Saxenda
Saxenda (liraglutide) is the daily-injection GLP-1 for weight loss — older than Wegovy but still useful when weekly semaglutide isn't tolerated.
- Manufacturer
- Novo Nordisk
- Drug class
- GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Dose range
- 0.6 mg → 3.0 mg daily
- Average monthly cost
- $1,349 without insurance · $25–$75 with most commercial plans
- Insurance covered
- Often, with prior authorization
Overview
Saxenda is liraglutide dosed at 3.0 mg daily for chronic weight management. It was the first GLP-1 approved for obesity (2014) and remains a useful option for patients who can't tolerate weekly semaglutide or tirzepatide, or who need a shorter-acting medication for tighter side-effect control. Expected weight loss is 5–10% of body weight — meaningfully less than Wegovy or Zepbound.
How it works
Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist with a 13-hour half-life. The shorter duration means daily dosing but also means side effects clear faster if a dose is skipped.
Side effects
- Nausea, especially during the 5-week dose escalation
- Diarrhea, constipation, vomiting
- Injection-site reactions
- Rare: pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, thyroid C-cell tumors (boxed warning)
Who should consider Saxenda
Adults with BMI ≥ 30 (or ≥ 27 with comorbidities) who can't tolerate weekly GLP-1s, prefer a daily routine, or need a shorter-acting agent for surgical or pregnancy planning windows.
Telehealth programs that prescribe Saxenda
Editorial only — not medical advice. Drug pricing and availability change frequently; verify with the prescribing program before relying on any figure on this page.