Saxenda vs Ozempic for weight loss: which is better for weight loss, cost comparison, results and side effects (2023)

Two of the most commonly prescribed injectable diabetes medications also work for weight loss. Saxenda and Ozempic are often compared.

This article compares Ozempic and Saxenda in terms of weight loss results, cost, and safety.

Cheaper and safer alternatives to Saxenda and Ozempic

NOTICE

Although weight loss injections are all the rage in 2023, they are not without their problems.

Both Saxenda and Ozempic are very expensive and involve a lifetime commitment costing upwards of $1,000 per month. They also lead to full weight regain after stopping treatment. There are also side effects, some serious.

For these reasons there are somesafer and cheaper natural alternativesthat work just as well for a fraction of the cost.

1 - PhenQ - natural fat burner and appetite suppressant

CLICK to see prices and availability of PhenQ

PhenQ is a dietary supplement designed to promote weight loss by burning stored fat, suppressing appetite, and increasing energy levels. The supplement is a mix of several active ingredients that together target multiple aspects of weight loss, all in one pill.

PhenQ's key ingredients include a proprietary formula called α-Lacys Reset, Capsimax powder (a blend of paprika, piperine, caffeine, and niacin), chromium picolinate, caffeine, nopal, and L-carnitine fumarate. These ingredients have multiple functions such as increasing metabolism and thermogenesis, regulating blood sugar levels, reducing hunger, and improving mood.

PhenQ is generally considered risk-free for most adults because it is made from natural ingredients. α-Lacys Reset is a combination of alpha-lipoic acid and cysteine, natural substances in the body that help neutralize free radicals and reset cells.

Other ingredients like paprika and piperine have thermogenic properties, chromium picolinate helps with sugar and carb cravings, and caffeine not only increases focus and alertness, but also helps suppress appetite.

However, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially for people with pre-existing health conditions or taking other medications.

In terms of price, PhenQ is actually many times more affordable than prescription weight loss drugs. A bottle of PhenQ (one month supply) is typically under $70, which can be cheaper than many prescription weight loss treatments.

2 - Altai Balance - Lower your blood sugar naturally

CLICK to see prices and availability of Altai Balance

Altai Balance is a natural dietary supplement promoted as a solution to help control blood glucose levels and support healthy weight loss. The supplement is named after the Altai Mountains, known for their rich variety of medicinal plants.

Altai Balance, as a natural supplement, is considered safer than many prescription drugs. It is formulated with ingredients that have been used traditionally for centuries to promote health and wellness, and their safety profiles are generally well documented.

However, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplementation regimen, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions or those already taking prescription medications.

In terms of price, Altai Balance is indeed a more cost-effective option compared to many prescription drugs used to control blood sugar levels. A bottle of Altai Balance (monthly supply) typically costs less than $50, making it an affordable option for many people. However, it is important to note that individual responses to dietary supplements can vary, and while many will find Altai Balance helpful, others may require more traditional prescription medications to manage their conditions.

Must read: What is the best diabetes medication for weight loss?

Prescription drugs Saxenda and Ozempic

Saxenda (liraglutide) and Ozempic (semaglutide) are prescription drugs that are injected, but here are some key similarities and differences:

similarities:

They belong to the same class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists.

They work by activating the GLP-1 receptor, a natural hormone in the body that helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. It can help with weight loss by slowing digestion, reducing hunger and calorie intake.

They were created as an option for chronic weight management when diet and exercise alone have failed.

They have been approved by the FDA specifically for weight loss: Saxenda since 2014 and Ozempic since 2017.

Differences:

Saxenda contains liraglutide, while Ozempic contains semaglutide, similar but different drugs.

Saxenda is taken as a daily injection, while Ozempic is a weekly injection.

Saxenda is only approved for weight loss, while Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes (at lower doses) and weight loss (at 1mg).

Saxenda may cause slightly greater weight loss based on clinical trials: up to 12% of total body weight was lost in one year compared to up to 10% with Ozempic 1mg. But results vary between individuals based on factors such as dose, diet, exercise, and length of treatment.

Saxenda typically costs a little more than Ozempic, between $1,200 and $1,500 a month without insurance, compared to $875 to $1,200 for Ozempic. Total costs depend on the specific coverage and insurance plans.

