What you’ll learn:
- Semaglutide tends to lead to greater weight loss than liraglutide, with research showing a higher percentage of body weight lost over time.
- Both drugs are GLP-1 receptor agonists that curb appetite and regulate blood sugar, especially when paired with healthy habits.
- Choosing between liraglutide and semaglutide will depend on your lifestyle, preferences, and cost.
If you’ve been exploring prescription options for weight loss in 2025, chances are you’ve come across the names Wegovy® and Saxenda®. These two FDA-approved medications contain semaglutide (Wegovy®) and liraglutide (Saxenda®)—GLP-1 receptor agonists that have been shown to help people lose weight.
These same active ingredients are also found in type 2 diabetes treatments: Ozempic® and Rybelsus® (semaglutide), and Victoza® (liraglutide). (All three are sometimes prescribed off-label for weight loss.)
So, what sets liraglutide and semaglutide apart? And how much weight can you expect to lose with each? While both medications belong to the same drug class, there are key differences in dosing, effectiveness, and how your body may respond.
In this article, we’ll break down:
- How semaglutide and liraglutide work—and what side effects to expect
- How much weight you might lose—and tips to maximize your results
- What they cost—and ways to save
- How to choose the right fit for your goals—and where to get a prescription
Let’s explore the differences—and surprising similarities—between liraglutide and semaglutide.
Liraglutide vs. semaglutide: How do they work?
As GLP-1 receptor agonists, liraglutide and semaglutide mimic the effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that plays a key role in appetite regulation and blood sugar control. By binding to GLP-1 receptors found throughout the body, including in the brain, gut, and pancreas, these medications:
- Help reduce appetite
- Improve blood sugar levels,
- Slow stomach emptying
These combined effects can lead to weight loss or better blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.
Both medications require titration, meaning people start on the lowest dose and gradually increase over time to minimize side effects. Not everyone needs—or tolerates—the highest dose, and some people see meaningful results at lower doses.
Liraglutide vs. semaglutide: What are the differences?
While liraglutide and semaglutide function similarly for weight loss, they are different in a few important ways.
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you compare:
| Differences | Semaglutide | Liraglutide |
|---|---|---|
| How often you take it | Weekly injection (Ozempic®, Wegovy®) Daily tablet (Rybelsus®) | Daily injection (Saxenda®, Victoza®) |
| FDA approval timeline | 2021 (Wegovy®) – weight loss, heart health 2019 (Rybelsus®) – type 2 diabetes 2017 (Ozempic®) – type 2 diabetes | 2024 – generic liraglutide – type 2 diabetes 2014 – (Saxenda®) – weight loss, heart health 2010 (Victoza®) type 2 diabetes, heart health |
| Monthly cost (est.) | $998 to $1,350 | $370 to $1,250 |
| Weight loss effectiveness | Typically leads to greater weight loss than liraglutide | Generally less effective than semaglutide |
Liraglutide vs. semaglutide: What are the similarities?
Liraglutide and semaglutide may differ in how they’re taken and how much weight they help you lose, but they share a few important qualities. Here’s what they have in common:
- The side effects can be similar. Both medications can lead to gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, especially at the beginning and when the dose is increased.
- They follow a step-up dosing schedule. To help minimize side effects, both medications start at the lowest dose and gradually increase over several weeks.
Liraglutide vs. semaglutide: Which is better for weight loss?
When it comes to choosing between liraglutide and semaglutide for weight loss, studies show that most injectable semaglutide medications will result in more weight loss. But, side effects, cost, and other factors can play a role in your decision. The best choice is the one that fits your lifestyle, health needs, and goals.
How much weight can you lose with liraglutide vs. semaglutide?
- Liraglutide: In a 56-week study, people taking the highest dose of liraglutide 3 mg, the maximum approved dose for Saxenda®, lost an average of 8% of their body weight.
- Semaglutide: In a 68-week study, people taking injectable semaglutide at the highest dose of 2.4 mg, the maximum approved dose for Wegovy®, lost an average of 15% of their body weight.
In a separate 68-week study directly comparing liraglutide and semaglutide for weight loss, 3 mg liraglutide resulted in an average weight loss of 6.4% of body weight, while 2.4 mg semaglutide showed a 15.8% reduction.
So, while the overall weight loss percentage can vary, it’s evident that semaglutide-based medication leads to greater weight loss results than liraglutide-based medication.
Keep in mind that these numbers are averages for the maximum dose of each medication. This means taking other doses of liraglutide or semaglutide medications will lead to different results. Rybelsus, the semaglutide pill, is also absorbed differently, resulting in less weight loss than the injectable forms.
