Shedding Pounds in Seoul: Understanding Saxenda in Korea

Saxenda (liraglutide) has become a well-known name in the world of weight management, offering a non-surgical option for individuals struggling with obesity or excess weight. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, it works by mimicking a natural hormone in your body that regulates appetite, helping you feel fuller and reduce food intake. If you're living in or considering a move to South Korea and exploring Saxenda as a weight loss solution, here's what you need to know.

Is Saxenda Available and Prescribed in Korea?

Yes, Saxenda is available and can be prescribed in South Korea. It was approved by the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) and has been a prominent anti-obesity medication in the market for several years. You'll find it prescribed by doctors specializing in obesity management, endocrinology, or even some family medicine clinics.

However, it's worth noting that while Saxenda has been a market leader, newer GLP-1 medications like Wegovy (semaglutide) have also launched in Korea (Wegovy in October 2024, with full availability of pre-filled pens expected by November 2025). These newer drugs are once-weekly injections and have shown even greater weight loss efficacy, leading to a shift in market dominance. Your doctor will discuss the best option for you based on your individual profile.

Prescription Criteria for Saxenda in Korea

In South Korea, as in many other countries, Saxenda is not a casual prescription. It's generally prescribed as part of a comprehensive weight management plan that includes diet, exercise, and behavioral therapy. The key criteria for prescription align with the guidelines from the Korean Society for the Study of Obesity:

• Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or higher.
• BMI of 27 kg/m² or higher with at least one weight-related comorbidity. These comorbidities typically include:
• Type 2 diabetes
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Dyslipidemia (abnormal cholesterol levels)
• Sleep apnea
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

For children aged 12-17, Saxenda may be considered if they have a body weight above 132 pounds (60kg) and obesity.

It's crucial that the prescription comes from a medical professional after a thorough evaluation of your health, medical history, and suitability for the medication, as Saxenda has potential side effects and contraindications (e.g., personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2).

Cost of Saxenda in Korea and NHIS Coverage

Saxenda, like most anti-obesity medications in South Korea, is NOT covered by the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS). This means you will bear the full cost of the medication and associated consultation fees.

• Cost per pen: A single Saxenda pen typically costs in the range of ₩85,000 to ₩150,000 KRW (approximately $65 to $110 USD, based on current exchange rates).
• Monthly Cost: The dose of Saxenda is gradually increased over several weeks, starting at 0.6mg and going up to a maximum of 3.0mg daily. A pen contains 18mg of the medication.
• At the starting dose of 0.6mg/day, one pen lasts 30 days.
• At the full dose of 3.0mg/day, one pen lasts 6 days. Therefore, the monthly cost can vary significantly depending on your prescribed dose. At the full 3.0mg/day dose, you would need approximately 5 pens per month, bringing the monthly cost to ₩425,000 to ₩750,000 KRW (approximately $315 to $550 USD), plus consultation fees.
• Consultation Fees: An initial consultation with a specialist can range from ₩50,000 to ₩150,000 KRW (without NHIS coverage). Follow-up visits will be less.

Compared to similar medications in Western countries, the price of Saxenda in Korea can be considered relatively competitive, but it still represents a significant out-of-pocket expense.

Foreigner-Friendly Clinics for Obesity Management and Saxenda Prescription

• South Korea has a robust medical tourism industry, and many clinics and hospitals are well-equipped to handle international patients.

When contacting clinics, always confirm their English-speaking capabilities, whether they prescribe Saxenda, and get a clear estimate of the costs involved.

General Guidelines and Considerations for Foreigners

1. Comprehensive Approach: Remember that Saxenda is a tool, not a magic bullet. It's most effective when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
2. Medical Evaluation: Be prepared for a thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests and a review of your medical history, to ensure Saxenda is safe and appropriate for you.
3. Dosage Escalation: Saxenda dosage is gradually increased over several weeks to minimize side effects. Your doctor will guide you through this.
4. Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and headache. These often subside as your body adjusts. Serious side effects like pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, or thyroid tumors (including cancer) are rare but possible. Discuss all potential risks with your doctor.
5. Supply Issues: While Saxenda has been widely available, the emergence of newer GLP-1s like Wegovy and Mounjaro has impacted supply chains globally. Be aware that there might be temporary shortages, and your doctor may suggest alternative medications if supply is an issue.
6. Long-Term Commitment: Weight management is a long-term journey. Discuss with your doctor the expected duration of treatment and long-term maintenance strategies.
7. Prescription Refills: Understand the process for getting refills, especially if you have a visa that requires frequent trips out of the country, or if you plan to stay long-term.



Saxenda offers a valuable option for weight management in South Korea. By seeking care from reputable, English-friendly clinics and committing to a holistic approach, you can effectively pursue your health goals.

The female director personally provides care, listening to each patient's story.

01 - One-on-One Personalized Treatment
02 - Post-Treatment Management Syste

03 - Precise Diagnostic Program

Because we understand women, LANTE DBGYN