What Is Saxenda?
Saxenda is a prescription injectable medication containing liraglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It’s FDA-approved to aid weight loss and help maintain a healthy weight in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) plus at least one weight-related condition (e.g., hypertension, type 2 diabetes).
How Saxenda Works
Appetite Regulation: Saxenda mimics a natural gut hormone that tells your brain you’re full, reducing hunger.
Slowed Gastric Emptying: It delays how quickly food leaves your stomach, helping you eat smaller portions.
Blood Sugar Control: By enhancing insulin release when needed, it helps stabilize blood glucose—beneficial for users with type 2 diabetes.
Beginner-Friendly Dosage Guide
Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Week Daily Dose (Subcutaneous Injection)
1 0.6 mg (one injection)
2 1.2 mg (one injection)
3 1.8 mg (one injection)
4 2.4 mg (one injection)
5+ 3.0 mg (maintenance dose, one injection daily)
Titration: Dose is increased weekly by 0.6 mg until reaching 3.0 mg.
Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible—do not double up.
Duration: Many patients use Saxenda long-term under medical supervision.
How to Inject Saxenda Safely
Prepare the Pen: Inspect the solution—should be clear, colorless, and free of particles.
Select Injection Site: Rotate sites on your abdomen, upper thigh, or upper arm.
Clean & Inject: Wipe the site with an alcohol swab; inject at a 90° angle; hold for 6 seconds.
Dispose Properly: Use a sharps container for used pens and needles.
Storage: Keep unused pens in the refrigerator (2–8 °C); after first use, store at room temperature and use within 30 days.
Common Side Effects
Most side effects are mild and occur during dose escalation:
Nausea & Vomiting
Diarrhea or Constipation
Headache or Fatigue
Injection-Site Reactions: Redness, itching, or mild pain
Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): Especially if used with other diabetes meds
When to Seek Help:
If you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, signs of gallbladder issues (e.g., severe upper-right pain), or symptoms of pancreatitis (e.g., sudden stomach pain radiating to your back), contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Tips for Best Results
Combine with Lifestyle Changes: Pair Saxenda with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Stay Hydrated: Water can help alleviate GI side effects like nausea.
Track Your Progress: Keep a journal of your weight, appetite changes, and any side effects.
Communicate with Your Doctor: Report any bothersome effects or concerns right away and follow up regularly.
