Saxenda® for Weight Loss

For compatible individuals struggling with weight management, Saxenda® has emerged as a viable solution.

Approved by the FDA, Saxenda® is a prescription medication that tackles hunger and helps regulate appetite. Saxenda is also approved for pediatric patients aged 12 years and older for weight management.

If you’re exploring weight loss options or already considering Saxenda®, this weight loss drug resources page by SANEMD, breaks down everything you need to know, from how it works to what side effects you might encounter.

Saxenda’s Takeaways:

FDA-approved for weight loss: Saxenda® is designed to help a subset of adults who are either obese or overweight. It’s most effective when combined with a lower-calorie diet and regular exercise.
- Obesity is associated with an increased risk of numerous health issues, including type 2 diabetes and hypertension.
Controls hunger hormones: The medication mimics hormones in the gut that signal when you’re full, which can curb appetite and support weight loss over time.
Potential side effects: Like any medication, Saxenda® can cause side effects. While mild symptoms like nausea or fatigue are common, serious side effects are rare.

What is Saxenda® Liraglutide, and How Does It Help with Weight Loss?

Saxenda®, or liraglutide (the generic name), is an injectable medication approved for weight loss by the FDA.

It’s prescribed for a subset of adult patients with a BMI of 30 or more (classified as obesity) or for those with a BMI of 27 or higher if they have additional health issues related to weight, like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or other weight-related comorbidities.

Unlike other weight loss drugs that target fat burning or metabolism, Saxenda® operates differently.

It functions by imitating a hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which is naturally produced in the gut after eating.

This hormone tells your brain that you’re full, which helps reduce cravings and control food intake.

Indications and Usage of Saxenda®

Saxenda® is specifically designed for chronic weight management in adult patients. It is most effective when used as part of a comprehensive weight-loss plan that includes a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Saxenda® is indicated for adults with an initial body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or greater, which is classified as obesity. It is also suitable for adults with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or greater, provided they have at least one weight-related comorbidity, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.

Who Should Use Saxenda®?

Saxenda® is intended for adult patients who are struggling with excess weight and have not been able to achieve significant weight loss through diet and exercise alone. It is particularly beneficial for those with a high BMI and weight-related medical problems. Before starting Saxenda®, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if it is the right option for you. Your doctor will evaluate your medical history, current health status, and weight-loss goals to ensure that Saxenda® is a safe and effective choice for your weight management journey.

Conditions and Recommendations

Saxenda® is not suitable for everyone. It is not indicated for the treatment of type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Additionally, it is not recommended for patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Patients treated with Saxenda® should be counseled about the potential risk of MTC and informed of the symptoms of thyroid tumors, such as a lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath. Always discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider to ensure that Saxenda® is a safe option for you.

How Saxenda® Works to Support Weight Loss

Saxenda®’s primary function is to help you manage hunger and cravings. You administer it once a day as a simple injection.

Over the first few weeks, your dosage is gradually increased to allow your body time to adjust.

Saxenda® helps certain individuals lose weight by reducing hunger and controlling food intake.

Here’s a breakdown of how Saxenda® works:

Hormone mimicry: Saxenda® mimics the effects of GLP-1, a hormone that helps slow digestion and sends signals to your brain that you’re full.
Lower calorie intake: By reducing hunger, you naturally eat less, which can lead to weight loss over time.
Supports long-term goals: Saxenda® isn’t meant to provide a quick fix. Instead, it potentially helps you achieve and maintain long-term weight loss when paired with lifestyle changes like better eating habits and regular physical activity.

To get the best results from Saxenda®, it’s important to know your Weight Loss Drug Type (quiz here), eat a healthier diet, and get consistent exercise.

Saxenda® works best as part of a comprehensive weight-loss plan rather than as a standalone solution.

The Health Benefits of Saxenda®

For people dealing with obesity or weight-related health concerns, Saxenda® can provide significant benefits beyond just helping shed pounds.

It is particularly effective for certain individuals facing weight-related medical problems, as it may help improve overall health outcomes.

Here are some of the key ways it may help improve overall health:

Better Blood Sugar Control: Saxenda® can help stabilize blood sugar levels, making it a good option for people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes.
Lower Cardiovascular Risks: By promoting weight loss and improving metabolic health, Saxenda® may reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
Enhanced Energy and Well-Being: Many users report feeling more energetic, sleeping better, and experiencing greater mobility as they lose weight.
Sustained Weight Loss: When used along with healthy lifestyle habits, Saxenda® can support long-term, sustainable weight loss, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight over time.

Dosage and Administration: What to Expect with Saxenda®

Saxenda® is easy to administer at home with an injectable pen.

Unlike some medications that need to be taken at specific times, Saxenda® can be taken at any time of day, whether with or without food.

But always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely when it comes to dosage and timing.

