What Is Saxenda?
Saxenda is a prescription medication used for weight management in adults and children aged 12 years and older who have obesity or are overweight and have at least one weight-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. Saxenda contains the active ingredient Liraglutide, which is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps regulate appetite and food intake by mimicking a hormone in the body that helps control hunger. When used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, Saxenda can help individuals lose weight and maintain their weight loss over time.
How Does Saxenda Work?
Saxenda works by mimicking the action of a naturally occurring hormone in the body called Glucagon-like Peptide-1 (GLP-1). This hormone plays a key role in regulating appetite and food intake by signaling the brain to feel full and satisfied after eating. Saxenda helps reduce hunger, control appetite, and decrease food intake. By doing so, Saxenda assists individuals in achieving and maintaining weight loss when used as part of a comprehensive weight management plan that includes diet and exercise.
Benefits of Using Saxenda
Effective Weight Loss
Saxenda has been shown to help individuals lose significant amounts of weight when used alongside a healthy, reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity. It works by reducing hunger and controlling appetite, making it easier to stick to a calorie-controlled eating plan.
Convenient Injectable Form
Saxenda is administered through a once-daily injection, which can be self-administered at home. The pen is designed for easy and comfortable use, with adjustable dosing to help you reach your weight loss goals gradually.
Long-Term Weight Management
Saxenda helps individuals not only lose weight but also maintain their weight loss over time. By controlling appetite and reducing cravings, Saxenda can help prevent overeating and support long-term weight management efforts.
Improve Weight-Related Health Conditions
In addition to helping with weight loss, Saxenda has been shown to improve various weight-related health conditions, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can have significant benefits for overall health and well-being.
Uses of Saxenda
Saxenda is prescribed for weight management in individuals who are:
- Adults with a BMI of 30 or greater (obesity), or
- Adults with a BMI of 27 or greater (overweight) and have at least one weight-related health condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
It is used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to promote weight loss and help maintain weight loss over time.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Saxenda is available in the following dosage form:
- Saxenda 6 mg/pen (Liraglutide)
The dosing schedule will start at a low dose and gradually increase to minimize side effects and help your body adjust to the medication. The ideal dosage and treatment plan will be determined by your healthcare provider.
How to Use Saxenda
Prepare the Pen
Before using Saxenda, wash your hands thoroughly and attach a new needle to the prefilled pen. Prime the pen by dialling the dose to the starting mark and pressing the button to ensure the medication is ready for use.
Administer the Injection
Inject Saxenda under the skin (subcutaneously) once daily, at any time of the day, with or without food. Common injection sites include the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate injection sites to avoid irritation.
Dispose of Needles Safely
After use, dispose of the needle safely in a proper sharps container. Do not reuse needles, and always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for safe disposal.
Storage Instructions
Store the Saxenda pen in the refrigerator (36°F to 46°F / 2°C to 8°C) until first use. After first use, Saxenda can be kept at room temperature for up to 30 days. Keep the pen out of direct heat and sunlight, and always store it away from children.
Saxenda Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Decreased appetite
- Low blood sugar (especially in those using other medications for diabetes)
Serious Side Effects:
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
- Gallbladder problems, including gallstones
- Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, difficulty breathing)
- Kidney problems
- Increased heart rate
If you experience any of these serious side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Saxenda Overdose
Over using Saxenda than prescribed is not recommended as it can lead to severe side effects. Saxenda is typically taken once a week. Stick to the recommended dosage and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your medication or give us a call to speak to the next available Pharmacist from our contracted licensed pharmacy.
Saxenda Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Saxenda, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for managing missed doses.
Important Safety Information for Saxenda
- Indications: Liraglutide is prescribed for weight management in adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher (classified as obese) or 27 kg/m² or higher (classified as overweight) with at least one weight-related condition.
- Limitations of Use: Liraglutide is not suitable for the treatment of type 1 or type 2 diabetes and should not be used with other GLP-1 receptor agonist medications.
- Thyroid Tumor Risk: Similar to other GLP-1 receptor agonists, Liraglutide carries a cautionary note regarding potential thyroid C-cell tumors. Therefore, it is contraindicated for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2.
- Precautions: Before initiating Liraglutide, patients should thoroughly discuss their medical background with their healthcare provider, particularly if they have a history of pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, or alcohol misuse.
For the safe and effective use of Saxenda, it is crucial to follow the usage instructions closely, be aware of potential side effects, and adhere to the important safety information. Regular monitoring and communication with a healthcare provider will help manage any risks associated with Liraglutide and ensure it is part of a comprehensive weight management strategy.
Contact Information
For comprehensive support, please reach out to us via our toll-free number at 1-888-821-0245 or send a fax to 1-888-338-6690. You can also email us at info@365scriptcare.com.
Our dedicated team is available to assist you Monday through Friday, from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm CST, and on weekends from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm CST. We’re here for you every day of the year to cater to your needs.
For fast assistance, please feel free to contact our customer support team during regular business hours. This allows you to interact directly with our team for immediate help with:
- order status
- prescription status
- product inquiries
- method of payment inquiries
- backorder updates
All orders take approximately 7-10 business days to receive from the date shipped. However, from November 15th to January 15th, orders may take 10 to 14 business days to receive from the date shipped as the holiday season is in full effect. Canada Post and USPS have removed their shipping guarantee during the holiday season. To ensure you receive your package in a timely manner, please place your order prior to having a low inventory at home so you have enough product when your order arrives at your residence! We thank you in advance for your cooperation.
FAQs
Who can use Saxenda?
How is Saxenda administered?
Are there any side effects of Saxenda?
Common Side effects for Saxenda include the following:
– Nausea
– Diarrhea
– Constipation
– Headache
– Vomiting
– Low blood sugar
More serious side effects can occur and should be discussed with your primary healthcare provider.