Ozempic may have a lower risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) due to its indication for diabetes and its approval at doses that do not significantly lower blood glucose. However, both drugs can cause nausea, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and possible pancreatitis or gallbladder disease in some users.

While Saxenda and Ozempic work in a similar way to activate the GLP-1 receptor and help with weight loss, there are differences in their specific ingredients, dosage, cost, side effects, and additional approvals.

Saxenda allows for slightly greater average weight loss, but at the potentially greater cost and inconvenience of daily injections.

Ozempic offers easier weekly dosing, reduced risk of hypoglycemia, and the ability to monitor blood sugar for diabetes and prediabetes at different doses. But the long-term results for weight loss remain less clear.

Last News: Semaglutide for non-diabetics is a good idea

Comparison of Saxenda and Ozempic weight results

These are the expected and average weight loss results that can be achieved with Saxenda (liraglutide) versus Ozempic (semaglutide):

Saxenda: In clinical trials, subjects using Saxenda for weight loss lost an average of 4.5% to 12% of their starting body weight over one year, depending on the dose.

The highest dose of 3 mg produced significant weight reductions of around 12% for most, which could mean a loss of around 24-36 pounds for a person who initially weighed 200-300 pounds. However, weight loss tends to stop and then resume at a slower rate after the first year of use. Lasting success requires consistent lifestyle changes and caloric deficits.

Ozempic: At the 1 mg dose approved for weight loss, Ozempic studies show an average weight loss of 7-12 pounds (3-5% of total body weight) over 68 weeks compared to placebo. However, almost half of the participants lost 10% or more, which would represent 20 pounds from their starting weight of 200.

As with Saxenda, weight loss is typically fastest in the first 6-12 months and then slows down, requiring constant adjustment to maintain long-term progress. The 0.5 and 2 mg doses of Ozempic (approved for diabetes only) generally produce 3% or less weight loss, with 1 mg producing the most significant weight-management effects based on clinical data.

Saxenda Weight Loss Results

Saxenda can achieve up to 12% weight loss (24-36 lbs) in 1 year for some, the largest average reduction possible. But the amount of weight loss varies and tends to decrease over time without further effort.

Ozempic Weight Loss Results

Ozempic can lead to about 3-12% weight loss (7-20 pounds) over about a year, with the 1mg dose producing the greatest effects in studies (7-12 pounds on average, but up to 20 pounds for some). However, the long-term results remain relatively unknown.

For any drug, the percentage and amount of weight lost depends on factors such as initial body weight, changes in diet and exercise, the dose required, and the duration of treatment. Some regain the weight without constant lifestyle changes.

Weight loss is fastest in the first 6 to 12 months and then slows over time as the body adjusts. Continued adjustments in caloric intake and activity may be necessary to counteract this trend.

Not all people lose weight equally with these medicines. Genetics, health status and other issues also affect each person's results. Close supervision with your doctor helps ensure progress and safety based on your unique needs and responses.

While Saxenda and Ozempic can help with weight loss in combination with lifestyle changes, the results achieved and the ability to maintain them depend on many individual factors. The 12-week periods between dose increases allow you to gauge loss and make adjustments based on how your body responds.

But long-term changes remain a challenge, making the case for testing the safest and most sustainable options before moving on to more intensive medical solutions. Modest, steady improvements are often more beneficial to health than short-term quick fixes without lifestyle changes.

Saxenda x Ozempic cost comparison

Saxenda (liraglutide) and Ozempic (semaglutide) are prescription injections used for weight loss, but there are some differences in their cost:

Saxenda (liraglutide) at a higher dose (3 mg) specifically approved for chronic obesity. The Saxenda brand typically costs $1,200-$1,500 per month without insurance. With business insurance, out-of-pocket costs typically range from $50 to $300 per month, depending on the plan's specifications. Medicare Part D and Medicaid can also provide coverage with affordable payments for those who qualify.

