These new injections used for weight loss go hand in hand. They have a lot of similarities, and it may cause confusion about which is better and what to choose.
Let’s analyze the difference between Liraglutide and Semaglutide.
| Semaglutide | Liraglutide | |
| Dosing schedule | Once in 7 days | Everyday |
| The time when the highest dosage may be used | 4 months | 1 month |
| Half-life | Approximately 170 hours | Approximately 13 hours |
| A similarity to human GLP-1 | 94% | 97% |
| Entered the pharmaceutical market | In 2021 | In 2014 |
Now, we would like to discuss the key difference brought to light in a clinical trial that lasted for 68 weeks. The results of this study show that in participants with a mean age of 49, mean body weight of 104,5 kg, and mean body mass index of 37.5, the mean weight change from baseline was:
- 15.8% with Semaglutide.
- 6.4% with Liraglutide.
It should be mentioned that both medications show clinically significant weight loss and are approved for obesity treatment. However, if you are aiming at losing 20% of your initial body weight, the chances of success on Semaglutide are six times higher than on Liraglutide (38.5% vs. 6.0%).
Do these drugs have anything in common?
Yes, and quite much:
- Help to decrease body weight and the level of waist circumference.
- Decrease food consumption due to appetite suppression.
- Classified among GLP-1 RA group of drugs.
- The liquid solution is delivered in autoinjectors.
- Have the same areas for injection (under the skin of your stomach, thighs, or upper arm).
- Comparable adverse effects profile.
We know that both medicines can suppress appetite and decrease the body’s fat level. How much weight you will lose depends on the following factors:
- The dose you take.
- Your initial body weight.
- The duration of a treatment course.
- Your diet.
- The weekly schedule of physical activity.
Nevertheless, comparing the subcutaneous injections can provide insight into the possible results of the treatment. Choose your medication, follow the weight loss program, and you will be able to lose more weight faster than you could imagine.
Semaglutide vs Liraglutide: Conclusion
The critical difference between Liraglutide and Semaglutide is the dosing schedule. The former is injected once a day, while the latter – once a week. However, this may not be the essential difference.
To compare the efficacy of various obesity treatment methods, you must compare clinical trial results. It will give you an evidence-based understanding of the situation. Based on the data received, we may conclude that Semaglutide is better than Liraglutide when it comes to weight loss.
