Saxenda

Saxenda: Weight Loss Treatment

What is Saxenda?

Saxenda is a prescription medication designed to help adults lose weight. It contains the active ingredient liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, originally developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Saxenda mimics a hormone in the intestines that signals to the brain that a person is full, as explained by Dr James Anderson, a leading endocrinologist. Essentially, Saxenda helps individuals feel satiated, reducing their caloric intake and promoting weight loss.

How does Saxenda work?

Saxenda works by interacting with the GLP-1 receptors in the brain to help with weight loss. The interaction creates a feeling of fullness, which helps individuals eat less and lose body weight. Saxenda slows down gastric emptying, thus prolonging satiety and controlling blood sugar levels. The medication stimulates insulin production and inhibits glucagon secretion, which regulates blood glucose levels, as explained by Dr Sarah Johnson, a metabolic health specialist. The multifaceted effect on the body allows Saxenda to be useful in managing weight and maintaining overall health.

How effective is it?

Saxenda is highly effective, with most users losing about 5% of their weight in 12 weeks. Several studies have been conducted to measure Saxenda's effectiveness in helping aid patients lose weight. In a large clinical trial, it was shown that people using Saxenda lost an average of 5-10% of their body weight over a period of 12 months. In clinical settings, patients who respond well to Saxenda often demonstrate significant weight loss in the first few months of treatment, as explained by Dr Anna Peterson, an obesity specialist. If 5% of body weight has not been lost in the first 12 weeks, patients are typically taken off of Saxenda.

What does Saxenda do to your body?

Saxenda primarily affects the body's sense of fullness and its management of glucose levels to aid in reducing body weight. By mimicking the functions of the naturally occurring hormone GLP-1, it helps to slow gastric emptying and enhance insulin secretion. The drug helps regulate one's appetite and metabolism, ultimately leading to weight loss, as stated by Dr Robert Jones, a leading figure in nutritional science. Saxenda is a weight management solution that goes beyond simple calorie counting, offering a physiological approach to weight loss, helping patients to lose weight effectively.

How long does Saxenda stay in your system?

Saxenda has a metabolic lifespan of about 13 hours and stays in the system for 2 to 3 days. Understanding the drug's metabolic cycle helps healthcare professionals manage dosage timings and potential side effects when planning the most effective course of a patient's weight loss journey.

How long does Saxenda take to work?

Saxenda starts working immediately after the first injection, but the noticeable effects on weight loss take several weeks. Patients often start noticing weight loss within two to three weeks of consistent use, as explained by Dr Andrew Baker, an expert in weight loss therapies. However, every individual is different, and the time to achieve noticeable results vary.

How much weight can you lose on Saxenda?

Users on Saxenda on average lose 5% of their initial weight after the first 12 weeks. The amount of weight loss with Saxenda varies significantly from person to person, it is dependent on starting body weight. Clinical trials have found that, on average, patients lose 5-10% of their initial body weight over a year. However, real-world results are influenced by various factors including diet, exercise, and adherence to the medication regimen, as emphasised by Dr. Helen Richards, a renowned obesity specialist. 

How long can you stay on Saxenda?

The duration of treatment with Saxenda is determined by a healthcare professional based on the patient's response and tolerance to the drug. There is no specific cut-off time for using Saxenda and as long as patients are benefiting without experiencing severe side effects, long-term use is typically safe and effective, as advised by Dr. Laura Thompson, a respected endocrinologist. It is, however, crucial to maintain regular check-ups to monitor the drug's effectiveness and potential side effects. Saxenda is recommended in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and exercise to tackle body weight issues from a holistic approach.

Will doctors prescribe Saxenda?

Yes, Saxenda is indeed prescribed by doctors, but it's typically reserved for specific cases to lose weight. The NHS recommends Saxenda for adults who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or more, or those with a BMI of 27 to 30 who have other health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes. Prescribing Saxenda is a decision made in conjunction with the patient, considering their overall health, weight loss history, and the potential benefits and risks of the medication, as explained by Dr Simon Grant, a renowned weight loss obesity specialist.

Saxenda: Dosage & Usage

Saxenda Dosage

The recommended starting dosage of Saxenda is 0.6 mg per day for one week. After the initial week, the dose must be increased gradually by 0.6 mg per day each week until a dose of 3.0 mg per day is reached. The titration period is critical in minimising side effects and optimising weight loss and it must not be rushed, as advised by Dr Emily Johnson, a weight loss specialist. Implementing healthy habits is crucial to help a user lose weight effectively.

