If you’ve been hearing about “Ozempic weight loss” and “Saxenda pens,” you’re not alone. Here’s the simple guide to Saxenda vs Ozempic in Ontario.
What You Will Find Here:
Saxenda vs Ozempic for Weight Loss: Which Is Better?
Saxenda (liraglutide) is approved in Canada for chronic weight management with diet and physical activity, for adults with obesity (BMI 30 or higher) or overweight (BMI 27 or higher) plus at least one weight-related condition.
Ozempic (semaglutide) is approved in Canada for adults with Type 2 diabetes to improve blood-sugar control and for certain cardiovascular and kidney risk indications in Type 2 diabetes. Weight loss can happen, but it is not the main reason for taking Ozempic.
In clinic trials, liraglutide 3.0mg led to an average of 8 per cent weight reduction over 56 weeks, while semaglutide 2.4mg led to an average 14.9 per cent reduction over 68 weeks. Ozempic’s diabetes trials also report weight loss (about 4.8kg at 56 weeks with 1mg once weekly).
Ontario access to these medications differs by label. The Ontario Drug Benefit Formulary/Comparative Drug Index lists Ozempic as a Limited Use product with criteria tied to Type 2 diabetes, not “weight loss alone.”
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Saxenda vs Ozempic Dosage and How to Use Them
Saxenda is injected once daily and adjusted weekly, starting at 0.6mg daily and increasing to a 3.0mg daily maintenance dose. It is recommended to stop after 12 weeks on 3.0mg daily if you haven’t lost at least 5 per cent of your starting body weight.
Ozempic is injected once weekly starting at 0.25mg and then increasing to 0.5mg after four weeks, and if needed an increase to 1mg and then 2mg weekly.
Saxenda vs Ozempic Side Effects and Safety
There are many overlapping side effects between Saxenda and Ozempic. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation are common, especially during dose increases, and GI (gastrointestinal) symptoms are common reasons people stop treatment.
Both products carry a boxed warning about thyroid C-cell tumors and should not be used if you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2. They also shouldn’t be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. There are also warnings about possible gallbladder disease and pancreatitis if taking Ozempic.
Saxenda vs Ozempic Cost in Ontario
Totals of Saxenda and Ozempic can vary by markups, dispensing fees, and insurance.
A B.C. Ministry of Health academic detailing table estimated Saxenda’s approximate annual cost at about $5 600 at maintenance dosing (before markups and professional fees). For Ozempic, the formulary lists a unit price of $227.94, depending on the pen sizes which affects how long the pen lasts.
Coverage is separate from price. The Canadian Medical Association and Obesity Canada both note that public plans, most of the time, do not cover obesity medications, and Ozempic coverage in Ontario is linked to diabetes criteria.
Ogaei is an online telehealth platform where a virtual visit can help you with your weight management needs and wants.
➲Learn more about Ozempic cost in Ontario
The most asked questions by patients
Can You Switch from Saxenda to Ozempic?
Yes, you can switch from Saxenda to Ozempic, but only under a doctor’s supervision. Both are GLP-1 medications, but Ozempic is taken weekly and may be stronger. Your doctor will adjust the dose and monitor side effects during the transition.
Is Wegovy Better Than Saxenda or Ozempic?
Wegovy is generally more effective for weight loss because it uses a higher dose of semaglutide, specifically approved for obesity. However, the best option depends on your health, eligibility, and cost, so a doctor’s guidance is important.
Is Saxenda approved for weight loss in Canada?
Yes, it is indicated for chronic weight management in people who meet specific BMI and health criteria.
Is Ozempic approved for weight loss in Canada?
No, it’s indicated for Type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is the semaglutide product indicated for weight management.
Which tends to cause more weight loss?
In major trials, higher doses of semaglutide for obesity produced greater average weight loss than liraglutide. However, Ozempic is a different dose and injection than Wegovy.
What is the biggest day-to-day difference?
Saxenda is a daily injection, while Ozempic is a weekly injection.
How quickly should I expect results?
Expect progress to be assessed over weeks to months, not days.