How long does it take to see weight loss results with liraglutide and semaglutide?
Most people begin seeing some progress within the first few weeks of starting liraglutide or semaglutide. Here’s what clinical research tells us about typical weight loss outcomes over time in terms of average percentage of weight lost with liraglutide 3 mg and semaglutide 2.4 mg:
After 3 months:
After 1 year:
Everyone’s timeline looks a little different. How your body responds, the food you choose, your activity level, and even sleep and stress will all play a role in how much weight you can lose. The key is to stay patient and committed to the process.
Who can take liraglutide or semaglutide for weight loss?
If you want to see if you are eligible for weight loss medication, see if you qualify for Noom Med or talk to your doctor. Here are some other criteria that determine eligibility:
You can take these medications if you have a:
- BMI of 30 or more
or
- Have a BMI of 27 or more and at least one weight-related condition, like high blood pressure or high cholesterol
*Saxenda® is also approved for kids aged 12 and up who weigh at least 132 pounds and have a 95th percentile or higher BMI for their age and sex.
Will you need to keep taking liraglutide or semaglutide forever?
While you’ll need to take liraglutide or semaglutide consistently for several months to see meaningful weight loss, that doesn’t mean you’ll be on them forever. But building healthy habits while on the medication can help you keep the weight off if you and your doctor decide it’s time to stop.
That’s where a program like Noom really shines. It helps you reshape how you eat, think, and move—so your progress isn’t just tied to a prescription. With the right tools and support, you can make changes that stick.
Some people may need to stay on GLP-1s longer than others, making a maintenance dose part of their lives. Your healthcare provider can help you decide what’s right for your body and goals, whether continuing the medication or transitioning off it.
Can you switch between liraglutide and semaglutide?
Yes, switching between liraglutide and semaglutide is possible, but it should always be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Both medications belong to the same class of drugs (GLP-1 receptor agonists) and have similar mechanisms, but they differ in how they’re taken, their strength, and how people respond to them. If you’re thinking about switching, your provider can help you safely transition by starting at the right dose and monitoring your progress.
Here are a few common reasons people choose to switch:
- Looking for better weight loss results – Injectable semaglutide has been shown to lead to more significant weight loss than liraglutide.
- Insurance or cost – Coverage can vary between medications, and switching might make more financial sense depending on your insurance plan.
- Preferring a weekly dose – Injectable semaglutide medications are taken once a week, with the exception of Rybelsus. Liraglutide medications require a daily injection.
- Lifestyle or convenience factors – Schedules, travel, or even personal preference, can make one medication more manageable than the other.
As always, partnering with your healthcare provider is key to ensuring the switch fits your goals and keeps you feeling your best.
Liraglutide vs. semaglutide: Costs and insurance
Cost is often a major consideration when deciding whether a liraglutide or semaglutide medication will work for you. These medications can be quite expensive, especially without insurance, with monthly prices typically ranging from $1,000 to $1,500. Here’s what you can expect to pay for each medication:
Liraglutide costs
Liraglutide is a daily medication. Each pen, regardless of brand, contains 18 mg of medication. How many pens you use per month will dictate what you pay.
| Brand name | Doses | Cost per month without insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Saxenda® | 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg, 2.4 mg, 3.0 mg | Up to $1,350 Learn more about the cost of Saxenda®. |
| Victoza® | 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg | 2-pen package: $544 3-pen package: $815 Learn more about the cost of Victoza®. |
| Generic liraglutide | 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8mg | 2-pen package:$253 to $509 3-pen package: $391 to $789 |
Semaglutide
The cost of semaglutide doesn’t increase by dose as with liraglutide.
| Brand name | Doses | Cost per month without insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Ozempic® | 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg | $1,350 Learn more about the cost of Ozempic®. |
| Wegovy® | 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, 2.4 mg | $1,350 $499; Through the NovoCare® Pharmacy Learn more about the cost of Wegovy®. |
| Rybelsus® | 3 mg, 7 mg, 14 mg | $998 Learn more about the cost of Rybelsus®. |
Does Medicare cover liraglutide or semaglutide?
As of 2025, Medicare doesn’t typically cover liraglutide or semaglutide when prescribed for weight loss, since weight loss drugs are not covered. Coverage may be available if the medication is prescribed for type 2 diabetes. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Liraglutide. Victoza® and generic liraglutide may be covered under Medicare Part D for type 2 diabetes.
