Saxenda is a prescription medication used for weight loss in adults who are obese or overweight and have at least one weight-related medical condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. Here are 5 facts about Saxenda:
Saxenda is an injectable medication:
Saxenda is not a pill but is instead an injectable medication that comes in a pre-filled pen. The pen is used to inject the medication subcutaneously (under the skin) once a day, preferably at the same time every day. Saxenda contains the active ingredient liraglutide, which is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. This means that it works by mimicking the action of a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1 that helps regulate blood sugar levels and appetite.
Saxenda is approved for long-term use:
Saxenda is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for long-term use, which means that it can be used for more than 12 weeks. The recommended starting dose of Saxenda is 0.6 mg once a day, and the dose is gradually increased over several weeks to a maximum of 3 mg once a day, depending on how well the patient tolerates the medication and their weight loss progress.
Saxenda is not a magic solution for weight loss:
Saxenda is not a magic solution for weight loss but is intended to be used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Clinical studies have shown that patients who use Saxenda as part of a weight management program lose more weight than those who do not use Saxenda. However, weight loss results can vary depending on individual factors such as starting weight, diet, exercise, and adherence to the medication regimen.
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Saxenda may cause side effects:
Like all medications, Saxenda may cause side effects. The most common side effects of Saxenda are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), headache, and decreased appetite. These side effects are usually mild to moderate in severity and improve over time. Rare but serious side effects of Saxenda include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, kidney problems, and suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Patients should speak to their healthcare provider if they experience any side effects while taking Saxenda.
Saxenda is not for everyone:
Saxenda is not suitable for everyone. Patients who have a history of thyroid cancer, have an allergy to liraglutide, or have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) should not use Saxenda. Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also not use Saxenda. Patients with a history of pancreatitis or a history of gallbladder problems should use Saxenda with caution and under close medical supervision. Patients should speak to their healthcare provider to determine if Saxenda is right for them.
Photo by: DTAP Clinic
In summary, Saxenda is an injectable medication used for weight loss in adults who are obese or overweight and have at least one weight-related medical condition. It is approved for long-term use, but it is not a magic solution for weight loss and should be used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Saxenda may cause side effects, and it is not suitable for everyone. Patients should speak to their healthcare provider to determine if Saxenda is right for them.
If you are in need of weight loss medication, know that the best course of action is to get in touch with a weight loss specialist and a registered nutritionist dietitian who can help you reach your goals.