Comparing Saxenda vs Zepbound

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Trying to lose weight by following restrictive diets and super intense workouts is hardly ever successful and almost impossible to sustain long-term. People who have struggled with their weight and obesity for several years have less than a 1% chance of reaching a healthy weight without medical help. Until fairly recently, bariatric surgery was the only medical intervention available, but today we are fortunate to have much less invasive options like GLP-1 weight loss injections.

These medications were originally created and formulated to help people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar. During the studies that help new drugs gain FDA approval, it was noted that many participants using these GLP-1 medications began losing weight as an additional benefit. Since that time, several GLP-1 medications have gained approval by the FDA for weight management.

Today we are going to talk about two of these GLP-1 medications. Saxenda, which was the first to ever be approved for weight loss, and the most recently approved Zepbound. We will compare Saxenda vs Zepbound and discuss how they work, what makes them different, their weight loss results, and common side effects to help you decide which one may be right for you.

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What Are Saxenda and Zepbound?

Both Zepbound and Saxenda are prescription medications that are administered through subcutaneous injection under your skin. They are both designed to help you lose weight, but the way they work is slightly different. Saxenda is the name brand for the prescription medication liraglutide, and Zepbound is the name brand for tirzepatide.

When you eat, your body releases special hormones that are responsible for helping your digestive process run smoothly and keep your blood sugar under control. One of these hormones is called glucagon-like peptide-1, or more commonly known as GLP-1. This hormone slows down how fast your stomach empties, which keeps you feeling full, and it sends signals to your brain that it is time to stop eating.

Both Saxenda and Zepbound copy your natural GLP-1 hormone, but Zepbound also copies another one of your natural hormones called glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), which helps your body burn calories for energy instead of storing them as fat. Zepbound may be a better choice if you have a significant amount of weight to lose.

Saxenda vs Zepbound Side Effects

Like all medications, both Saxenda and Zepbound cause side effects, but most of these are mild and temporary. Most of the common side effects normally occur during the first few weeks when you begin using the medication and can reoccur whenever your dose is increased and as your body gets used to the medication.

Many of the side effects of Saxenda vs Zepbound are the same and include:

  • Nausea;
  • Diarrhea;
  • Constipation;
  • Vomiting;
  • Headache;
  • Fatigue;
  • Dizziness;
  • Stomach discomfort;
  • Redness or irritation at the injection site.

Rare but More Serious Saxenda vs Zepbound Side Effects

In rare cases, both medications can cause more serious side effects, which include:

  • Pancreatitis;
  • Gallbladder problems;
  • Kidney complications;
  • Changes in vision;
  • Allergic reactions;
  • Possible thyroid tumors (observed in animal studies).

Because Zepbound helps enhance your metabolism by mimicking two different hormones instead of one, it may affect your digestive system more strongly. Therefore, certain individuals should be monitored more closely while using these medications.

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Are These Medications a Good Fit for Everyone?

No, GLP-1 medications are not a good choice for everyone, and they are not recommended for individuals who:

  • Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or desire to become pregnant in the near future;
  • Have a personal or family history of MTC (medullary thyroid cancer) or MEN2 (multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2);
  • Have chronic issues with their kidneys or pancreas;
  • Individuals with serious gastrointestinal problems;
  • Are allergic to any of the ingredients in the medication.

Your medical history will be reviewed before any GLP-1 medication is prescribed.

Zepbound vs Saxenda Weight Loss Potential

Both of these medications are designed to be used with a low-calorie diet and healthy lifestyle changes, and those who use it appropriately can lose a significant amount of weight.

One of the most common questions we are asked is, “Does Zepbound work better than Saxenda?” The answer depends on the person and their circumstances, but research shows that individuals using Saxenda at the highest strength can lose anywhere between 8% and 10% of their total body weight after one year. Individuals who take Zepbound lose an average of between 15% and 18% of their total body weight in the same time frame.

These results show that both can lead to significant weight loss, but Zepbound has consistently led to greater total weight loss for many people.

How Does Administration and Dosing Differ When Comparing Zepbound vs Saxenda?

Both medications are given by injection, but they are administered on a different schedule.

Saxenda

Saxenda injections are administered once a day. Doses increase gradually each week until you reach the highest dose, while Zepbound doses remain the same for four consecutive weeks before they are increased.

    • Week 1: 0.6 mg;
    • Week 2: 1.2 mg;
    • Week 3: 1.8 mg;
    • Week 4: 2.4 mg;
    • Week 5 and beyond: 3.0 mg.

Zepbound

Zepbound injections are administered once a week. Individuals remain on the same dose for four weeks, and the strength is increased monthly:

    • Month 1: 2.5 mg;
    • Month 2: 5 mg;
    • Month 3: 7.5 mg;
    • Month 4: 10 mg;
    • Month 5: 12.5 mg;
    • Month 6: 15 mg.

Many people find Zepbound more effective and convenient because it has a longer dosing interval and involves fewer injections. Saxenda requires daily injections but adjustments to your dose can be made more quickly. Everyone will respond to these medications differently, so it is important to work with a trained professional so they can help guide your dosage, side effects, and weight loss results.

What Is Zepbound vs Saxenda Cost?

The cost of these medications can vary depending on your geographical location, the pharmacy filling your prescription, potential insurance coverage, and any manufacturer savings programs you may be eligible for. Typically, GLP-1 medications that are prescribed only for weight loss do not qualify for insurance coverage, and users must pay out of pocket.

Currently, the average retail prices found at many U.S. pharmacies for these medications are as follows:

  • Zepbound (tirzepatide) starts around $1,100 per month.
  • Saxenda (liraglutide) starts around $1,350 per month.

How Do I Know Which Is a Better Choice for Me?

The right medication for you will depend on your health, your weight loss goals, and how your body responds to the medication. Zepbound may lead to greater weight loss, but because it mimics two hormones, it may cause more intense side effects for some people. If the side effects are too severe, it may cause them to discontinue use of the medication, and their weight loss journey will stall out. In these cases, switching medications to Saxenda may allow them to get the weight loss benefits from the medicine without having such strong side effects.

Some people may like only having to administer an injection one time a week rather than every day, which would make Zepbound a more preferable option. The good news is that you have choices for medical weight loss that do not require surgery.

Dr. Angelina Postoev and her team at MySlimMed can help you decide which weight loss option is best for you. They will review your medical background, your previous weight loss experiences, and any underlying conditions you may be dealing with to create a personalized plan that will help you lose weight safely as well as maintain your results.

Where Can I Get a Prescription for a GLP-1 Medication?

If you are tired of struggling on your own to lose weight with special diets and extensive workout sessions that never seem to work, contact MySlimMed today and learn how medical weight loss assistance can help you finally reach your goals.

Dr. Angelina Postoev and her knowledgeable team at MySlimMed specialize in creating personalized plans of care that are proven to help you lose weight and keep it off. They can help you determine if a GLP-1 medication is a good fit for you, and if not, they will help you find another safe and effective option that will help you succeed. Set up your consultation today to take control of your health through sustainable, medically guided weight loss.

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