Key takeaways

The FDA approved the first generic GLP-1 specifically indicated for weight loss, a version of the popular injectable medication, Saxenda.
The exact cost of the generic version of Saxenda has not yet been announced.
Like the name-brand version, the generic form of Saxenda should be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity.

In this article:

What is generic Saxenda
Why this approval matters
Cost
Availability

In this article

What is generic Saxenda
Why this approval matters
Cost
Availability

Good news for people looking for more affordable options to help them lose weight and keep it off! The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a generic version of Saxenda, a commonly prescribed glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1).

“With this approval, and by launching a generic for Saxenda (liraglutide injection), we will provide patients in the U.S. the first ever generic GLP-1 product specifically indicated for weight loss,” Ernie Richardsen, Senior Vice President and Head of U.S. Commercial Generics at Teva Pharmaceuticals, Inc., said in a statement.

What is Saxenda generic?

Liraglutide is a medication that contains the same active ingredient and provides the same benefits as brand-name Saxenda. It’s approved to treat adults and pediatric patients 12 years and older with obesity who weigh more than 60 kg (132 pounds). It can also be used to treat overweight adults who have at least one weight-related medical condition, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure.

Like other well-known injectable weight-loss drugs, such as Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide), liraglutide helps regulate cravings and decrease appetite. It also slows down the rate at which the stomach empties to help you feel fuller for longer.

How does Saxenda generic compare to the brand name?

To gain FDA approval, a generic medication must be proven to work the same and provide the same benefits as the brand-name medication. Meaning, you should have the same treatment experience taking generic liraglutide as you would with brand-name Saxenda.

Saxenda is manufactured by Novo Nordisk. Teva Pharmaceuticals gained approval for generic Saxenda. Both medications are available in the same dose, form, and route of administration.

As with Saxenda, people taking liraglutide should also eat a reduced-calorie diet and get regular exercise.

Why this approval matters

Saxenda was the first GLP-1 drug approved to help with weight loss in the U.S., originally approved in December 2014. Since then, the popularity of similar weight-loss medications has surged, though supply and price are often barriers to treatment.

For example, a monthly supply of Zepbound or Wegovy can cost anywhere from $499 to $1,500. The average monthly cost for brand-name Saxenda is around $1,800. Typically, generic options cost less than their brand-name counterparts, and prices often continue to decrease as more generic manufacturers enter the market.

How much will generic Saxenda cost?

Teva has not announced pricing for generic Saxenda.

However, Teva Pharmaceuticals previously received approval for a copycat of Victoza, a Type 2 diabetes medication containing liraglutide. The average monthly retail price for that form of liraglutide is around $340, and even less when using a SingleCare discount coupon.

When will generic Saxenda be available?

Teva Pharmaceuticals announced the approval and U.S. launch of generic Saxenda on August 28, 2025. Because availability may vary by location, check with your local pharmacy to see if it is in stock or if they can order it.