Wegovy vs Saxenda
Side-by-side comparison based on STEP-1 and SCALE phase 3 trial data plus April 2026 pricing.
Wegovy
Higher efficacysemaglutide (injection)
Peak weight loss14.9%
TrialSTEP-1
Administrationinjection
FDA statusweight-loss
List price$1,349/mo
Saxenda
liraglutide (injection)
Peak weight loss8.4%
TrialSCALE
Administrationinjection
FDA statusweight-loss
List price$1,349/mo
Weight loss comparison (220 lbs starting weight)
% of body weight lost over 18 months, modeled from phase 3 trial data
Monthly cost by payment channel
| Channel | Wegovy | Saxenda | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Covered by insurance ($25–150 copay) | $63 | $63 | $0 (Saxenda cheaper) |
| Manufacturer self-pay (LillyDirect / NovoCare) | $499 | — | — |
| Telehealth — brand name (Hims, Ro, Found) | $449 | $399 | $50 (Saxenda cheaper) |
| Cash retail (full list price) | $1,349 | $1,349 | $0 (Saxenda cheaper) |
Wegovy pros and cons
Pros
- ✓ FDA-approved specifically for weight loss
- ✓ Robust 14.9% average weight loss in STEP-1
- ✓ Wide telehealth and pharmacy availability
- ✓ Once-weekly injection (good adherence)
Cons
- ✗ High list price ($1,349/mo without coverage)
- ✗ Insurance often denies for weight loss without comorbidity
- ✗ Mild-to-moderate GI side effects common during titration
- ✗ Lower efficacy than tirzepatide-based alternatives
Saxenda pros and cons
Pros
- ✓ Most prescribing experience of any GLP-1
- ✓ Fully covered by Medicare for some indications
Cons
- ✗ Daily injection (vs weekly for newer drugs)
- ✗ Substantially lower weight loss (8.4% vs 14.9–22.5%)
- ✗ Outdated by newer molecules
Common side effects
Wegovy
- • Nausea
- • Diarrhea
- • Constipation
- • Vomiting
- • Headache
Saxenda
- • Nausea
- • Diarrhea
- • Constipation
- • Vomiting
- • Headache
Which should you choose: Wegovy or Saxenda?
Choose Wegovy if: you want maximum weight loss (14.9% vs 8.4%).
Choose Saxenda if: you prefer this medication after consulting your prescriber.
Final decisions should always be made with a licensed prescriber. This is educational content only.
Medical disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates only based on phase 3 clinical trial data and publicly listed prices. It is not medical advice. Real-world weight loss varies significantly. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any medication.