Mysimba vs Saxenda: A Comprehensive Comparison

Losing weight is a journey that takes hard work and determination. A healthy diet and regular exercise are crucial for success, but are sometimes not enough by themselves to help you reach your goals. This is where weight loss treatments such as injections and tablets can help.

There are several such medications available, ranging from the most well-known, such as Mounjaro and Wegovy, to other options like Mysimba, Nevolat, and Xenical. Each has its own active ingredients, mechanism of action, contraindications, and list of potential side effects, so what works for one person may not work for another.

Because of this, it’s essential to research the different types of treatment, so you can make a more informed decision about which one is most suitable for you. A good way to do this is to compare medications, and this article can help.

Join us as we compare Mysimba vs Saxenda (now available as Nevolat), covering how they work, dosage schedules, side effects, and potential weight loss. Let’s begin. 

START YOUR MYSIMBA CONSULTATION TODAY

Saxenda vs Mysimba: At a Glance

Saxenda and Mysimba are both prescription-only medications that have a similar impact on weight loss. However, they work in different ways and are available in different forms.

Here, we briefly examine the similarities and differences between Saxenda and Mysimba:

• Mysimba is taken orally in tablet form, whereas Saxenda is a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection
• The dose is increased weekly for both medicines until an optimal dosage is reached weeks later.
• Both medicines work differently for weight loss. Saxenda mimics the effects of the natural hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), while Mysimba acts on the brain region that controls appetite and food cravings.
• Clinical trial results suggest that Saxenda delivers a greater percentage of weight loss than Mysimba but also causes more side effects.
• Both are taken daily. Saxenda is injected once daily, while at the highest dose, Mysimba is taken twice daily.
• Mysimba can result in an average weight loss of 8.1% over 56 weeks, compared to 8% for Saxenda.
• Saxenda may be available on the NHS, while Mysimba is only obtainable with a private prescription.

Mysimba vs Saxenda: How They Work

The weight loss properties of these drugs depend on their active ingredients. Mysimba is a combination of two drugs: naltrexone, an opioid antagonist (i.e. blocks the effects of the opioid receptors) and bupropion, a type of antidepressant. Saxenda only has one active ingredient: liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist.

Because these medicines are from different drug classes, they work differently, too:

• Mysimba has a dual approach. Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors in the brain, potentially reducing appetite, as these receptors partially regulate hunger. Bupropion affects neurotransmitters (i.e. ‘brain chemicals’) like dopamine, which can lead to feeling less hungry and burning more calories.
• Liraglutide in Saxenda works quite differently. As a GLP-1 agonist, it mimics GLP-1, which regulates appetite. Like Mysimba, it also has dual effects. By slowing the rate at which your stomach empties, you feel fuller for longer. It can also activate GLP-1 receptors in the brain, which control hunger, leading to reduced interest in eating and, hence, weight loss.

Mysimba and Saxenda: Dosage & Administration

Both drugs have different doses because Mysimba is taken as tablets, whereas Saxenda is given as an injection.

Mysimba’s dose increases gradually. You start with one tablet (8mg naltrexone/90mg bupropion) in the morning, and then the dose gradually increases over 4 weeks to two tablets twice a day (a maximum daily dose of 4 tablets). Ideally, take it with food.

Saxenda also requires a gradual dose increase over 5 weeks. The initial dose is 0.6mg daily for 1 week, and the dose is increased by 0.6mg weekly thereafter. The maximum daily dose is 3mg.

If you’d like more information about the liraglutide dosing schedule, check out our dedicated Nevolat dosage guide (a generic form of liraglutide). Here, we explain what the usual liraglutide dosage schedule looks like, what you can expect, and how it compares to the other weight loss injections, Wegovy and Mounjaro.  

Mysimba vs Saxenda Side Effects

Mysimba and Saxenda can both cause side effects, but the type and frequency can be different between the two medications. They both commonly cause gastrointestinal issues, particularly at the start of treatment and after a dose increase, but they tend to settle as your body adjusts to the active ingredients.

Some of the very common and common Mysimba side effects include:

Very common:

• feeling or being sick
• headache
• constipation

Common:

• anxiety
• dizziness
• shakiness
• sleep issues
• taste changes
• tiredness
• fast or irregular heartbeat
  stomach pain

Some of the most common liraglutide side effects include:

Very common:

• feeling or being sick
• diarrhoea
• constipation
• headache

Common:

• indigestion
• stomach lining inflammation (gastritis)
• stomach pain
• heartburn
  tiredness or weakness
• dizziness
• sleep issues
• gallstones
• rash
• low blood sugar

Many of these side effects tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medication and can be managed at home. If you are worried, you can contact your doctor or one of our clinicians for more advice. 

Which is Better: Mysimba or Saxenda?

Clinical trials have shown that the active ingredient in Saxenda, liraglutide, can result in an average weight loss of 8.4% over 56 weeks compared to a placebo. The same trial found that:

• 63.2% lost at least 5% of their starting weight 
• 33.1% lost at least 10% of their initial body weight

In comparison, Mysimba users can lose up to 8.1% of their starting body weight over 56 weeks. 62% of people lost at least 5% of their body weight, and 34% lost at least 10% over 56 weeks.

One study comparing the effectiveness of liraglutide and naltrexone/bupropion treatment in people with genetic obesity found that both medications are effective for weight loss. The results are shown in the table below:

Both Mysimba and Saxenda led to greater weight loss than placebo when used with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Where Can I Buy Mysimba or Saxenda for Weight Loss?

Saxenda is no longer available for weight loss in the UK, as its manufacturer has discontinued it. However, the generic form of liraglutide, the active ingredient in Saxenda, is available under the name Nevolat. It works the same way as Saxenda, but with a different name.

