Last Updated January 31, 2024

 January 31, 2024

Curious about semaglutide vs. liraglutide peptide therapy for weight loss?

If so, read on for an in-depth breakdown of the similarities and differences between the two in the context of weight management, including:

  • What is semaglutide?
  • What is liraglutide?
  • Benefits
  • Dosages
  • Safety

With this comprehensive guide, researchers will learn what needs to be known regarding how to select the best weight loss peptide for research.

Plus, we will name the top online source for buying premium semaglutide and liraglutide as chosen by our research peptide experts.

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What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1-RA) that was initially developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). It has also shown remarkable effects in promoting weight loss in overweight individuals without diabetes [1].

Semaglutide mimics the action of a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1, which plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite [2]. By activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain, semaglutide helps to control hunger and increases feelings of fullness [3].

Clinical trials have demonstrated that obese and overweight volunteers who took semaglutide experienced significant weight reduction compared to those who received placebo, yet undertook lifestyle interventions. Semaglutide achieves its weight loss effect mainly by suppressing the appetite, leading to reduced caloric intake [4].

Studies show that semaglutide also impacts metabolic processes. Semaglutide improves glycemic control by enhancing insulin sensitivity and reducing glucose production in the liver. This promotes thermogenesis, further contributing to weight loss and improvements in body composition [2].

Furthermore, semaglutide has been shown to have positive effects on cardiovascular health, reducing the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in individuals with type 2 diabetes [5].

Semaglutide is the only drug in its class that holds approval in both subcutaneous and oral formulations. It is currently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat type 2 diabetes and as a weight management tool in certain populations, as well as for the reduction of cardiovascular risk in diabetic and cardiovascular disease patients [5].


Semaglutide vs Liraglutide


What is Liraglutide?

Liraglutide is another GLP-1-RA that was developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It also has evidenced weight loss benefits in non-diabetic individuals with obesity [6].

Like semaglutide, liraglutide functions by mimicking the actions of GLP-1, activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain to control hunger and increase feelings of fullness [7].

The weight loss effects of liraglutide have been demonstrated in various clinical trials. Individuals who took liraglutide experienced notable reductions in body weight compared to those who received a placebo [6, 7].
In addition to its impact on weight, liraglutide influences several other metabolic factors. It improves insulin sensitivity, which helps the body better utilize glucose. It also reduces glucose production in the liver, leading to decreased blood sugar levels. Furthermore, liraglutide promotes the burning of fat for energy, contributing to weight loss [8].

By improving glycemic control, reducing insulin resistance, and promoting fat burning, liraglutide offers a comprehensive approach to weight management [8, 9]. Approved by the FDA in 2010 to treat T2D, liraglutide has since been authorized as a weight management tool in certain non-diabetic populations [6, 7].


Comparing Semaglutide and Liraglutide Benefits

Semaglutide and liraglutide, both belonging to the same class of drugs, have demonstrated significant benefits in weight loss and the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Let’s explore the benefits of these medications in more detail.

Weight Loss

Both semaglutide and liraglutide work by activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain, which helps to:

  • Suppress appetite
  • Increase satiety
  • Decrease caloric intake
  • Increase thermogenesis

In clinical studies, individuals with obesity or overweight who took either medication experienced significant reductions in body weight compared to those who received a placebo [2, 10].

However, comparative clinical trials indicate that semaglutide is more effective as a weight management tool. In a 68-week trial involving non-diabetic adults with overweight or obesity, the efficacy and safety of weekly subcutaneous semaglutide (2.4mg) and once-daily subcutaneous liraglutide (3.0mg) were compared [10].

The study found that:

  • Semaglutide led to significantly greater weight loss compared to liraglutide;
  • Semaglutide mean weight change was -15.8%;
  • Liraglutide mean weight change was -6.4% ;
  • Semaglutide also showed higher odds of achieving 10% or more, 15% or more, and 20% or more weight loss.

These findings suggest that once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide, when combined with lifestyle interventions, offers superior weight loss benefits in individuals with overweight or obesity compared to once-daily subcutaneous liraglutide [10].

