Liraglutide vs Semaglutide: What are the differences?

In the field of weight control and diabetes care, two drugs have caught a lot of attention: liraglutide and semaglutide. These medicines have impacted how we treat obesity and type 2 diabetes, giving new hope to millions of patients. As patients and doctors consider their choices, the question of liraglutide vs semaglutide often comes up, leading them to take a closer look at how well they work, how safe they are, and what good they might do.

This article aims to highlight the main differences between liraglutide and semaglutide. It explores how they work, their weight-loss potential, and their side effects. We'll look into the advantages and things to consider for each drug, helping potential patients understand which option might work better for their needs. 

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Key Takeaways

• Semaglutide has shown greater effectiveness than liraglutide for weight loss and blood sugar control. Studies indicate that semaglutide supports weight loss of around 15%, compared to 5-6% with liraglutide ^[1].

• In a 68-week trial, semaglutide resulted in a mean weight change of -15.8% from baseline, while liraglutide achieved -6.4% ^[2].

• Semaglutide is more effective at lowering blood sugar levels in individuals with and without type 2 diabetes, outperforming liraglutide by approximately 0.5% in HbA1c reduction ^[1].

• Both medications can potentially help reduce blood sugar levels below the diagnostic threshold for type 2 diabetes in some individuals ^[1].

• Semaglutide is administered once weekly, while liraglutide requires daily injections ^[3].

• Side effects are similar for both medications, primarily involving gastrointestinal issues. But, semaglutide appears to be better tolerated overall ^{[1] [2]}.

• Discontinuation rates due to side effects are lower with semaglutide (13.5%) compared to liraglutide (27.6%) ^[2].

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What Is Semaglutide

Semaglutide helps control blood sugar and manage weight. It's part of a group of medicines called incretin mimetics GLP-1 receptor agonists [4]. This groundbreaking drug looks 94% like human GLP-1 (7-37) [4].

Semaglutide plays a key role in the body. When given, it sticks to and turns on the GLP-1 receptor, which causes more insulin to be released from pancreatic beta cells when glucose is present. These effects working together can lead to lower glucose levels after meals [4].

Besides affecting blood sugar, oral semaglutide, and injectable semaglutide play a role in controlling appetite. It binds to and activates GLP-1 receptors in the brain, which curbs hunger. This leads to lower calorie consumption and weight loss [4].

You can find semaglutide in different forms for various medical uses:

1. Ozempic^®: Adults with type 2 diabetes inject this drug to control their blood sugar when other meds don't do the job. It also cuts down the chance of stroke, heart attack, or death in adults who have type 2 diabetes, along with heart and blood vessel problems [5].

2. Wegovy^®: Obese adults or overweight adults with health issues linked to their weight use this injectable to lose pounds. Doctors also give it to obese kids 12 and up to help them slim down [5].

3. Rybelsus^®: This medication comes in pill form and contains semaglutide [6].

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Semaglutide injections are administered once per week. Patients inject it under the skin of their stomach, thighs, or upper arm, or they can take it by mouth [7]. To make the medicine effective, you need to use it correctly. This means checking your blood sugar often and sticking to the meal plan your doctor gives you [7].

It's essential to understand semaglutide dosages and guidelines. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully and report any side effects or concerns you may experience while using semaglutide.

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What Is Liraglutide

Liraglutide impacts blood sugar control and weight management. This drug falls into the incretin mimetics group of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists [8]. Doctors consider liraglutide a groundbreaking medication. It's a long-acting fatty acylated GLP-1 analog that patients receive through a shot under the skin [8].

Liraglutide plays a vital role in the body. It helps the pancreas release insulin in the right amounts when blood sugar goes up. Insulin moves sugar from the blood to other parts of the body, where it's used for energy. Liraglutide also slows down how fast the stomach empties and may reduce hunger [9].

The long-lasting effect and 11-15-hour half-life of liraglutide stem from the attachment of palmitic acid, a fatty acid, to GLP-1. This attachment allows GLP-1 to bind to albumin. When GLP-1 binds to albumin, it gains protection from quick breakdown and removal. As a result, albumin releases GLP-1 at a steady, gradual pace [8].

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You can find liraglutide in different forms to treat various health conditions:

1. Victoza: Doctors give this as a shot to keep blood sugar in check for adults and kids 10 and up with type 2 diabetes when other meds don't work well enough. It also helps lower the chance of heart attacks, strokes, or death in grown-ups who have type 2 diabetes and heart or blood vessel problems [9].

2. Saxenda: This shot helps adults who are very overweight or those who are overweight with other health issues to lose weight. Doctors can also give it to kids 12 and up who weigh at least 132 pounds (60 kg) and are very overweight [9].

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While liraglutide is effective, it can have some side effects. These include stomach problems, and it might raise the chances of thyroid C-cell tumors and acute pancreatitis [8] [10]. Like all medicines, correct use and regular check-ups with a doctor are key to ensuring it works well and that patients stay safe.