Both Mysimba and Nevolat are available from Prescription Doctor. Before purchase, you will take part in an online consultation that includes completing a medical questionnaire. This is to help our clinicians determine whether these medicines are best suited for you or if other treatments are more appropriate. You must meet the eligibility criteria to qualify for our weight loss service.

If our clinicians decide that your chosen treatment is not suitable, you will receive a full refund under our money-back guarantee.

Mysimba vs Saxenda Costs

At Prescription Doctor, a box of Mysimba contains 112 tablets and costs £109.99. This will last for almost 6 weeks initially, then 28 days once the optimal dose is reached.

Mysimba

Rated 1.0 out of 5 based on 1 reviews

Rated 1.0 out of 5 based on 1 reviews

• Reduces cravings & emotional eating 
• Convenient, twice-daily oral treatment 
• Proven weight loss results

• Discreet delivery next working day
• Online prescription - No doctor visit

Prices from £109.99 Review More Prices

Start Order More Info

Get Started

Start Order More info

The price of generic Saxenda (Nevolat) varies based on the number of pens purchased. Reaching the optimal dose requires around 4 pens. Following this, each pen (at the optimal dose of 3mg daily) will last 6 days.

The table below outlines how much Nevolat costs at Prescription Doctor: 

Nevolat

Rated 0 out of 5 based on 0 reviews

Rated 0 out of 5 based on 0 reviews

• Approved Weight Loss treatment
• Once-daily injection
• More affordable than branded treatments

• Discreet delivery next working day
• Online prescription - No doctor visit

Prices from £64.99 Review More Prices

Start Order More Info

Get Started

Start Order More info

Saxenda or Mysimba: Which is Best for You?

Each of us is different, and the drug which suits you the best depends on many factors, not just efficacy. These include:

• Route of administration: Mysimba may be more convenient as it is given as tablets. 
• Fear of needles: Individuals who have a phobia of needles would feel more comfortable taking Mysimba
• Cost: At the optimal dosage, Mysimba is less costly than Saxenda (Nevolat).
• Side effects: Both Saxenda and Mysimba cause gastrointestinal side effects, but Saxenda has a higher reported rate, while Mysimba may have less-intense side effects overall.
• Other health conditions: Saxenda may not be suitable for those with a history of thyroid issues or pancreatitis. At the same time, Mysimba may not be right if you have certain mental health conditions.  

Mysimba vs Saxenda: Frequently Asked Questions

When choosing the right weight loss medication for you, there are many factors to consider. You may even be wondering whether you can combine Mysimba and Saxenda for even greater weight loss, or if there are any alternatives available. Here, we answer the most common questions to help you make a more informed decision.

Can You Take Mysimba and Saxenda Together?

No, you should not take Mysimba and Saxenda together because this can increase the chance of serious side effects. While they are both approved for weight loss, combining them could make you unwell and cause drug interactions. If you are unsure about which is best for you, a clinician can discuss the options with you.  

Are There Alternatives to Saxenda and Mysimba?

Yes, Mysimba and Saxenda (liraglutide) are not the only weight loss medications available. Several alternative injections and pills have been approved and shown to effectively help you lose weight. Some are prescription-only, while a few over-the-counter weight loss pills are available.

At Prescription Doctor, we can provide:

• Mounjaro: A once-weekly injection that contains the active ingredient, tirzepatide, which acts on two hormone receptors to suppress appetite, reduce food cravings, and manage blood sugar levels. It can effectively help people lose up to 22.5% of their body weight in 72 weeks.
• Wegovy:  A once-weekly injection that contains semaglutide and works in the same way as Saxenda by mimicking the effects of GLP-1. Clinical trials show it can help people lose 15-17% of their starting body weight over 68 weeks. Semaglutide is also available under the brand name Ozempic, a medication approved for type 2 diabetes and previously available off-label for weight loss, but Wegovy is preferred. 
• Orlistat: Also available under the brand name Xenical, orlistat is a daily pill that helps to block the absorption of dietary fat. Each pill contains 120 mg of orlistat and helps 60% of people lose at least 5% of their body weight over 12 weeks.
• Alli: An over-the-counter version of orlistat, which is available in a 60 mg dose and works in a similar way to Xenical (orlistat).

For more information and a comparison of the treatments we offer, please read our guides to weight loss injections and prescription pills. 

Here for the Journey

If you’re considering a medicated weight loss programme, Prescription Doctor is here to help. Since our inception in 2013, we’ve cultivated a strong reputation for helping customers achieve their goals. It’s therefore no surprise that we’re highly rated on review platforms such as Trustpilot.

We’ve made it our mission to take the hassle out of obtaining the healthcare you need. With us, there are no potentially lengthy waiting times for face-to-face appointments. Simply complete our brief online medical questionnaire, and our experienced clinicians will review your information to determine whether your chosen medication is suitable for your circumstances. Once approved, your order is dispatched in discreet packaging for delivery straight to your door. It’s that straightforward.

Our service doesn’t just stop there, however, as our clinicians will regularly check in with you to monitor progress and ensure your treatment is working well. They are also available to answer any questions you may have about your medication or weight loss journey. We are here to support you at every step.

Ready to take the first steps towards a brand new you? Begin a weight loss consultation with Prescription Doctor today. 

Authored By

Leanne Edermaniger

Medical Content Writer

Leanne is a science and health content writer focusing on human health and biology while utilising her solid academic background.

Published on: 13/06/2024 Re-Published on: 23/01/2026

Reviewed By

Mohamed Imran Lakhi

MPharm - Lead Pharmacist

Imran Lakhi is the superintendent pharmacist and founder at Prescription Doctor. He has been at the core of our team.

Reviewed on: 23/01/2026