If you’re considering medical support for weight loss, you’ve likely come across two of the most talked-about options: Saxenda and Ozempic. Both are injectable medications designed to aid weight loss, and while they work in slightly different ways, they can be highly effective when combined with lifestyle changes.
At Mendus Pharmacy, we frequently support patients navigating this decision. In this guide, we’ll break down Saxenda vs Ozempic to help you understand how they compare — including how they work, how they’re taken, their side effects, effectiveness, and most importantly, their availability here in the UK.
How Do They Work?
Both Saxenda and Ozempic help reduce appetite and support weight loss, but they do so using different active ingredients and mechanisms.
Saxenda contains liraglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics a natural hormone involved in appetite control. It slows stomach emptying and helps you feel fuller for longer.
Ozempic contains semaglutide, also a GLP-1 receptor agonist, but it has a longer half-life, meaning it can be injected once weekly instead of daily.
Both medications influence appetite and food intake, not metabolism — so they’re most effective when paired with a healthy diet and regular physical activity.
How Are They Taken?
Saxenda is a daily injection. You start with a low dose and gradually increase over a few weeks to reduce the risk of side effects.
Ozempic is a weekly injection, which some people find more convenient.
The choice often comes down to personal preference: some patients prefer the simplicity of a once-weekly injection, while others find that a daily routine helps them stay engaged with their weight loss journey.
Which Is Available in the UK for Weight Loss?
Here’s where a major difference lies — and one of the reasons we favour Saxenda.
Saxenda is currently licensed and readily available in the UK specifically for weight loss. It can be prescribed privately to individuals with a BMI over 30, or over 27 with weight-related health concerns.
Ozempic, however, is not officially licensed in the UK for weight loss — it is primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes. While semaglutide is available under a different name (Wegovy) for weight loss, supply shortages and NHS restrictions have made it harder to access privately.
At Mendus Pharmacy, we have consistent access to Saxenda and can support your weight loss journey from start to finish, with pharmacist-led care and regular reviews.
Effectiveness: Which Works Better?
Both Saxenda and Ozempic have been shown to support significant weight loss when used alongside diet and exercise. Some clinical studies suggest that semaglutide (Ozempic’s active ingredient) may result in slightly greater weight loss, but the difference is often small when lifestyle changes are consistent.
What’s more important is:
Your ability to tolerate the medication
How easily you can adhere to the injection schedule
Which product is accessible to you now
For many UK patients, Saxenda remains the most practical and effective option, given its wide availability and licensing for weight loss.
Side Effects: What to Expect
Because both drugs are from the same GLP-1 family, their side effect profiles are quite similar.
Common side effects include:
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhoea or constipation
Headache
Dizziness
These effects are usually mild and temporary, often resolving within the first few weeks as your body adjusts. Starting at a low dose and gradually increasing (as with Saxenda) helps reduce severity.
In rare cases, both medications may cause pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, or kidney problems. That’s why a medical consultation is essential before starting treatment.
Who Should Avoid These Medications?
Neither medication is suitable for:
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
People with a history of certain cancers (especially thyroid or endocrine-related)
Those with severe gastrointestinal disorders
Always speak with a pharmacist or healthcare provider to review your medical history and confirm your suitability.
Our Verdict: Choose Saxenda for Accessible Support
When it comes to Saxenda vs Ozempic, the choice may seem complicated — but availability is often the deciding factor in the UK.
While both medications are effective and safe for many people, Saxenda is currently the more accessible and licenced option for weight loss in the UK. At Mendus Pharmacy, we stock Saxenda and provide complete support, from prescription to ongoing review, to help you achieve your health goals safely.
Get Started with Mendus Pharmacy
If you’re ready to explore medical support for weight loss, book a consultation with our pharmacist today. We’ll guide you through the pros and cons of Saxenda vs Ozempic, assess your suitability, and create a personalised weight loss plan that puts your health first.
Get in touch to book your appointment and let’s take the next step together — safely, confidently, and with expert support.