Saxenda vs Victoza - are they the same?

Measuring tape

Saxenda and Victoza are brand for the medicine Liraglutide which can be used to manage type 2 diabetes and weight.

Both are prescription medicines that are administered via an injection.

Both Saxenda and Victoza may both be the same medicine, but they are used in different doses to treat different conditions.

It may be confusing that they both contain Liraglutide, but cannot be used for the same purpose.

Don't worry, in this guide, we'll tell you everything you need to know about Saxenda and Victoza, how they are used and what they are used for.

What is Saxenda

Saxenda is a Liraglutide injection that can be used as a treatment option for managing weight.

It is administered via injection and is only available with a prescription from your doctor.

Saxenda may be recommended by a doctor if you have excess (BMI >27) or if you have weight-related medical problems or are obese (BMI >30).

Our bodies create a hormone known as glucagon-like-peptide (GLP-1), which helps to regulate feelings of hunger.

Saxenda works in a similar way to this appetite hormone by regulating your appetite, which can result in you consuming fewer calories and lose weight.

What is Victoza

Victoza is a non-insulin diabetes medication that is used with a healthy diet and exercise routine to improve blood sugar in adults and children aged over 10 with type 2 diabetes.

Similar to Saxenda, Victoza mimics the effects of the GLP-1 hormone.

It helps the pancreas to produce more insulin and prevents your liver from creating too much sugar.

Victoza also slows down the process of food leaving the stomach which can help to control your blood sugar level after meals.

Again, Victoza is presented as an injection and is only available on prescription.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin or the body's cells don't react to insulin.

If you have type 2 diabetes the lack of insulin causes glucose to stay in the blood and isn't used as fuel for energy.

Typical symptoms of type 2 diabetes include:

  • Feeling very thirsty
  • Weeing more often than normal
  • Fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Blurred vision
  • Frequent thrush infection

 

Can Saxenda and Victoza be used together?

Both Saxenda and Victoza have the same active ingredient, liraglutide and they should not be used together.

You shouldn't use Saxenda or Victoza with any other GLP-1 receptor agonist medicines either.

If isn't known if Saxenda or Victoza can be used with other prescription, over-the-counter medicines or herbal weight-loss products, so it is important that you let your doctor know if you are taking any other medications during our consultation.

If you're looking to lose weight and control type 2 diabetes, speak to your doctor about your options.

What are the main differences between Saxenda and Victoza

The main difference between Saxenda and Victoza is what they are used for.

The purpose of Victoza is to help control type 2 diabetes, whereas Saxenda can be used as a weight-loss medication.

It is possible to lose some weight whilst using Victoza, but this isn't its main use.

You cannot use them together or interchangeably.

How can I buy Saxenda?

Both Saxenda and Victoza are not available to receive without a prescription.

If you are looking for medication to lose weight or manage your type 2 diabetes, book an appointment with your doctor.

Your doctor will look at your lifestyle, diet and medical history to identify whether this medication is suitable for you.

If your doctor determines that Saxenda or Victoza is suitable for you, they will give you a prescription for the medication.

As well as providing you with a prescription, your doctor may put you on a diet and exercise plan.

Speak to one of our doctors today to discover if Saxenda is suitable for you.

Olivia Appleton - Medical Content Writer
James O'Loan - CEO & Superintendent Pharmacist
James O'Loan , CEO & Superintendent Pharmacist on 17 September 2021
© 2024 Chemist4U. Innox Trading Ltd, 35-37 Greenhey Place, Skelmersdale, Lancashire, WN8 9SA, GB. All rights reserved. Registered and regulated UK pharmacy with the GPhC (registered premises 9011784). Registered in England No. 07262043 | VAT Registration No. GB140138454