Gradual Dosage Increases

When starting Saxenda®, the dosage is increased slowly to reduce the chance of side effects like nausea. The maximum dosage of Saxenda® is 3 mg per day.

Here’s what the typical progression looks like:

Week 1: Start with 0.6 mg per day.
Week 2: Increase to 1.2 mg per day.
Week 3: Bump up to 1.8 mg per day.
Week 4: Move up to 2.4 mg per day.
Week 5 and onward: Maintain the full 3.0 mg daily dose.

By gradually increasing the dosage, your body can adjust better to the medication, reducing the likelihood of uncomfortable side effects.

Administering Saxenda®

Injecting Saxenda® is relatively simple. Here’s a quick guide on how to do it:

Prepare the pen: Prime your Saxenda® pen before the first use by selecting a dose of 0.6 mg and pressing the button to release the medication.
Choose an injection site: You can inject Saxenda® into your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate sites with each injection to avoid irritation.
Administer the dose: Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle, press the button, and wait a few seconds before removing the needle.
Dispose of the needle: Always use a fresh needle for each injection and dispose of used ones in a sharps container.

Storage and Handling

Proper storage and handling of Saxenda (liraglutide) are essential to ensuring its effectiveness.

Before the pen is used, it should be kept in the refrigerator at a temperature between 39°F and 46°F (4°C and 8°C).

After you begin using the pen, it can be kept at room temperature, which is between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C), for a maximum of 30 days.

It’s important not to freeze Saxenda®; if it becomes frozen, it should be discarded.

Additionally, keep the pen away from direct sunlight and heat.

After the first use, make sure to discard the pen after 30 days, even if there is still medication left.

Proper storage and handling will help maintain the medication’s efficacy and safety.

Potential Side Effects of Saxenda®

Like any medication, Saxenda® has potential side effects, but not everyone will experience them.

Stomach pain is a common side effect, especially when first starting the medication.

Being aware of these effects will help you decide if Saxenda® is the right choice for you.

Common Side Effects

The common side effects are typically mild and often get better as your body gets used to the medication. These side effects may include:

Nausea: Often the most reported side effect, especially in the early stages. Eating smaller meals and avoiding fatty foods can help manage this.
Vomiting: Some users may experience vomiting, particularly if they increase their dosage too quickly.
Digestive issues: Diarrhea or constipation can occur but usually resolve over time.
Fatigue: Some users report feeling tired, particularly when first starting the medication.

These side effects usually ease as your body gets used to Saxenda®. If they persist or worsen, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

Serious Side Effects

In some instances, more severe side effects may arise, requiring medical attention. These may include:

Pancreatitis: Symptoms like severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting could signal pancreatitis and require immediate medical attention.
Gallbladder issues: Rapid weight loss can sometimes lead to gallstones or gallbladder disease.
Elevated heart rate: Some people report a faster heart rate while using Saxenda®, and your doctor may monitor this.
Kidney problems: Dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea can cause kidney issues, so stay hydrated and watch for swelling or changes in urination.

Before starting Saxenda®, it’s important to know your Weight Loss Drug Type (quiz here), and fully disclose your medical history to your healthcare provider to ensure that it is safe for you.

Safety Information

Saxenda® (liraglutide) comes with a boxed warning due to the risk of thyroid cancer.

This is a serious side effect that requires careful consideration.

If you have a history of thyroid cancer or thyroid tumors, it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider before starting Saxenda®.

As the medication may increase the risk of developing thyroid cancer, your doctor will need to evaluate whether Saxenda® is a safe option for you.

Always discuss your full medical history to ensure the best possible care.

Warnings and Precautions

While Saxenda® (liraglutide) can be a promising tool for weight loss, it may cause serious side effects, like those listed above, in some patients.

Additionally, be aware of the signs of an allergic reaction, which can be life-threatening.

Symptoms such as trouble breathing and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat, or hives require immediate medical attention.

Always monitor your health closely and report any concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.

Interactions and Contraindications

Saxenda® (liraglutide) may interact with other medications, foods, and substances, potentially affecting its efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects.

Remember to let your doctor know about all the medications you’re taking, such as prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements.

Also, Saxenda® should not be used by individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).

Additionally, if you have a known hypersensitivity to liraglutide or any of the inactive substances, you should not use Saxenda®.

Your healthcare provider will help you determine if Saxenda® is safe for you based on your medical history.

Saxenda® and Long-Term Chronic Weight Management

Saxenda® is not a magic solution for rapid weight loss.

It’s intended to be part of a long-term weight management strategy that includes lifestyle changes.

Clinical trials show significant weight loss compared to baseline body weight.

When paired with a balanced diet and regular exercise, Saxenda® can help individuals achieve sustainable weight loss.

What Results Can You Expect?

Clinical trials show that Saxenda® can help people lose 5-10% of their body weight within a year.

Studies also show significant reductions in body mass index (BMI) among users of Saxenda®.

