Blog
Wegovy vs Saxenda in Europe: 5 Key Differences Between These Weight-Loss Injections
Jul
Across Europe, the demand for prescription weight-loss injections has exploded — and two names continue to dominate the conversation: Wegovy vs Saxenda.
Both are GLP-1 receptor agonists developed by Novo Nordisk and authorised by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for weight management. However, choosing the right one can be tricky. From injection frequency to cardiovascular benefits, there are clear differences worth knowing — especially if you live in the UK, Ireland, Germany, France, the Netherlands, or other EU countries where availability and prescribing rules may differ.
Below, we explore 5 key differences between Wegovy vs Saxenda, with a special focus on the European context.
1. Wegovy vs Saxenda: Wegovy Wins on Convenience
In Europe, Wegovy is prescribed as a once-weekly injection, while Saxenda requires daily administration.
| Medication | Starting Dose | Target Dose | Injection Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saxenda | 0.6 mg | 3.0 mg | Daily |
| Wegovy | 0.25 mg | 2.4 mg | Weekly |
Patients across the EU — particularly in countries with busy public healthcare systems — often prefer Wegovy for its ease of use. Less frequent injections can mean better adherence and fewer disruptions to daily life.
In the UK NHS and private sector, weekly injections have also been shown to increase long-term patient compliance.
2. Weight Loss Outcomes: Wegovy Delivers More in Clinical Trials
Clinical trials conducted both globally and in Europe (including STEP trials) have consistently shown that Wegovy leads to greater weight loss than Saxenda.
- Wegovy: Average weight loss of 15% to 17%
- Saxenda: Average weight loss of 6% to 8%
In a landmark European study comparing the two Wegovy vs Saxenda, Wegovy outperformed Saxenda by nearly double in total weight lost over 68 weeks. This makes Wegovy the preferred option for individuals with obesity-related health risks, such as pre-diabetes or PCOS.
3. Side Effects in European Populations
Both medications share similar side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhoea. But according to post-marketing surveillance in Europe, Saxenda users in the UK and Germany reported higher discontinuation rates due to side effects like:
- Gallbladder issues
- Injection site pain
- Insomnia
On the other hand, Wegovy users reported fewer local site reactions and were more likely to remain on therapy long term, even if mild nausea occurred early on.
In countries like France and Italy, doctors often recommend starting either treatment with a lower dose and slowly titrating to reduce GI side effects — something more easily managed with Wegovy’s once-weekly escalation schedule.
4. Prescription Process and Availability in Europe (Wegovy vs Saxenda)
Availability and regulation vary across the continent:
| Country | Saxenda Status | Wegovy Status |
|---|---|---|
| UK | NHS & Private | Approved (private only in 2025 rollout) |
| Germany | Widely available | Available via prescription |
| France | Reimbursed partially | Limited access (2025 expansion planned) |
| Ireland | Private & public | Approved but short supply |
| Netherlands | Available via GP | High demand, restricted rollout |
In countries like the UK, Wegovy has been made available under a two-year pilot NHS scheme targeting people with BMI over 35 and comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes.
Meanwhile, Saxenda remains more widely stocked in EU pharmacies, often with reimbursement options in countries like Belgium and Denmark, making it a fallback if Wegovy access is delayed.
5. Heart Health Benefits: Wegovy’s Edge in Cardiovascular Protection
One major EMA-approved distinction is that Wegovy is indicated to reduce cardiovascular risk in overweight or obese adults with established heart disease.
In the SELECT trial (conducted across Europe and globally), semaglutide (Wegovy) reduced major cardiovascular events — like heart attacks and strokes — by 20%.
Saxenda does not carry a similar cardiovascular claim and has not shown significant benefit in this area.
This is especially critical for patients in high-risk European populations, such as those with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome, where early intervention could mean a longer, healthier life.
Other Factors for European Patients
Affordability & Cost
Prices can vary by country and prescription channel:
- UK (Private): Wegovy costs around £199 to £299/month, Saxenda £75–£150/month
- Germany: Insurance rarely covers either, but private patients pay ~€150–€350
- France: Partial reimbursement is available for Saxenda, Wegovy not yet widely covered
- Online Pharmacies like Care Circle Pharmacy in the UK offer access to both, with prescription support and home delivery.
Pen Design
- Wegovy: Disposable, prefilled pens — no needle attachment required
- Saxenda: Multi-dose pens with manual dosing and separate needle purchases
Wegovy’s pen is often preferred for its ease-of-use, especially for elderly or mobility-impaired patients across Europe.
Can I Switch From Saxenda to Wegovy in Europe?
Yes — many patients begin treatment with Saxenda and transition to Wegovy once:
- Wegovy becomes available in their country
- Insurance covers the new prescription
- Their prescriber recommends it for enhanced results
Note: Dose transitions must be clinician-managed to avoid side effects or underdosing. Some EU health systems (e.g. the NHS and HSE in Ireland) are offering structured GLP-1 transition programmes.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose in Europe? (Wegovy vs Saxenda)
| Factor | Wegovy | Saxenda |
|---|---|---|
| Injection Frequency | Weekly | Daily |
| Weight Loss Results | ~15–17% | ~6–8% |
| Heart Health Benefit | ✅ | ❌ |
| EMA Approval | ✅ | ✅ |
| NHS Access (UK) | Limited pilot | Broad |
| Private Access | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ease of Use | ✅ | ❌ |
In summary:
- Wegovy is more effective, convenient, and now comes with cardiovascular benefits — making it the first-line treatment in most European weight management programmes.
- Saxenda remains a reliable alternative where Wegovy is unavailable or cost-prohibitive, and is currently better integrated into national formularies in some EU nations.
Where to Buy in Europe (Wegovy vs Saxenda)
For trusted weight-loss prescriptions like Wegovy and Saxenda, fast delivery, and UK-regulated pharmacy support, visit:
👉 Care Circle Pharmacy – Your Trusted Online Pharmacy