Diabetes Treatment

As approved T2D treatments, both semaglutide and liraglutide help to [11]:

  • Regulate blood sugar levels by increasing insulin secretion from the pancreas and reducing glucose production in the liver; and
  • Improve glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

However, semaglutide has also been shown to offer more benefits in this context. A 12-week trial exploring semaglutide versus liraglutide in managing glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes yielded the following results [11]:

  • Semaglutide demonstrated dose-dependent reductions in HbA1c levels and body weight, with up to 81% of patients achieving an HbA1c level below 7%.
  • The HbA1c and weight reductions were greater with semaglutide compared to liraglutide.

Overall, semaglutide showed superior efficacy in improving glycemic control and weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes, and its safety and tolerability were consistent with other glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists [11].

Other Potential Benefits

Semaglutide in particular has shown promising effects on cardiovascular outcomes. It has been associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular events and mortality in individuals with type 2 diabetes [12].

While liraglutide has also demonstrated cardiovascular benefits, semaglutide stands out with its positive impact on cardiovascular health. In the PIONEER clinical trials, once-daily oral semaglutide demonstrated better efficacy compared to placebo, sitagliptin, empagliflozin, liraglutide, and dulaglutide in reducing cardiovascular risk [12].

Both semaglutide and liraglutide have also shown positive metabolic effects, such as improved insulin sensitivity, lowered glucose production in the liver, and increased thermogenesis. These metabolic effects can have positive implications beyond weight loss and blood sugar control, contributing to overall metabolic health [3].

Semaglutide vs. Liraglutide | The Verdict

Semaglutide and liraglutide offer similar benefits in terms of weight loss and diabetes treatment. Both medications reduce appetite, increase satiety, lower body weight, lower blood sugar levels, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Clinical trials have demonstrated significant benefits with both drugs, but differences in clinical outcomes have been observed.

Semaglutide may have a therapeutic advantage according to current comparative data.


Comparing Semaglutide and Liraglutide Dosages

While both semaglutide and liraglutide are typically administered as subcutaneously in weight loss settings, their dosage amounts and administration frequencies differ quite a bit. Let’s take a look at the differences in dosing between the two.

Recommended Dosages

The maintenance dosage for subcutaneous semaglutide is up to 2.4mg once weekly, which should be achieved gradually following a dose escalation schedule [13].

Liraglutide is also typically prescribed with a dose escalation schedule until reaching a maintenance dose of up to 3mg once daily [14].

While these are general guidelines, the precise dosage of each tends to vary with therapeutic context. As studies evolve, new dosage recommendations may emerge.

Here, we will compare current semaglutide and liraglutide recommended dosages for specific uses.

Dosages for Type 2 Diabetes Management

Semaglutide for diabetes treatment is typically dosed as follows:

  • It can be taken orally in doses of 3mg to 14mg once daily [15].
  • Subcutaneous semaglutide starts at 0.25mg once weekly and can be increased to up to 2.0mg once weekly following a dose escalation schedule if more glycemic control is needed [13].

Liraglutide is typically dosed accordingly for T2D:

  • Initiated at a dosage of 0.6mg per day for one week, administered subcutaneously at any time of the day, regardless of meals.
  • The dose may be increased to 1.2mg and eventually to 1.8mg once daily for diabetes treatment [14].

Dosages for Weight Loss

For weight management…

Semaglutide is often dosed according to the following guidelines:

  • Subcutaneous semaglutide is given a higher maintenance dosage of 2.4mg once weekly. There is currently no recommended dosage of oral semaglutide for weight loss, pending FDA approval for this use [13].

The full liraglutide dosage for weight loss is:

  • 3mg once daily via subcutaneously to promote weight loss [14].

It is important to note that these dosages are general recommendations and can be adjusted based on individual factors, such as medical condition(s), treatment response, and tolerability. Handlers are strongly advised to adhere to current clinical guidelines for safe and effective use.


Semaglutide and Liraglutide | Side Effects and Safety

As FDA-approved drugs, both semaglutide and liraglutide have undergone extensive safety testing for human use.

