Key takeaways
Saxagliptin (Onglyza) and liraglutide (Victoza) are both medications used to treat Type 2 diabetes, but they have some key differences. Saxagliptin is dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor taken orally once a day, while liraglutide is a glucogon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist that you inject under the skin daily. Saxagliptin helps control blood sugar by blocking a protein that breaks down insulin, whereas liraglutide works by telling your body to release more insulin and slowing down digestion. Saxagliptin is available in a generic form, but Victoza does not have a generic version. Common side effects of saxagliptin include infections and headaches, while liraglutide can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Additionally, liraglutide can help lower the risk of heart-related problems in certain adults with Type 2 diabetes, a benefit not mentioned for saxagliptin.
