Mounjaro and Saxenda are both injectable medications that help with weight loss. But they use different drugs and very different dosing schedules.
Quick Comparison
| Mounjaro | Saxenda | |
|---|---|---|
| Active drug | Tirzepatide | Liraglutide |
| Drug class | Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist | GLP-1 agonist |
| FDA approval | Type 2 diabetes | Weight management |
| Injection frequency | Once weekly | Once daily |
| Dose range | 2.5 mg – 15 mg | 0.6 mg – 3 mg |
| Maker | Eli Lilly | Novo Nordisk |
How They Work
Mounjaro mimics two hormones (GLP-1 and GIP) that signal fullness and slow digestion.
Saxenda mimics one hormone (GLP-1) that does the same thing.
Two hormones vs one is a big part of why Mounjaro tends to produce stronger results.
Weight Loss Results
- Mounjaro: ~15-22% body weight loss at max dose
- Saxenda: ~5-8% body weight loss at max dose
Mounjaro produces significantly more weight loss on average.
Side Effects
Both cause similar GLP-1 side effects:
- Nausea (most common)
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Decreased appetite
- Stomach pain
- Fatigue
- Headache
Side effects are worst when you start and after dose increases. Most people adjust within a few weeks.
Convenience
- Mounjaro: One injection per week
- Saxenda: One injection per day
Weekly is clearly more convenient.
Cost
Mounjaro: ~$1,060/month Saxenda: ~$1,300-1,400/month
Mounjaro is cheaper at list price and produces more weight loss. But your insurance coverage will likely decide which one you can actually get.
Who Should Choose Mounjaro?
- You want stronger weight loss results
- You want weekly injections
- Your insurance covers it
- You're starting fresh with GLP-1 treatment
Who Should Choose Saxenda?
- Your insurance covers it and not Mounjaro
- You've used it before and it works
- You prefer daily dosing for more control
- You can't tolerate tirzepatide
Bottom Line
Mounjaro is newer, weekly, cheaper, and produces much more weight loss. Saxenda is older, daily, and still works for many people.
The best choice depends on your insurance, your health history, and what your doctor recommends.
Work with your healthcare provider to determine which medication is right for you. Individual results and experiences vary.
