Ntamo Y, Ziqubu K, Chellan N, Nkambule BB, Nyambuya TM, Mazibuko-Mbeje SE, Gabuza KB, Marcheggiani F, Tiano L, Dludla PV
Cost Comparison Table Insurance Coverage Saxenda: FDA-approved for weight loss Some plans cover with prior authorization May have quantity limits or step therapy requirements Ozempic: FDA-approved for diabetes, not weight loss Often covered for diabetic patients Rarely covered for weight loss alone Wegovy: FDA-approved for weight loss Coverage varies widely Many plans exclude weight loss medications Cost Efficiency When comparing cost per outcome: Saxenda: At $200/month for 12 months ($2,400) producing 15-18 pounds loss = ~$133-160 per pound lost Semaglutide: At $199/month for 12 months ($2,388) producing 30-35 pounds loss = ~$68-80 per pound lost Semaglutide provides substantially better value when considering weight loss achieved per dollar spent
Basel: Taylor and Francis
J Toxicol Environ Health A
Asterisks (*) indicate statistically significant differences between the two groups