Saxenda vs Ozempic: Which Is Better for Weight Loss in Dubai?

Introduction
With weight loss injections becoming increasingly popular in Dubai, two names stand out: Saxenda Dubai. Both are prescription medications designed to aid weight management, but which one is right for you?
In this blog, we compare Saxenda vs Ozempic in Dubai, analyzing:
Effectiveness
Price
Side effects
Availability
Doctor recommendations
What is Saxenda?
Saxenda (liraglutide) is a daily injection approved for weight management in adults with a BMI of 30+ or 27+ with obesity-related conditions. It works by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which:
Reduces hunger
Slows digestion
Helps you feel full sooner
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic (semaglutide) is primarily a diabetes medication, but it’s also widely used off-label for weight loss. It is:
A weekly injection
Often used in place of Saxenda due to longer action
Effective in suppressing appetite and promoting fat loss
Saxenda vs Ozempic: Effectiveness for Weight Loss
Feature | Saxenda | Ozempic |
Dosing | Daily injection | Weekly injection |
Avg. Weight Loss | 5-10% of body weight in 3-6 months | 10-15% in 3-6 months |
Time to See Results | 4-6 weeks | 2-4 weeks |
FDA Approval | For weight loss | For diabetes (Wegovy for weight loss) |
Dubai DHA Status | Approved for obesity | Prescribed off-label for weight loss |
Verdict: Ozempic generally leads to greater and faster weight loss, especially when combined with lifestyle changes. However, Saxenda is specifically approved for obesity and may be preferred in some clinical cases.
Which is Cheaper in Dubai?
Cost Factor | Saxenda (monthly) | Ozempic (monthly) |
Dose | Daily (5 pens/month) | Weekly (1–2 pens/month) |
Average Price | AED 2400 – AED 2800 | AED 1100 – AED 1800 |
Consultation Fees | AED 200 – AED 500 | AED 200 – AED 500 |
Winner: Ozempic is more cost-effective, especially for long-term use. With fewer injections and lower price per month, it's a practical choice for many in Dubai.
Side Effects Comparison
Side Effect | Saxenda | Ozempic |
Nausea | Common | Common |
Vomiting/Diarrhea | Occasional | Occasional |
Fatigue | Less common | Possible |
Risk of Thyroid Tumors | Warning (both) | Warning (both) |
Injection Frequency | Daily | Weekly |
Both medications have similar side effects, but due to the weekly dosage, some patients find Ozempic easier to tolerate long-term.
Availability in Dubai
✅ Saxenda is widely available:
Life Pharmacy
Aster Pharmacy
BinSina
Offered at most weight loss clinics
✅ Ozempic is also available, though:
Often prescribed off-label for weight loss
In higher demand, so stock may fluctuate
Always consult a DHA-licensed physician before using either medication in Dubai.
Who Should Choose Saxenda?
You want a DHA-approved treatment specifically for weight loss
You don’t mind a daily injection
You prefer a medication with a long safety track record
Who Should Choose Ozempic?
You want a weekly injection
You need faster and more significant weight loss
You’re managing type 2 diabetes alongside obesity
Doctor Insights in Dubai
Many weight loss experts in Dubai prescribe both Saxenda and Ozempic, depending on the patient's needs:
“For patients looking for convenience and rapid results, I usually recommend Ozempic. But Saxenda is excellent for those who want a structured daily approach with long-term support.” – Dr. Maha, Weight Management Specialist, Dubai
Real Results from Patients in Dubai
Saxenda User (Fatima, 34):
“I lost 9 kg in 3 months using Saxenda from Novomed. It was a bit pricey, but totally worth it!”
Ozempic User (Zaid, 42):
“I lost 11 kg in 2.5 months. One shot per week made it easier to stick to my routine. Got it from Aster.”
Conclusion: Saxenda or Ozempic – Which is Right for You?
Decision Factor | Go for Saxenda | Go for Ozempic |
DHA-Approved for Weight Loss | ✅ | ❌ (off-label only) |
Budget-Friendly | ❌ | ✅ |
Weekly Injection | ❌ | ✅ |
Clinic Support | ✅ | ✅ |
Availability | ✅ Widely available | ✅, but sometimes limited |
Both Saxenda and Ozempic offer safe, medically supervised weight loss in Dubai. The choice depends on your budget, preference, and lifestyle.
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