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Benefits Of Semaglutide

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Weight Loss

Semaglutide has an impact on weight management. A 68-week study with 2,000 obese adults showed its effectiveness. People who used semaglutide along with a diet and exercise program lost a lot of weight. Half of them dropped 15% of their body weight, and almost a third shed 20%. On the other hand, those who changed their lifestyle without semaglutide lost about 2.4% of their weight [11].

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Improved Blood Sugar Control

As a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, semaglutide has a significant influence on blood sugar metabolism. It prompts the pancreas to produce insulin, which helps move glucose from the bloodstream into cells. This action helps keep blood sugar levels steady. Also, semaglutide stops the body from making glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels. By controlling insulin and glucagon, semaglutide manages blood sugar well, lowering the chance of sudden energy dips that can make you crave high-calorie foods [12].

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Cardiovascular Protection

Semaglutide influences reducing cardiovascular risks. Research indicates it lowers the chances of major heart problems, like heart attacks and strokes, in overweight or obese adults with known heart disease, whether they have diabetes or not. An extensive study with diabetic people found that semaglutide can cut the risk of serious heart issues or death by 26% compared to a placebo. Another study with non-diabetic people showed a 20% drop in similar outcomes [13].

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Semaglutide Cons And Considerations

Stomach and Gut Problems

People who take semaglutide often have stomach troubles. Feeling sick is the most common problem affecting up to 20% of people using it for Type 2 diabetes and even more in those taking more significant doses to lose weight [14]. Throwing up occurs less often but tends to increase with higher doses [14]. Diarrhea is another big issue, with 9% of diabetes patients and 30% of weight loss patients reporting it in studies [14]. Other digestive problems include constipation, gas, bloating, and mild stomach pain [14]. These side effects improve over time, but they can be a real bother for many users.

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Risk of Serious Complications

Though not typical, semaglutide has links to some serious health risks. The FDA has issued a boxed warning about the chance of thyroid C-cell tumors based on animal studies [14]. Acute pancreatitis, while not frequent, can occur and may threaten life if it does [14]. Less than 2% of people in clinical trials developed gallbladder disease, including gallstones [14]. In a few cases, kidney damage has occurred in patients who got very dehydrated due to severe stomach side effects [14]. Plus, some patients might see their diabetic retinopathy get worse [15].

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Expenses and Future Planning

Semaglutide can cost a lot. This steep price can put it out of reach for many people. Also, the drug's effects might not last forever. Users who stop taking semaglutide could regain some or all of their lost weight [14]. To keep the weight off, you may need to take it for a long period of time. This can be tough on your wallet and your body, given the possible side effects over time. To get the most out of semaglutide, patients should also eat well, exercise, and follow the guidance of their healthcare provider. This helps build good habits for staying healthy in the long run.

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Benefits Of Liraglutide

Weight Reduction

Liraglutide has proven effective for weight control. Combining it with a low-calorie diet and more exercise, a daily 3.0 mg dose of liraglutide has led to weight loss in overweight or obese adults without diabetes [16]. Studies show that adding liraglutide to lifestyle advice for a year resulted in 8.9- to 13.3-lb (4- to 6-kg) more weight loss than a placebo [17]. Over half the patients on liraglutide lost at least 5% of their starting weight within a year, which doctors consider meaningful [17].

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Better Heart Health

Liraglutide has an impact on reducing the risk of heart disease. It helps lower systolic blood pressure and glycemic index [16]. The SCALE maintenance trial showed that liraglutide helped people keep weight off and further reduced heart disease risk factors. These included lower systolic blood pressure fasting plasma glucose, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP) [16]. These changes in heart and metabolism markers point to possible long-term benefits for heart health.

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Diabetes Prevention and Management

Liraglutide has an impact on lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in patients with prediabetes. The SCALE prediabetes trial showed that 2% of people who got subcutaneous liraglutide 3.0 mg developed T2DM. This number was 6% in the placebo group over 160 weeks [16]. This means an 80% drop in T2DM risk. Also, liraglutide helps to boost insulin sensitivity and cut down CVD risk factors in people at high risk for T2DM and CVD [18]. On top of that, it helps to normalize glucose levels. 75% of those who received liraglutide reached normal fasting glucose. This number was only 19% for those who received a placebo [18].

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Liraglutide Cons And Considerations

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Stomach and Gut Problems

People who take Liraglutide often have stomach and intestine problems. They might feel sick, throw up, have loose stools, or get belly aches [19]. These issues can make everyday life challenging. Sometimes, users can get more serious gut problems like swelling of the pancreas, which needs quick help from a doctor [20].