- Semaglutide. Ozempic® and Rybelsus® might be covered under Medicare Part D if prescribed for diabetes.
Always check with your Medicare plan provider directly—some Medicare Advantage plans may offer additional wellness or obesity treatment benefits beyond what Original Medicare provides.
Liraglutide vs. semaglutide: Side effects and safety considerations
The side effects of liraglutide and semaglutide are typically mild and manageable. Most people experience them when they begin taking the medication as their bodies adjust. They can also return when the dose is increased.
Both drugs can also be associated in rare cases with serious conditions, and have a few warnings we’ll go through. Knowing what to expect is important so you can feel prepared and talk to your doctor about any concerns before beginning treatment.
Common side effects
Most people experience mild to moderate side effects with GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and liraglutide. These include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Stomach pain
- Fatigue
Serious side effects and safety warnings
Both liraglutide and semaglutide medications carry FDA warnings about the potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. Keep in mind, this risk has only been observed in animal studies.
Here are some other conditions that require immediate medical attention if experienced:
- Pancreatitis: Symptoms include severe abdominal pain that may spread to your back, with or without vomiting. Learn more about the risk of pancreatitis with semaglutide.
- Vision changes: Get immediate medical attention if you have sudden vision changes.
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): Symptoms include dizziness, shakiness, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, and jittery feelings. It is more common in people who are also taking diabetes medications. Read about semaglutide and hypoglycemia.
- Kidney problems: Dehydration from diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting can worsen kidney function. Go to the ER if you have reduced urination, swelling in the ankles or legs, fatigue, or shortness of breath.
- Gallbladder problems: Watch for upper abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, or clay-colored stools, which could indicate gallbladder issues.
- Allergic reaction: Symptoms include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, and a rapid heartbeat. Seek immediate emergency care if you suspect a reaction.
Liraglutide vs. semaglutide: Side-effect frequency
Here’s a quick look at how often people report common side effects at common doses of each medication:
| Medication (dose) | Nausea | Vomiting | Diarrhea | Constipation | Dyspepsia (indigestion) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wegovy® (semaglutide 2.4 mg) | 44% | 24% | 30% | 24% | 9% |
| Ozempic® (semaglutide 1.0 mg) | 20% | 9% | 9% | 3% | 2.7% |
| Rybelsus® (semaglutide 14 mg) | 20% | 8% | 10% | 5% | Less than 1% |
| Saxenda® (liraglutide 3 mg) | 39% | 16% | 21% | 19% | 10% |
| Victoza® (liraglutide 1.8mg) | 20% | 9% | 12% | 5% | 7% |
Liraglutide vs. semaglutide: Dosage and administration
Dosing is one of the biggest differences between these two medications: Liraglutide is injected daily, while semaglutide is typically injected once a week (except the oral version, Rybelsus®, which is taken daily as a tablet). For many, that difference alone can shape which medication feels more sustainable over time.
When it comes to how they are injected, the process is similar. You inject just under the skin of the thigh, stomach, or upper arm.
Since both medications follow a gradual dose-increase schedule, following your provider’s instructions is important. Also, keep each dose properly refrigerated until you’re ready to use it.
Here’s a quick look at the available doses for each medication:
| Brand name | Active ingredient | Available doses | How it’s taken |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saxenda® | Liraglutide | 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg, 2.4 mg, 3.0 mg | Daily injection Read more about taking Saxenda. |
| Victoza® | Liraglutide | 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg | Daily injection |
| Ozempic® | Semaglutide | 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg | Weekly injection Read more about taking Ozempic. |
| Wegovy® | Semaglutide | 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, 2.4 mg | Weekly injection Read more about taking Wegovy. |
| Rybelsus® | Semaglutide | 3 mg, 7 mg, 14 mg | Daily tablet |
No matter which option you choose, your healthcare provider will personalize your dosing plan based on your response and goals.
Choosing between liraglutide vs. semaglutide: Which is right for me?