While each has an overall positive safety profile, side effects have been observed. This section will summarize clinical safety findings on semaglutide and liraglutide, including common and serious side effects, safety considerations, and important precautions.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects of both semaglutide and liraglutide include [10, 12]:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Abdominal pain

Typically, these adverse reactions are mild to moderate in nature, and they tend to ameliorate gradually as the body adapts to the course of therapy.

Serious Side Effects

Although rare, both semaglutide and liraglutide may cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include:

  • Hypoglycemia
  • Pancreatitis
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Kidney injury
  • Thyroid malignancy
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Allergic reactions

Regarding the objective of GLP-1R-A therapy to decrease blood glucose levels, it is possible that these agents could potentially lead to hypoglycemia. However, since GLP-1-RAs primarily operate by stimulating insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, hypoglycemia is a rare occurrence.

Furthermore, under hypoglycemic conditions, the inhibition of glucagon release does not take place. As a result, the risk of hypoglycemia seems to be minimal when using subcutaneous and oral semaglutide alone.

Nevertheless, the risk of hypoglycemia increases when GLP-1-RAs are combined with sulfonylurea and/or insulin therapy.

Symptoms of pancreatitis include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Allergic or hypersensitivity reactions may present with urticaria, rash, anaphylaxis, and angioedema.

Extreme caution is advised in subjects with increased risk of these severe side effects, such as those with previously diagnosed thyroid cancer or diseases of the pancreas, gallbladder, and kidneys. If any of these serious side effects occur, medical help should be sought immediately [10, 12].

Safety Considerations

Both semaglutide and liraglutide are generally considered safe when used as prescribed or under controlled research conditions. However, there are some safety considerations to keep in mind.

Semaglutide should not be used in patients or subjects with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (a type of thyroid cancer) or in those with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (a genetic disorder associated with thyroid cancer) [16].

Similarly, liraglutide should not be used in those with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or in subjects with a history of a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis [10, 12].

Precautions and Warnings

Before taking semaglutide or liraglutide, it is important to rule out any pre-existing medical conditions, including a history of pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, kidney disease, or any allergies [16].

Semaglutide and liraglutide may also interact with other medications, so it is essential to gather information about all of the subject’s current medications and supplements.

Studies involving semaglutide or liraglutide should also rule out pregnant or breastfeeding subjects, as their use in these conditions has not been extensively studied [16].

It is crucial to discuss safety considerations, disclose relevant medical history, and follow precautions and warnings when administering these medications. Regular monitoring and communication can help ensure the safe and effective use of semaglutide and liraglutide.

Furthermore, handlers can decrease the risk of side effects by purchasing all peptide therapeutics from strictly legitimate sources. We’ll present our top recommendation in the following section.


Semaglutide vs Liraglutide


Where to Buy Weight Loss Peptides Online? | 2024 Edition

Peptide researchers looking to purchase premium semaglutide and liraglutide online are encouraged to order from our top recommended suppliers, who we endorse for their transparency, peptide quality, and customer-oriented policies.

Limitless Life Semaglutide

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PureRawz Liraglutide

To obtain high-quality liraglutide at reasonable prices, head over to leading distributor PureRawz.

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Bacteriostatic Water and Research Peptides

To prepare either semaglutide or liraglutide, there are some supplies a researcher will need to gather in addition to the peptide — including bacteriostatic water.

This, among other items, are necessary for preparing semaglutide or liraglutide.

Here is our number one choice when looking to source said things.


Semaglutide vs. Liraglutide Comparison | Verdict

Semaglutide and liraglutide are effective peptide-based drugs for weight loss. Both are safe for human use, but are linked to common side effects like nausea and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Both peptides can help individuals achieve weight loss goals when used following a prudent dosing schedule. It is essential to consider individual factors and follow safety precautions. In comparative clinical trials, semaglutide has been shown to offer greater therapeutic benefits overall.

Semaglutide and liraglutide offer promising benefits for weight management, but personalized guidance and regular monitoring are essential to ensure their safe and effective use.