However, individual results may vary based on your Weight Loss Drug Type, diet, exercise, and adherence to the treatment plan.

Here’s what some studies have found:

Sustained results: Participants who used Saxenda® for 56 weeks, alongside lifestyle changes, lost significantly more weight than those who did not.
Continued use: For some, long-term use of Saxenda® is necessary to maintain weight loss. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress and help you decide whether ongoing use is right for you.

Clinical Evidence Supporting Saxenda®

The effectiveness of Saxenda® for weight loss is supported by robust clinical evidence. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated that Saxenda® leads to significant and clinically meaningful reductions in body weight compared to placebo. These studies highlight the importance of using Saxenda® in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management.

Key Studies and Findings

The clinical trials for Saxenda® have shown impressive results. In four major RCTs, Saxenda® 3 mg significantly increased the likelihood of achieving a 5% or greater reduction in body weight. The most common adverse reactions (≥5%) associated with Saxenda® include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and injection site reactions.

In a 56-week study, participants who took Saxenda® 3 mg experienced a mean weight loss of 5.5% from baseline, compared to just 1.8% with placebo. Another study reported a mean weight loss of 6.4% from baseline with Saxenda® 3 mg, compared to 2.3% with placebo. These results underscore the potential of Saxenda® to help patients achieve significant weight loss.

Moreover, Saxenda® has been shown to improve glycemic control and reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, it is important to note that Saxenda® is not indicated for the treatment of type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

Overall, the clinical evidence supports the use of Saxenda® as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management in adult patients with an initial BMI of 30 kg/m² or greater (obese) or an initial BMI of 27 kg/m² or greater (overweight) in the presence of at least one weight-related comorbidity.

Pairing Saxenda® with Lifestyle Changes

For the best results, Saxenda® should be used as part of a holistic weight-loss strategy. This means:

Healthy diet: Focus on whole foods and cut back on processed high-calorie options.
Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, such as walking, cycling, or swimming.
Behavioral support: Some people benefit from behavioral counseling or support groups to help them stay on track and avoid emotional eating.

Special Considerations

Certain medical conditions require special consideration when using Saxenda (liraglutide).

If you have a history of pancreatitis or gallbladder problems, Saxenda® may not be the best option for you.

Additionally, patients with a personal or family history of thyroid cancer or thyroid tumors should be cautious, as Saxenda® may increase the risk of thyroid cancer.

Always discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider to ensure that Saxenda® is a safe and appropriate choice for your weight management needs.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Saxenda® (liraglutide) is not recommended for use in pregnant women due to limited data on its safety during pregnancy.

It is not known whether Saxenda® can cause harm to an unborn baby, so it’s best to avoid using it if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Similarly, Saxenda® is not recommended for breastfeeding women, as it is unclear whether the medication passes into breast milk and what effects it might have on a nursing baby.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss alternative weight management options with your healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Saxenda®

Below are our most commonly asked questions about Saxenda however, if you require a more extensive list and don’t find your questions answered below, please check out our Saxenda FAQ page here.

1. How long does it take to see results with Saxenda®?

Results vary, but compatible individuals may start to notice weight loss within the first few weeks of treatment.

The greatest weight loss typically occurs within the first three to six months, especially after reaching the full dose of 3.0 mg daily.

2. Is Saxenda® safe to use long-term?

Yes, Saxenda® has been studied for long-term use, and certain individuals continue using it to maintain their weight loss.

However, regular check-ins with your healthcare provider are necessary to ensure that it remains the right treatment for you.

3. Can I take Saxenda® if I have weight-related medical problems?

Saxenda® is generally safe for a subset of individuals with common weight-related conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.

However, if you have a history of thyroid cancer or pancreatitis, you should consult your doctor before starting.

4. What can I do to minimize side effects?

To reduce common side effects like nausea or gastrointestinal issues, try eating smaller, more frequent meals and staying hydrated.

If symptoms persist, talk to your healthcare provider about adjusting your dosage.

5. Will I regain weight if I stop taking Saxenda®?

Without maintaining a reduced-calorie diet and regular exercise routine, you might regain some of the weight lost after stopping Saxenda®.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial to avoid regaining excess weight after stopping Saxenda®.

For long-term success, many people continue using Saxenda® alongside healthy habits.

Conclusion

Saxenda® can be a helpful tool for certain individuals struggling with weight loss, especially when paired with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise.

While it has potential side effects, many users find that the benefits, improved energy, better health, and sustainable weight loss, may outweigh the risks.

If you’re thinking about trying Saxenda®, talk with your healthcare provider to see if it’s a good fit for your weight-loss journey.

References

https://www.saxenda.com/

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18595-liraglutide-injection-weight-management

https://lifestylemedicalcenters.com/saxenda-liraglutide/#:~:text=What%20are%20the%20health%20benefits,%2C%20cholesterol%2C%20and%20A1c%20levels.