Ozempic - Semaglutide approved for type 2 diabetes (in lower doses) and weight loss (in a 1mg dose). A 1mg dose of Ozempic for weight loss typically costs between $875 and $1,200 per month without insurance. For those with private insurance, out-of-pocket expenses typically range from $25 to $250 per month. Again, public insurance plans like Medicare Part D may cover Ozempic for weight loss with lower payment options, depending on individual policies.

uninsured expenses

Without insurance, Saxenda generally costs a little more than Ozempic for weight loss: around $1,200-$1,500 per month versus $875-$1,200 per month.

health insurance costs

With commercial insurance, the out-of-pocket costs for Saxenda and Ozempic are often comparable to weight loss ranging from $25-$300 per month for most. Medicare Part D and Medicaid may offer even lower copays.

For those with high deductible plans, Saxenda can cost $100-$500 more per month compared to Ozempica. The exact difference will depend on the rates for each drug on your policy.

Both Saxenda and Ozempic offer savings cards that can reduce costs by up to $200 per month for those with commercial insurance. Some third party patient care programs may also be available for any medication based on income qualifications.

Only Ozempic is also approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes at lower doses (0.25 mg to 1 mg). Therefore, for those who need treatment for both conditions, Ozempic may offer benefits at a potentially lower total cost compared to Saxenda plus a separate diabetes drug.

Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on factors such as: type of insurance (if applicable), preferred formulary drugs, deductible status, and ability to access savings or assistance programs. Discussing the pros, cons, and costs of the Saxenda injection versus the Ozempic injection for your particular situation with your doctor can help you determine the best solution based on your health priorities and budget needs.

Side Effect Comparisons of Saxenda and Ozempic

Saxenda (liraglutide) and Ozempic (semaglutide) can cause some similar side effects due to their mechanism of activation of the GLP-1 receptor to help regulate body weight, but there are some differences to be aware of:

Saxenda as a daily injection for weight loss and Ozempic as a once a week injection for diabetes and weight loss can lower blood glucose and cause hypoglycemia, especially at higher doses or when combined with other medications. This risk may be somewhat less with less frequent dosing of Ozempic and the indication of diabetes. However, it is still necessary to closely monitor blood sugar levels with all medications prescribed by your doctor.

A calorie-restricted diet and weight loss with any medication may also provide benefits, such as improved insulin secretion, high blood pressure, or body mass index over time. But losing weight too quickly can cause side effects like fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. This is usually transient, but in some cases it may persist, requiring dose adjustment. The prolonged delay between doses of Ozempic due to its binding to plasma proteins may reduce the risks of these gastrointestinal effects for certain users compared to daily use of Saxenda, although it does not eliminate them.

Swelling, redness, or itching of the arm may occur at the Saxenda or Ozempic injection site. Ozempic causes fewer injection site reactions as it is given once a week into abdominal fat, whereas Saxenda is given as a daily injection into the abdomen or thigh.

Less common but potentially serious side effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, kidney problems, blurred vision, and thyroid cancer, possibly medullary thyroid cancer. While the likelihood of any significant or long-term problems remains low, new or worsening symptoms require immediate evaluation by your health care team to determine if treatment needs to be changed or stopped based on risk versus benefit. for each individual and current conditions.

Summary of Ozempic vs. Weight Loss Results, Costs, and Side Effects Saxenda

Ozempic and Saxenda are GLP-1 prescription drugs approved to help people lose weight, but they differ in ingredients, dosage, cost, and possible side effects. Ozempic contains semaglutide as a weekly injection, while Saxenda administers liraglutide daily.

Weight loss averages 7-12 pounds with 1mg Ozempic and 12% or 24-36 pounds with 3mg Saxenda over about a year based on studies, but results vary and decline over time without changes in lifestyle. life. Ozempic's long half-life and once-weekly dosing may reduce gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, for some compared to daily Saxenda injections, although risks remain with both drugs.

Without insurance, Saxenda costs $1,200 to $1,500 a month and Ozempic costs $875 to $1,200 a month. The total price depends on the insurance and can still be expensive, usually between $50 and $300 per month. However, both offer payment cards and patient care for those who qualify.

Although these drugs can reduce BMI in combination with diet and exercise, significant and sustainable results remain elusive. Careful follow-up is required to assess progress, assess side effects, and make adjustments. For diabetes and prediabetes, Ozempic also provides blood sugar control at different doses. Discussing your options with your doctor based on your medical conditions, lifestyle, and costs helps determine the best and most comprehensive solution for you.

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