Victoza and Ozempic are GLP-1 agonists used for two main purposes:
- Lower blood sugar levels for people with type 2 diabetes;
- Lower the risk of some cardiovascular problems for adults with type 2 diabetes.
TGA approved both drugs for these purposes. Both drugs have the same manufacturer — Novo Nordisk.
Consider the similarities and differences between these two drugs:
| Victoza | Ozempic | |
| Active ingredient | Liraglutide | Semaglutide |
| Other brands | Saxenda | Rybelsus, Wegovy |
| Dosage form | Subcutaneous injections, pre-filled injection pens | |
| Drug class | Incretin mimetics | |
| Generic availability | No | |
| Administration frequency | Once a day | Once a week |
| Half-life period | 13 hours | 168 hours |
| Dosage |
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| Treatment duration | Not exactly established | |
| Intended for | Adults and children of 10 years and older | Adults over 18 years old |
| Use with caution for people with the following diseases |
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| Complex treatment | To enhance the effect, they combine them with diet and exercise | |
| Type 1 diabetes treatment | No | |
| Most frequent common side effects | Problems with the gastrointestinal tract:
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| Specific side effects |
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| Use during pregnancy | Not recommended | |
| Compatibility with alcohol | It is recommended to exclude alcohol for the entire period of treatment | |
What medicine is more effective?
According to a study published in 2019, Ozempic was more effective than Victoza in reducing HbA1C and weight. However, participants in this meta-analysis who took Ozempic experienced more stomach-related side effects than people who took Victoza.
However, only a doctor who can take into account the entire history and characteristics of your body can prescribe the most suitable medicine for you.
Conclusion
The action of Victoza and Ozempic is similar in many aspects.
They differ by:
- Active ingredient;
- Age of people for whom the use is approved;
- Frequency of use;
- Dosage;
- Some side effects.
In a comparative analysis, Ozempic showed higher effectiveness. However, the number and frequency of side effects were also higher.
