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Saxenda vs. Mounjaro

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Liraglutide (Saxenda) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) are both medications used to help manage weight and blood sugar levels, but they have different primary uses and mechanisms of action. Both medications are injected under the skin and are not controlled substances. Liraglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist approved for weight management in adults and children with a high body mass index (BMI). Tirzepatide is a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for Type 2 diabetes management. Saxenda is injected daily, whereas Mounjaro is injected weekly. Both medications are available as a brand-name medication only. Common side effects of both medications include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Both medications carry a risk of thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, and gallbladder problems, and they should not be used if you have a personal or family history of certain thyroid cancers. Mounjaro can also affect birth control effectiveness, so additional precautions may be needed.

Saxenda

(liraglutide)

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Mounjaro

(tirzepatide)

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Summary for Saxenda

Prescription only

Saxenda (generic name liraglutide) is a once-daily injection given under the skin that's used for weight loss. It's approved for certain adults and children ages 12 years and up. And it works best when used along with a balanced diet and exercise. This prescription weight loss medication is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist. It works by slowing down your gut and making you feel less hungry. Saxenda (liraglutide) comes as a prefilled pen you use to inject your dose. Some common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Indications for Saxenda

Pros and Cons for Saxenda

Pros

  • Can help you lose weight in addition to balanced nutrition and exercise
  • Can take with or without food, at any time during the day
  • Okay for children 12 years of age and older weighing more than 132 lbs with obesity

Cons

  • Must inject once a day
  • Can cause stomach upset
  • Doesn't come with pen needles (must get them separately)

Common Side Effects for Saxenda

Adults:

  • Nausea (39%)
  • Diarrhea (21%)
  • Constipation (19%)
  • Vomiting (16%)
  • Injection site reaction (e.g., redness, itching, rash; 14%)
  • Headache (14%)
  • Low blood sugar in people with Type 2 diabetes (13%)
  • Indigestion (10%)

Children 12 years and up:

  • Nausea (42%)
  • Vomiting (34%)
  • Diarrhea (22%)
  • Low blood sugar (15%)
  • Stomach inflammation (13%)
  • Dizziness (10%)

Warnings for Saxenda

  • Possible risk for thyroid cancer
  • Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
  • Gallbladder problems
  • Low blood sugar
  • Faster heart rate
  • Severe stomach side effects
  • Kidney problems due to dehydration
  • Allergic reactions
  • Lung problems during anesthesia or deep sedation

Summary for Mounjaro

Prescription only

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a prescription injection used to improve blood sugar control in people 10 years and older with Type 2 diabetes. It works best when you also follow a nutritious diet and exercise regularly. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) belongs to the drug class called GIP and GLP-1 agonists. The dosage is convenient because it's injected under the skin once a week. Some common side effects of Mounjaro (tirzepatide) include nausea and diarrhea. It can also lower your appetite, which might lead to some weight loss.

Indications for Mounjaro

Pros and Cons for Mounjaro

Pros

  • Given once weekly
  • Can lower A1C by an average of up to 2.3% in about 9 months
  • Has different forms some people can choose from (vials, single-dose injectable pens, multi-dose KwikPens)
  • Can use if you have liver or kidney problems

Cons

  • Must give as an injection given under the skin
  • Can cause unpleasant side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
  • Takes time to reach a dose that works well
  • Might not be safe during pregnancy

Common Side Effects for Mounjaro

  • Nausea (12-18%)
  • Diarrhea (12-17%)
  • Low appetite (5-11%)
  • Vomiting (5-9%)
  • Indigestion (5-8%)
  • Constipation (6-7%)
  • Stomach pain (5-6%)

Warnings for Mounjaro

  • Risk of thyroid cancer
  • Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
  • Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when used with other diabetes medications
  • Allergic reactions
  • Stomach side effects
  • Kidney damage due to dehydration
  • Eye problems in people with diabetic retinopathy
  • Gallbladder problems
  • Lung problems during general anesthesia or deep sedation
  • Don't share Mounjaro KwikPens with anyone

Prices with our coupons for Saxenda vs. Mounjaro

Price Card Drug Icon
Liraglutide (Saxenda)1 carton / 5 pens of 18mg/3ml
$372.45$1,041.55
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Mounjaro1 carton / 4 pens of 2.5mg/0.5ml
$1,056.63$1,335.00
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