How do I inject Saxenda?

Saxenda is injected subcutaneously, which means it is injected into the fatty layer beneath the skin to lose weight. The injection must not be administered intravenously or intramuscularly. Proper injection technique is critical to ensure the medication is effectively absorbed, states Dr Patricia Lee, a diabetes educator. For further assistance, consult with a healthcare provider. 

Where can I inject Saxenda?

Saxenda is injected into several body areas, including the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotating injection sites is important to minimise potential tissue damage and maximise absorption to lose weight correctly, explains Dr Mark Evans, a weight loss specialist.

Who can use Saxenda?

Saxenda is intended for use by adults with a BMI of 30 or more, or those with a BMI of 27 to 30 who have other health conditions like type 2 diabetes to help with losing weight. Saxenda must be used alongside exercise and a reduced-calorie diet.

How many pens will I need to complete my dose?

About three pens per month are needed in the beginning and five pens are needed for maintenance. The number of Saxenda pens required depends on the prescribed dosage, however, each Saxenda pen contains 18 mg of liraglutide and delivers doses of 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg, 2.4 mg, or 3.0 mg. At the maintenance dose of 3.0 mg per day, each pen lasts six days, therefore, approximately five pens are needed for a month's supply, as clarified by Dr. Robert Smith, a leading pharmacologist.

Will I need to change my diet when I’m using Saxenda?

Yes, implementing a balanced diet and exercise, a low-calorie diet is recommended when using Saxenda. The drug is most effective when used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and exercise. While Saxenda helps control appetite, making healthier food choices maximise weight loss and improve overall health, suggests Chloe Adams, a nutritional therapist.

How do you inject Saxenda?

Saxenda is injected using a pen device. Before injecting, ensure the skin is clean, and the pen is properly prepared. Follow these steps as outlined by Dr Samantha Brown, a renowned diabetes educator:

1. Remove the pen cap.
2. Attach a new needle to the pen and remove the outer and inner needle caps.
3. Perform a safety test by selecting the flow check setting and pressing the dose button until the '0' lines up with the dose pointer.
4. Select the dose by turning the dose selector.
5. Inject the medication by pinching the skin and inserting the needle at a 90-degree angle. Press the dose button until '0' lines up with the dose pointer.
6. Leave the needle in the skin for a count of six before removing it to ensure the full dose is delivered.

How long does a Saxenda pen last?

The duration for which a Saxenda pen lasts depends on the daily dosage, at the full dose of 3.0 mg per day, each pen, which contains 18 mg of liraglutide, lasts for six days. Therefore, for a month's treatment at the full dose, approximately five pens are required. It's important to store Saxenda pens properly to maintain their efficacy, advises Dr Lucy Walker, a clinical pharmacist.

Saxenda: Availability & Pricing

Can I buy Saxenda online?

Yes, Saxenda is available for purchase online from verified and authorised pharmacies. However, a prescription from a healthcare provider is necessary to purchase Saxenda. The importance of using reputable online pharmacies to ensure the safety and efficacy of the medication, stresses Dr Rachel Thompson, a clinical pharmacist.

Can I get Saxenda on NHS?

Yes, the NHS does provide Saxenda under certain circumstances. It's typically prescribed to individuals with a BMI of 30 or more, or those with a BMI of 27 to 30 who have other health conditions such as type 2 diabetes. The decision to prescribe Saxenda is based on individual patient circumstances and the potential benefits and risks, as explained by Dr Simon Grant, a leading obesity specialist.

Do I need a prescription for Saxenda?

Yes, Saxenda is a prescription-only medication. A healthcare provider must evaluate the person's health and weight loss needs to determine if Saxenda is an appropriate treatment option. The process includes evaluating one's initial body mass index and setting a precise starting dose. Self-prescribing or using Saxenda without medical supervision leads to serious health risks, warns Dr Sarah Edwards, a renowned endocrinologist.

Can you get Saxenda for free on the NHS?

Yes, Saxenda is available free on the NHS, however, it depends on individual circumstances, including specific medical criteria and local NHS funding decisions. Typically, a person must have a BMI of 35 and above to potentially qualify for services. It is advised to speak to a healthcare provider to understand to see what options are available. 

Where is the cheapest place to buy Saxenda?