References

  1. Singh G, Krauthamer M, Bjalme-Evans M. Wegovy (semaglutide): a new weight loss drug for chronic weight management. J Investig Med. 2022 Jan;70(1):5-13. doi: 10.1136/jim-2021-001952. Epub 2021 Oct 27.
  2. Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S, Davies M, Van Gaal LF, Lingvay I, McGowan BM, Rosenstock J, Tran MTD, Wadden TA, Wharton S, Yokote K, Zeuthen N, Kushner RF. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2021 Mar 18;384(11):989-1002. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2032183. Epub 2021 Feb 10.
  3. Chao AM, Tronieri JS, Amaro A, Wadden TA. Semaglutide for the treatment of obesity. Trends Cardiovasc Med. 2023 Apr;33(3):159-166. doi: 10.1016/j.tcm.2021.12.008. Epub 2021 Dec 21.
  4. Christou GA, Katsiki N, Blundell J, Fruhbeck G, Kiortsis DN. Semaglutide as a promising antiobesity drug. Obes Rev. 2019 Jun;20(6):805-815. doi: 10.1111/obr.12839. Epub 2019 Feb 15.
  5. Sorli C, Harashima S, Tsoukas GM, Unger J, Karsbøl JD, Hansen T, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Once-Weekly Semaglutide Monotherapy Versus Placebo in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes (SUSTAIN 1): A Double-Blind, Randomised, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group, Multinational, Multicentre Phase 3a Trial. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol (2017) 5:251–60. doi: 10.1016/S2213-8587(17)30013-X
  6. Ther. 2015 Mar 30;9:1867-75. doi: 10.2147/DDDT.S58459.
  7. Nuffer WA, Trujillo JM. Liraglutide: A New Option for the Treatment of Obesity. Pharmacotherapy. 2015 Oct;35(10):926-34. doi: 10.1002/phar.1639.
  8. Jacobsen LV, Flint A, Olsen AK, Ingwersen SH. Liraglutide in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Clinical Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics. Clin Pharmacokinet. 2016 Jun;55(6):657-72. doi: 10.1007/s40262-015-0343-6.
  9. Tamborlane WV, Barrientos-Pérez M, Fainberg U, Frimer-Larsen H et al. Liraglutide in Children and Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes. N Engl J Med. 2019 Aug 15;381(7):637-646. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1903822. Epub 2019 Apr 28.31034184
  10. Rubino DM, Greenway FL, Khalid U, O'Neil PM, Rosenstock J, Sørrig R, Wadden TA, Wizert A, Garvey WT; Effect of Weekly Subcutaneous Semaglutide vs Daily Liraglutide on Body Weight in Adults With Overweight or Obesity Without Diabetes: The STEP 8 Randomized Clinical Trial.JAMA. 2022 Jan 11;327(2):138-150. doi: 10.1001/jama.2021.23619.
  11. Nauck MA, Petrie JR, Sesti G, Mannucci E, Courrèges JP, Lindegaard ML, Jensen CB, Atkin SL A Phase 2, Randomized, Dose-Finding Study of the Novel Once-Weekly Human GLP-1 Analog, Semaglutide, Compared With Placebo and Open-Label Liraglutide in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes. Diabetes Care. 2016 Feb;39(2):231-41.
  12. Thethi TK, Pratley R, Meier JJ. Efficacy, safety and cardiovascular outcomes of once-daily oral semaglutide in patients with type 2 diabetes: The PIONEER program. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2020 Aug;22(8):1263-1277.
  13. FDA. (2022). Drug Label Information HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION of WEGOVY (semaglutide) injection. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/215256s005lbl.pdf
  14. FDA. (2019). Drug Label Information: HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION of VICTOZA. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/022341s031lbl.pdf
  15. FDA. (2021). Drug Label Information: HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION of RYBELSUS (semaglutide) tablets. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/213051s006lbl.pdf
  16. Smits MM, Van Raalte DH. Safety of Semaglutide. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2021 Jul 7;12:645563. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2021.645563

Scientifically Fact Checked by:

David Warmflash, M.D.

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