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Risk of Serious Complications

Although uncommon, liraglutide can lead to some severe health issues. It might cause thyroid problems, including a higher chance of thyroid C-cell tumors [20]. This drug also has an impact on the risk of acute gallbladder or biliary disease [21]. What's more, it can speed up heart rate in people with type 2 diabetes [21].

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Long-Term Thinking and Keeping Watch

Liraglutide use needs to be closely monitored and must be considered long-term. Patients should get regular check-ups and blood tests to make sure the drug works correctly and to look for possible side effects [20]. Doctors also need to change the doses of other diabetes drugs to stop low blood sugar [21]. Some patients might have to stop taking liraglutide because of bad reactions, which shows why ongoing doctor care matters [21].  Liraglutide might make some people think about suicide more or change their mood, so doctors need to keep a close eye on mental health [20].

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Liraglutide vs Semaglutide: A Comparison

Liraglutide and semaglutide have proven to be effective for weight control and diabetes treatment. Research suggests that semaglutide has an advantage when it comes to weight loss and overall effectiveness.

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A 68-week study showed that semaglutide led to much more weight loss than liraglutide. People taking semaglutide lost an average of 15.8% of their starting weight. Those on liraglutide lost 6.4% [3]. The 9.4 percentage point gap was meaningful (p < .001) [3].

Semaglutide proved more effective in helping people reach significant weight loss goals. 70.9% of people taking semaglutide lost ≥10% of their weight, while 25.6% of those on liraglutide did the same [3]. People who took semaglutide had a much better chance of losing 10% or more of their weight (odds ratio: 6.3) [3].

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Also, semaglutide showed better results in different health markers. These included waist size, cholesterol levels, and HbA1c [3]. Semaglutide is taken once a week, while liraglutide needs daily shots. This might help patients stick to their treatment better and have fewer side effects [22]. While both medicines can upset your stomach, people seem to handle semaglutide better overall. Fewer people stop taking it compared to liraglutide (13.5% vs 27.6%) [1].

You can also find our comparison guide of Saxenda vs semaglutide in our guide.

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Semaglutide: A Quick Wrap-Up

Many people want to know if semaglutide is safe—patients should follow the guidance of their healthcare provider to ensure proper and safe usage. Semaglutide stands out because it controls blood sugar and helps with weight loss. Studies also show that it can lower the chance of serious heart problems [17]. Mild stomach issues are the most common side effects. But some rare and serious reactions have been seen, including:

·  Low blood sugar

·  Pain in joints and back

·  Swelling of the pancreas

·  Sudden kidney problems

·  Eye problems in people with diabetes

·  Allergic responses

·  Sudden gallbladder issues

·  Faster heart rate

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Like with any drug, you should talk to a doctor to check your own risks and benefits.

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Semaglutide comes in pill form, as a sublingual suspension, and as an injection. Each type has its pros and cons, and there are several factors to consider when deciding between semaglutide tablets vs injections:

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Oral forms (tablets and sublingual suspension):

·  No needles needed

·  You take them every day

·  Can make you feel sick, throw up, or have stomach pain

·  You should take them in the morning before eating

   and wait 30 minutes before having food

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Shots:

·  You need to use needles

·  You take them once a week

·  Might cause reactions where you inject

·  You can take them whether you've eaten or not

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As with any other weight loss medication, there are pros and cons of semaglutide for weight loss.

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Pros:

·  Clinical trials show it works

·  It makes your overall health better

·  It cuts down on hunger

·  It helps control blood sugar

·  It gives you a way to manage weight without surgery

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Cons:

·  It can cause problems with your stomach and gut

·  It costs a lot even more if you don't have insurance

·  You need to take semaglutide for a long time to keep seeing results

·  You might gain weight back if you stop taking it

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The semaglutide costs can add up quickly if your insurance doesn't cover it. Prices can change based on your insurance plan, where you buy the semaglutide, and other factors. Research shows patients might pay up to 68% of the cost themselves for weight loss drugs.

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Without insurance, semaglutide can cost a lot. Prices can change based on the pharmacy and where you live, but the cost of semaglutide without insurance is still sure to be high. Some online coupons or discount programs can help cut the cost of semaglutide treatments. There are also some reputable places online to help you find semaglutide.

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Many people have lost a lot of weight using this drug. These semaglutide success stories show how semaglutide can help people shed a lot of weight and boost their overall health. Always talk to your doctor to figure out the best way to treat your condition.

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Final Thoughts

Comparing liraglutide and semaglutide shows how well they work to control weight and treat diabetes. Both medicines have good results, but semaglutide seems to work better overall for losing weight. Choosing between liraglutide and semaglutide boils down to personal circumstances like health background, daily routines, what each person prefers, and what’s suggested by their healthcare provider.

It's essential for patients to team up with their doctors to figure out the best treatment plan. As scientists continue their research, these drugs offer hopeful ways to tackle obesity and diabetes, making life better for millions of patients.

