In recent years, there has been more and more talk about modern drugs for weight loss and the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Among the most frequently mentioned are Wegovy, Mounjaro, Saxenda and Ozempic. Each has a slightly different composition, effect and approved use. What is the difference between them and which one is available and suitable in Slovakia?
1. Wegovy (semaglutide)
Wegovy is a medicine from Novo Nordisk intended for reducing body weight and maintaining the weight loss achieved. It contains semaglutide, which acts on GLP-1 receptors, helps reduce hunger, increase satiety and limit food intake. Ozempic, which is intended for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, contains the same active substance.
- High efficacy: in the STEP UP clinical trial, Wegovy at a dose of 7.2 mg achieved an average body weight reduction of 20.7%, provided the treatment was followed without interruption or change. Roughly one in three patients in the trial lost 25% or more of their body weight.
- Availability in Slovakia: it is currently available on prescription in our clinic Esthetic
Source: Applied Clinical Trials, STEP UP trial results
2. Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
Mounjaro is a relatively new drug developed by Eli Lilly. Its active ingredient is tirzepatide, which acts on two hormones: GLP-1 and GIP. This increases satiety, reduces appetite and also improves blood sugar control. Application 1x per week.
- Major benefit: significant weight loss (more than 20% of body weight in clinical studies)
- Availability in Slovakia: it is currently available on prescription in our clinic Esthetic
3. Saxenda (liraglutide)
Saxenda is a liraglutide-based drug that is approved directly for weight loss, not diabetes. Its effect is to mimic the hormone GLP-1, which regulates appetite and slows gastric emptying.
- Daily administration: injection once a day
- Availability in Slovakia: yes, on prescription
4. Ozempic (semaglutide)
Ozempic is mainly known as a treatment for type 2 diabetes, but it has also quickly gained popularity for its weight loss effects. Like Saxenda, it works via GLP-1, but has a longer half-life and is only given once a week.
- Side effect: significant weight reduction
- Availability in Slovakia: yes, on prescription (primarily for diabetics)
Which is the best?
It depends on what you need:
- For significant weight loss: Wegovy and Mounjaro have the greatest potential.
- For legally approved weight loss: Saxenda is a drug approved for weight loss only.
- For the combination of diabetes and weight loss: Ozempic is a very popular choice.
The best way to reduce weight
Make an appointment for a consultation and examination by a physician to determine the best way for you to lose weight.
For more information on overweight and obesity treatment, click here.
Book a consultation
Not sure which treatment is right for you? Tell us what you would like to improve. We will recommend a suitable treatment and suggest the next steps.
Book an appointment