Liraglutide: Slightly cheaper, but still costly without insurance ($469–$1,500/month for non-compounded versions).
- Semaglutide: Higher price ($997–$1,350/month for non-compounded versions), but manufacturer coupons may offset costs.
- Many insurers cover these drugs for diabetes but restrict access for weight loss.
Who Is a Better Candidate for Liraglutide?
- Patients who prefer daily dosing to track effects closely.
- Those with mild obesity (BMI 27–30) and no urgent need for rapid weight loss.
- Individuals sensitive to semaglutide’s side effects.
Who Is a Better Candidate for Semaglutide?
- Patients needing significant weight loss (BMI ≥30) or improved glycemic control.
- Those prioritizing convenience with weekly injections.
- Individuals without severe GI sensitivities.
Safety and Long-Term Use
Both drugs are considered safe for long-term use but come with warnings:
- Thyroid C-Cell Tumor Risk: Both carry a black-box warning for thyroid cancer (avoid if personal/family history).
- Pancreatitis: Rare but serious; discontinue if severe abdominal pain occurs.
- Pregnancy: Not recommended—stop treatment if planning pregnancy.
Cost-Saving Tips for GLP-1 Agonists
Use Manufacturer Savings Programs:
- Novo Nordisk (maker of both drugs) offers coupons reducing Saxenda®/Wegovy® costs by up to $800/month.
- Eligibility: Commercial insurance holders (excludes Medicare/Medicaid).
Compare Pharmacies:
- Retailers like Costco or Sam’s Club often price medications 10–15% lower than CVS/Walgreens.
Prioritize Insurance Coverage:
- For diabetes: Both drugs are widely covered.
- For obesity: Submit a letter of medical necessity from your doctor highlighting comorbidities.
Consider Alternatives:
How Eden Can Help You Access Treatment
Eden simplifies your path to weight loss:
- Price Transparency: Eden’s “Same Price at Every Dose” guarantee offers consistent pricing for every dose and medication.
- Telehealth Consultations: Eden connects you with licensed providers for a telehealth consultation to discuss treatment options.
- Savings Information: Take advantage of Eden's competitive pricing and learn about available coupons or patient assistance programs.
Explore Eden's GLP-1 weight loss options for side-by-side drug comparisons, FAQs, and success stories.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between liraglutide and semaglutide hinges on your health profile, weight loss goals, and lifestyle. While some studies suggest semaglutide may lead to greater weight loss and requires less frequent dosing, liraglutide remains a viable option for those seeking milder effects or daily dosing. Eden is here to help you navigate these choices affordably and confidently.
Ready to take the next step? Connect with Eden's telehealth team.