If you are considering other options, check some of our other comparisons:

• Lipotropic Injections vs Semaglutide
• Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide
• Semaglutide Tablets vs Injection
• Dulaglutide vs Semaglutide
• Metformin vs Semaglutide
• Saxenda vs Semaglutide:

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References

1. Rubino DM, Greenway FL, Khalid U, et al. Effect of Weekly Subcutaneous Semaglutide vs Daily Liraglutide on Body Weight in Adults With Overweight or Obesity Without Diabetes. JAMA. 2022;327(2):138. doi:https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2021.23619

2. Puddick R, Moncrieff F. Semaglutide vs liraglutide | Weight loss injections. Second Nature. Published August 2024. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.secondnature.io/us/guides/lifestyle/glp1s/semaglutide-vs-liraglutide

3. Rubino DM, Greenway FL, Khalid U, et al. Effect of Weekly Subcutaneous Semaglutide vs Daily Liraglutide on Body Weight in Adults With Overweight or Obesity Without Diabetes. JAMA. 2022;327(2):138. doi:https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2021.23619

4. National Cancer Institute. NCI Drug Dictionary. National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health. Published 2024. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-drug/def/semaglutide

5. MedlinePlus. Semaglutide injection: MedlinePlus drug information. MedlinePlus. Published August 15, 2022. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a618008.html

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9. MedlinePlus. Liraglutide Injection: MedlinePlus Drug Information. MedlinePlus. Published February 15, 2021. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a611003.html

10. Micromedex, Merative. Liraglutide (Subcutaneous Route) Side Effects - Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic. Published 2019. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/liraglutide-subcutaneous-route/side-effects/drg-20073828?p=1

11. UCLA Health. Semaglutide, also known as Ozempic, for weight loss - what you need to know. UCLA Health. Published January 12, 2023. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/semaglutide-weight-loss-what-you-need-know

12. Weiman E, Suero-Salvador T. Semaglutide for Weight Loss: Benefits, Side Effects, and More. Sesame Care. Published December 19, 2023. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://sesamecare.com/blog/semaglutide-for-weight-loss

13. Buss Preszler L. Health benefits of semaglutide — Beyond weight loss - Mayo Clinic Press. Mayo Clinic Press. Published July 2, 2024. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/living-well/health-benefits-of-semaglutide-beyond-weight-loss/

14. Hawkins-Jarrett Z, Aungst C. The 12 Semaglutide Side Effects You Should Know About. GoodRx. Published December 14, 2023. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.goodrx.com/ozempic/semaglutide-side-effects

15. Chao AM, Tronieri JS, Amaro A, Wadden TA. Clinical Insight on Semaglutide for Chronic Weight Management in Adults: Patient Selection and Special Considerations. Drug Design, Development and Therapy. 2022;Volume 16(16: 4449–4461):4449-4461. doi:https://doi.org/10.2147/dddt.s365416

16. Alruwaili H, Dehestani B, le Roux CW. Clinical Impact of Liraglutide as a Treatment of Obesity. Clinical Pharmacology: Advances and Applications. 2021;Volume 13(13: 53–60):53-60. doi:https://doi.org/10.2147/cpaa.s276085

17. Whitten JS. Liraglutide (Saxenda) for Weight Loss. American Family Physician. 2016;94(2):161-166. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2016/0715/p161.html

18. Kim SH, Abbasi F, Lamendola C, et al. Benefits of Liraglutide Treatment in Overweight and Obese Older Individuals With Prediabetes. Diabetes Care. 2013;36(10):3276-3282. doi:https://doi.org/10.2337/dc13-0354

19. Merative, Micromedex. Liraglutide (Subcutaneous Route) Side Effects - Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic. Published May 1, 2024. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/liraglutide-subcutaneous-route/side-effects/drg-20073828

20. Micromedex, Merative. Liraglutide (Subcutaneous Route) Precautions - Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic. Published May 1, 2024. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/liraglutide-subcutaneous-route/precautions/drg-20073828?p=1

21. Seo YG. Side Effects Associated with Liraglutide Treatment for Obesity as Well as Diabetes. Journal of Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome. 2020;30(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.7570/jomes20059

22. Henderson L. Is Semaglutide Better Than Liraglutide? | Wegovy Vs Saxenda | myBMI. myBMI. Published January 23, 2023. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://my-bmi.co.uk/medical-therapy/semaglutide-vs-liraglutide/

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Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is forgeneral informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute forprofessional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not berelied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blogis not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers areadvised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medicalconcerns. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner isnot responsible for any adverse effects, or consequences resulting from the useof any suggestions or information provided in this blog.

‌Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medicationsfor safety, quality, or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluationare required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is forgeneral informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute forprofessional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not berelied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blogis not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers areadvised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medicalconcerns, including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your ownrisk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequencesresulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog.

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