Choosing between liraglutide and semaglutide depends on how often you want to take medication, your health history, and whether you’re managing weight loss or type 2 diabetes. Here’s a chart of everything discussed above to help you and your doctor make a decision:
| Active ingredient | Liraglutide | Semaglutide |
|---|---|---|
| Brand names and uses | Victoza®: Type 2 diabetes (off-label for weight loss) and to prevent heart disease Saxenda®: Weight loss and to prevent heart disease Generic liraglutide: Type 2 diabetes (off-label for weight loss) | Ozempic®: Type 2 diabetes (off-label for weight loss) Wegovy®: Weight loss and preventing heart disease Rybelsus®: Type 2 diabetes (off-label for weight loss) |
| Manufacturer | Victoza® and Saxenda®: Novo Nordisk Generic liraglutide: Teva Pharmaceuticals, Hikma Pharmaceuticals | Novo Nordisk |
| How it’s taken | Daily injection | Ozempic® and Wegovy®: Weekly injection Rybelsus®: Daily pill |
| Effectiveness | 9% average body weight loss after 12 months (3.0 mg dose) | 15% average body weight loss after 12 months (2.4 mg dose/Wegovy) 4% average body weight loss in 12 months with Rybelsus (14 mg dose) |
| Cost monthly | Victoza®: $544 (2-pen), $815 (3-pen) Saxenda®: $1,349 Generic liraglutide: $470 (2-pen), $700 (3-pen) *Price per month will depend on the dose. | Ozempic®: $998 Wegovy®: $1,350 (retail) NovoCare® Pharmacy: $499 Rybelsus®: $998 |
| Insurance coverage | Victoza®: Occasionally covered for type 2 diabetes, rarely for weight loss Saxenda®: Rarely covered for weight loss Generic liraglutide: Occasionally covered for type 2 diabetes, rarely for weight loss | Ozempic®: Occasionally covered for diabetes, but rarely for weight loss. Wegovy®: Rarely covered for weight loss. Rybelsus®: Occasionally covered for diabetes, but rarely for weight loss. |
| Side effects | Depending on dose, there are lower rates of diarrhea but higher rates of nausea and vomiting compared to semaglutide. Serious side effects are rare and similar across both. | Slightly lower dyspepsia rates than liraglutide; vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation are similar to liraglutide at lower doses. Serious side effects are rare and similar across both. |
Ultimately, the best medication is the one you’ll actually take—and stick with. Your doctor can help you weigh the pros and cons based on your health history, preferences, and lifestyle.
Alternatives to liraglutide and semaglutide for weight loss
As interest in GLP-1 medications for weight loss grows, so do the available options. Whether you’re just starting or thinking about switching medications, it’s worth knowing what else is out there.
Here are some common alternatives to consider:
| Medication | Brand names and uses | Cost per month (without insurance) | Effectiveness | How it’s taken |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tirzepatide – GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist | Zepbound®: weight loss and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) Mounjaro®: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss | Zepbound®: Pens: $1,087 Vials: $349 (2.5 mg) $499 (5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg) Learn more Mounjaro®: $1,080 Learn more | People lost an average of 21% of body weight at 72 weeks. | Zepbound® and Mounjaro®:Weekly injection |
Other weight loss medications
If GLP-1 receptor agonists aren’t suitable for you, other medications can be prescribed to help people lose weight. Let’s take a look at a few popular options.
| Medication | Brand names | Cost per month (without insurance) | Effectiveness | How it’s taken |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metformin (off-label weight loss) | Glucophage®, Fortamet®, Glumetza® | Generic: $4–$15 Brand name: $100–$500+ Learn more. | People lost an average of about 6% of their body weight over six months while taking metformin. | Pill taken up to two times daily |
| Phentermine | Lomaira®, Adipex-P® | $27-$100 | About 80% of people with a BMI of 30 or more lost at least 5% of their body weight in 6 months. | Daily pill |
| Diethylpropion | Tenuate®, Tenuate Dospan® | $40-$85 | People lost an average of 10% of their body weight in 6 months. | Pill taken one to three times daily |
| Naltrexone and bupropion | Contrave® | $600-$800 CurAccess™: $99 | People lost an average of 7 to 8% of their body weight in a year. | Pill taken up to twice daily |
| Orlistat | Xenical®, Alli® | $50-$800 | People in a study lost about 10% of body weight after taking Orlistat for 1 year. | Pill taken three times daily with meals. |
Liraglutide vs. semaglutide: Finding the right fit
Liraglutide and semaglutide can be helpful for people seeking a medical solution for weight loss, but they’re only part of the bigger picture. While semaglutide tends to lead to better results in clinical trials, real-life success often depends on pairing medication with meaningful changes to diet and exercise. That’s where personalized support can make all the difference.
If you’re thinking about starting liraglutide or semaglutide, talk to your healthcare provider, or see if you qualify for Noom Med. Our clinicians can help you find the right medication and prescribe it if needed. Then, they’ll be available through the app to create a plan that fits your lifestyle and help you manage any side effects.
Note: Ozempic®, Rybelsus®, Victoza®, Mounjaro®, and meformin are not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.
