Wegovy vs Saxenda vs Ozempic: Which Semaglutide/Liraglutide Is Best?
Wegovy vs Saxenda vs Ozempic: compare three popular GLP-1 medications for weight loss. Efficacy, dosing, side effects, cost, and which is right for your goals.
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Quick answer: Wegovy vs Saxenda vs Ozempic
Wegovy is the best choice for weight loss among the three. It is FDA-approved for weight management, produces approximately 15% body weight loss, and requires only a weekly injection. Ozempic contains the same active ingredient (semaglutide) but is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes. Saxenda (liraglutide) produces approximately 8% weight loss and requires daily injections. For most patients seeking weight loss in 2026, Wegovy is the clear winner.
Not sure which is right for you? Check your eligibility online and discuss with a licensed provider.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Wegovy | Ozempic | Saxenda |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Semaglutide | Semaglutide | Liraglutide |
| FDA approval | Weight management | Type 2 diabetes | Weight management |
| Dosing | Weekly injection | Weekly injection | Daily injection |
| Max dose | 2.4 mg/week | 2 mg/week | 3 mg/day |
| Avg weight loss | ~15% | ~14% (off-label) | ~8% |
| Cost (no insurance) | $199–$1,349/mo | $892–$1,400/mo | $1,300+/mo |
| Cost (with insurance) | $25–$50/mo | $25–$50/mo | $25–$50/mo |
| Compounded available | Yes ($149–$299) | Yes (same as Wegovy) | No |
| Oral version | Yes (25 mg tablet) | No (Rybelsus is separate) | No |
| Cardiovascular benefit | Yes (SELECT trial) | Yes (SUSTAIN-6) | No dedicated CVOT |
Weight loss efficacy compared
The STEP 1 trial for Wegovy reported 14.9% average body weight loss over 68 weeks. Ozempic, containing the same active ingredient at slightly lower doses, produces comparable weight loss when used off-label. The SCALE trial for Saxenda reported 8.0% average weight loss over 56 weeks. Wegovy is nearly twice as effective as Saxenda.
For more details, see our Wegovy vs Ozempic guide, Saxenda vs Wegovy guide, and GLP-1 success rate guide.
Cost comparison
| Option | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Compounded semaglutide | $149–$299 | Cheapest, no insurance needed |
| Wegovy (self-pay) | $199–$399 | Brand-name, FDA-approved |
| Wegovy/Ozempic (with insurance) | $25–$50 | With savings card |
| Ozempic (retail, no insurance) | $892–$1,400 | Expensive without insurance |
| Saxenda (retail, no insurance) | $1,300+ | Most expensive, no compounded option |
Which should you choose?
Choose Wegovy if you:
- Want FDA-approved weight loss medication
- Want maximum weight loss (~15%)
- Prefer weekly injections
- Want access to compounded (cheaper) options
- Want cardiovascular benefits (SELECT trial)
Choose Ozempic if you:
- Have type 2 diabetes (FDA-approved indication)
- Have insurance that covers Ozempic but not Wegovy
- Are already on Ozempic and it's working
Choose Saxenda if you:
- Cannot tolerate semaglutide side effects
- Prefer a daily routine
- Have insurance that covers Saxenda but not Wegovy
- Were already prescribed Saxenda and it's working
For most patients in 2026, Wegovy (or compounded semaglutide) is the best choice. For a broader comparison including tirzepatide, see our GLP-1 comparison guide and medication chart.
FAQ
Which is best for weight loss?
Wegovy is the best choice — FDA-approved for weight management, ~15% weight loss, weekly dosing.
Are Wegovy and Ozempic the same?
Both contain semaglutide. Wegovy is approved for weight management (2.4 mg), Ozempic for T2D (2 mg).
Is Saxenda weaker than Wegovy?
Yes. Saxenda produces ~8% weight loss vs ~15% for Wegovy. Saxenda also requires daily injections.
Which is cheapest?
Compounded semaglutide ($149–$299/month). Among brands, Wegovy self-pay ($199–$399) is cheapest.
Can I switch from Saxenda to Wegovy?
Yes. Many patients switch for greater efficacy and convenience. Your provider will guide the transition.
Does insurance cover all three?
Wegovy and Ozempic are more commonly covered. Saxenda coverage is less common. With savings cards, eligible patients may pay $25/month.
Which has fewer side effects?
Both cause similar GI side effects. Wegovy has slightly higher nausea (~44% vs ~35%) due to higher efficacy.
Can I take Ozempic without diabetes?
Ozempic is FDA-approved for T2D, not weight loss. Wegovy is the FDA-approved semaglutide option for weight management without diabetes.
Related articles
Lose 15-22% body weight — GLP-1s from $147/month
Compounded semaglutide & tirzepatide prescribed online by US-licensed providers. No insurance needed — medication shipped to your door in 3-5 days.
⚡ Limited spots this month — 50,000+ patients already started
See if I qualify — Free consultationFrom $147/month · No insurance needed · Ships nationwide in 3-5 days · Paid partnership · Results vary
Doctor-backed GLP-1 weight loss from $147/month
Compounded semaglutide & tirzepatide. Online consultation with a US-licensed provider. No insurance needed.
⚡ Limited spots this month — 50,000+ patients already started
Paid partnership · Prescription product · Not everyone qualifies · Results vary
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