Guide · Updated 2026
Saxenda vs. Wegovy
Two weight-loss GLP-1s from the same manufacturer. Wegovy wins on efficacy and convenience. Saxenda still wins on coverage in some situations.
At a glance
| Wegovy | Saxenda | |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Semaglutide | Liraglutide |
| Frequency | Once weekly | Once daily |
| Max dose | 2.4 mg | 3.0 mg |
| Avg weight loss (max dose) | ~15–17% | ~5–8% |
| FDA age range | 12+ | 12+ |
| List price | ~$1,349/mo | ~$1,349/mo |
| CV outcomes label | Yes (SELECT trial) | No |
STEP-8: the head-to-head
The STEP-8 trial randomized 338 adults with BMI ≥30 to Wegovy 2.4 mg weekly vs. Saxenda 3.0 mg daily. At 68 weeks, Wegovy patients lost 15.8% of body weight; Saxenda patients lost 6.4%. Wegovy also had lower discontinuation rates despite the higher weight loss.
Side effects
Both have similar GI side effect profiles — nausea, constipation, diarrhea — though the daily dose of Saxenda means more consistent, lower-grade nausea, while Wegovy patients tend to notice a spike in the day or two after each injection. Both carry the boxed thyroid warning.
Cost and insurance
Cash prices are effectively identical. Where they differ is coverage: some employer plans and state Medicaid programs cover Saxenda but not Wegovy (typically because Saxenda has been on the market longer and pre-dates the current formulary restrictions). Always check your specific plan.
When Saxenda still makes sense
- Insurance covers it but not Wegovy
- Wegovy is out of stock at your local pharmacy
- You strongly prefer a lower single dose spread daily instead of one weekly bolus
- Your clinician wants a shorter half-life drug (Saxenda clears the system in ~4 days vs. ~4 weeks)
FAQ
Is Wegovy stronger than Saxenda?
Yes. In the STEP-8 trial, Wegovy delivered ~16% weight loss vs. ~6% for Saxenda over 68 weeks — nearly triple the effect at maximum doses.
Why would anyone still use Saxenda?
Coverage. Some insurance plans (and Medicaid programs) cover Saxenda but not Wegovy. It's also occasionally preferred in adolescents (approved for ages 12+).
Is daily injection worse than weekly?
It's a bigger habit lift, but not medically worse. Some patients tolerate the smaller daily dose better than the weekly semaglutide bolus.
Which is cheaper?
Both list around $1,300–$1,400/month. Saxenda has broader Medicaid coverage in some states, which is often the deciding factor.
Can I switch from Saxenda to Wegovy?
Yes. Most clinicians stop Saxenda and start Wegovy at 0.25 mg, then titrate normally over 16 weeks.
See which providers match your situation
Take a 90-second questionnaire and we'll rank your top 3 telehealth providers by medication, budget, and state availability.
Find My Top 3 MatchesEducational content, not medical advice. Talk to a licensed clinician before starting or changing any medication.