The cost of Saxenda varies based on location and individual pharmacies. It's essential to compare prices from verified pharmacies and consider any additional costs such as shipping fees. Always ensure that the pharmacy is reputable to avoid counterfeit medications.

Buy Saxenda online cheap?

Yes, Saxenda is affordable on online pharmacies such as Welzo. While searching for cheaper options to buy Saxenda online, it's critical to use only verified, authorised online pharmacies to ensure the medication's safety and efficacy. Always consult a healthcare provider before making changes to the medication source or regimen.

Does Boots have Saxenda?

Yes, Boots offer Saxenda as part of its repertoire of weight loss treatments.

Does Asda offer Saxenda?

Yes, Asda offers Saxenda pens to lose weight. Saxenda is available for order through the Asda Pharmacy service.

Saxenda: Side Effects Continued

Does stopping Saxenda cause any side effects?

Yes, upon discontinuation, some individuals may experience withdrawal effects such as nausea, vomiting, or a return of appetite. Stopping Saxenda suddenly might lead to withdrawal symptoms; hence, a gradual reduction under medical supervision is often recommended, as advised by Dr David Thompson, a clinical endocrinologist.

Do you gain weight after stopping Saxenda?

Yes, if healthy habits are stopped along with Saxenda, weight gain occurs. Weight gain following the discontinuation of Saxenda happens, particularly if lifestyle changes regarding diet and physical activity aren't maintained. Saxenda is not a cure for obesity, but a tool to help manage weight alongside lifestyle modifications, as explained by Nutritionist Dr. Lisa Anderson.

Is Saxenda safe?

Yes, Saxenda is safe. Saxenda has been approved for use by regulatory bodies like the FDA and European Medicines Agency, which means its benefits outweigh its risks for the approved population. However, like all medications, Saxenda has side effects, and its use must be monitored by a healthcare professional, by Dr Simon Taylor, a leading endocrinologist.

Can I use Saxenda if I have diabetes?

Yes, Saxenda is approved for use in individuals with type 2 diabetes. However, it is not a substitute for insulin or other diabetes medications. Saxenda and other diabetes medications serve different purposes and must be used as directed by a healthcare provider, as recommended by Dr Angela Davis, a respected diabetologist.

Alternative & Related Treatments

There are alternative weight loss treatments available on the market, but Saxenda remains a popular option with patients losing weight in conjunction with diet and exercise. It is essential to note that a calorie-controlled diet and exercise play a critical role in lowering body weight.

Are Saxenda and Victoza the same thing?

No, while Saxenda and Victoza contain the same active ingredient, liraglutide, they are not the same and are used for different purposes. Saxenda is used for weight management, while Victoza is used to manage type 2 diabetes. Despite their common active ingredient, Saxenda and Victoza are not interchangeable, as stated Dr Mark Green, a renowned endocrinologist.

Mysimba vs Saxenda

Mysimba and Saxenda are both medications used for weight management, but they contain different active ingredients and work in different ways. Mysimba contains naltrexone and bupropion, while Saxenda contains liraglutide. The choice between Mysimba and Saxenda depends on individual patient characteristics, tolerability, and the potential benefits and risks, as explained by Dr Sarah Thompson, a weight management specialist.

Saxenda: FAQs

Does Saxenda really work for weight loss?

Yes, Saxenda has been proven to work for weight loss. Clinical trials have shown that Saxenda, combined with a calorie-controlled diet and increased physical activity, lead to significant weight loss. Individual results vary, and Saxenda must be used as part of a comprehensive weight management program, by Dr Rebecca Collins, a weight management specialist.

How much weight can you lose on Saxenda in a week?

On average a person on Saxenda loses about 1 to 2 pounds per week. Weight loss results vary among individuals and depend on factors like a calorie-controlled diet, physical activity, and adherence to the medication regimen. Weight loss must be gradual, sustainable and implemented in conjunction with diet and exercise.

Does this product come with needles and a sharps container?

Saxenda pens do not typically come with needles or a sharps container. These items need to be obtained separately. Patients using Saxenda must have access to appropriate sharps disposal containers to ensure used needles are discarded safely, advises Dr Laura Williams, a diabetes educator.

How should I dispose of my sharps bin?

Sharps bins must be disposed of according to local regulations. Many pharmacies, hospitals, or community health centres provide disposal services for sharps bins. Improper disposal of sharps poses a risk to public health, so it's important to dispose of them responsibly, as explained by Dr Emma Roberts, a clinical pharmacist.