Farxiga vs. Other Weight Loss Medications: Which Works Best?
- Liam
- Feb 9
- 5 min read
Updated: Feb 25

Table of Contents
Summary
Farxiga (dapagliflozin) has gained attention for its ability to help people with type 2 diabetes manage blood sugar while also promoting modest weight loss. However, it’s not the only medication on the market that influences body weight. Drugs like Ozempic, Jardiance, Contrave, and Wegovy are also widely used for weight management, each with different mechanisms, effectiveness, and side effects.
So, how does Farxiga compare to other weight loss medications? Is it the best option, or are there more effective alternatives?
The short answer: Farxiga can support weight loss, but it’s not the most powerful option. While clinical studies show an average loss of 4-6 pounds over several months, drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy can lead to 10-15% total body weight reduction. However, Farxiga has a lower risk of side effects and works well for those managing diabetes.
In this article, we’ll compare Farxiga to other weight loss medications, examining how they work, their effectiveness, and who benefits most. Whether you’re considering Farxiga or exploring other options, this guide will help you decide which medication is best suited for your goals.
How Farxiga Works for Weight Loss

Farxiga (dapagliflozin) belongs to a class of medications called SGLT2 inhibitors, which are primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes. Unlike traditional weight loss medications that target appetite or metabolism, Farxiga promotes weight loss through a different mechanism—by altering how the kidneys process glucose.
How Farxiga Helps with Weight Loss
Farxiga works by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose, leading to excess sugar being excreted through urine. This process reduces overall blood sugar levels and forces the body to eliminate extra calories. Key effects include:
Increased glucose
excretion results in a loss of approximately 200-300 calories per day.
Water loss
occurs alongside sugar excretion, leading to an initial drop in weight.
Long-term use
may improve insulin sensitivity, making it easier to manage body fat.
Why Weight Loss with Farxiga is Moderate
While Farxiga supports weight loss, it does not directly suppress appetite or boost metabolism. This is why weight reduction tends to be gradual and less significant compared to medications like Ozempic or Wegovy. Most studies report an average weight loss of 4-6 pounds over 3-6 months, depending on diet, activity level, and individual metabolism.
Who Benefits Most from Farxiga?
Farxiga is best suited for individuals who:
Have type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance and need dual benefits of blood sugar control and weight loss.
Are looking for gradual weight reduction rather than rapid, dramatic results.
Prefer a medication with a lower risk of severe side effects compared to GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic.
Comparing Farxiga to Other Weight Loss Medications

Farxiga is often compared to other weight loss and diabetes medications, such as Ozempic, Jardiance, Contrave, and Wegovy. Each of these drugs has different mechanisms, effectiveness levels, and potential side effects. Below is a breakdown of how they compare.
How These Medications Work
Each medication works differently to promote weight loss. Some focus on glucose excretion, while others target appetite control or metabolism.
How Farxiga Compares to Ozempic, Jardiance, and Contrave
Farxiga vs. Ozempic:
Ozempic leads to significantly more weight loss (10-15% of body weight) by reducing appetite and slowing digestion, but it can cause nausea and gastrointestinal issues.
Farxiga vs. Jardiance:
Both medications work similarly as SGLT2 inhibitors, with almost identical weight loss effects. Jardiance may have additional cardiovascular benefits.
Farxiga vs. Contrave:
Contrave affects appetite and cravings, leading to greater weight loss for individuals who struggle with emotional eating. However, it carries a higher risk of side effects, including nausea and increased heart rate.
Who Should Choose Farxiga Over Other Medications?
Farxiga is the best option for those who:
Have type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance
and want a medication that controls blood sugar while promoting mild weight loss.
Prefer a medication with fewer gastrointestinal side effects
unlike Ozempic or Contrave.
Want gradual, steady weight loss
without extreme appetite suppression.
For those seeking faster, more significant weight loss, Ozempic or Contrave may be better alternatives.
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Side Effects Comparison

While all weight loss and diabetes medications come with risks, the type and severity of side effects vary. Understanding these differences can help determine which medication is the best fit.
Common Side Effects of Each Medication
Which Medication Has the Lowest Side Effects?
Farxiga and Jardiance
generally cause milder side effects, mostly related to dehydration and increased urination.
Ozempic and Contrave
have a higher risk of nausea, gastrointestinal issues, or appetite-related discomfort.
Contrave
has the most severe potential risks, including mental health concerns.
Who Should Avoid Farxiga?
Farxiga may not be a good choice for those who:
Have a history of frequent urinary tract infections or dehydration.
Are at risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), especially those with type 1 diabetes.
Have advanced kidney disease, as the drug can increase kidney stress.
Which Medication is Best for You?

Choosing the right weight loss medication depends on your health goals, medical conditions, and tolerance for side effects. Some medications work better for diabetes management, while others are designed specifically for weight loss.
Best for Type 2 Diabetes and Mild Weight Loss
Farxiga or Jardiance
Works well for people needing blood sugar control with gradual weight loss.
Low risk of gastrointestinal side effects compared to appetite-suppressing drugs.
Best for Significant Weight Loss
Ozempic (Semaglutide) or Wegovy
Recommended for individuals who need 10-15% body weight reduction.
Effective for appetite suppression but may cause nausea or digestive discomfort.
Best for Controlling Appetite and Emotional Eating
Contrave (Bupropion/Naltrexone)
Helps people who struggle with cravings and binge eating.
Comes with a higher risk of side effects, including nausea and increased heart rate.
Best for Cardiovascular Health Benefits
Jardiance or Ozempic
Both medications provide heart-protective benefits beyond weight loss.
Recommended for individuals with a history of heart disease or stroke risk.
Who Should Consider Farxiga?
Farxiga is the best option for those who:
Have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes and want to manage blood sugar while losing weight.
Prefer a medication with minimal gastrointestinal side effects.
Want gradual, steady weight loss rather than rapid appetite suppression.
Who Should Avoid Farxiga?
Farxiga is not ideal for those who:
Are prone to urinary tract infections or dehydration.
Have type 1 diabetes, due to the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Need substantial weight loss—Ozempic or Contrave may be better options.
Farxiga vs. Other Medications – Which One Wins?

Farxiga is an effective option for modest weight loss, especially for those managing type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance. However, when compared to dedicated weight loss medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Contrave, it does not produce the same dramatic weight reduction.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Right Medication
Choose Farxiga
if you want gradual weight loss and need to control blood sugar without significant side effects.
Choose Ozempic or Wegovy
if you need substantial weight loss and don’t mind potential digestive discomfort.
Choose Contrave
if you struggle with emotional eating and need help controlling cravings.
Choose Jardiance
if you want an alternative to Farxiga with similar effects but additional cardiovascular benefits.
Farxiga is a great choice for individuals needing mild weight loss and diabetes management, but those looking for faster or greater weight loss may find Ozempic, Wegovy, or Contrave to be more effective options.
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