Saxenda, with FDA approval for weight control, is an injectable prescription medicine that helps reduce and maintain body weight.
What is Saxenda and How it Works
SAXENDA is a medication used for chronic weight management in adults with overweight or obesity. It contains liraglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics the effects of the hormone GLP-1. It regulates appetite and food intake by activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain, which leads to increased feelings of fullness and reduced hunger.
What is Differences of Saxenda from Other Weight Loss Drugs
SAXENDA is different from other weight loss drugs because it is specifically approved for weight management in adults with overweight or obesity. It targets multiple aspects of weight loss by reducing appetite, increasing satiety, and slowing down gastric emptying. Other GLP-1 receptor agonists are primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes.
Who are the Suitable Candidates for Saxenda?
SAXENDA is suitable for adults with overweight or obesity who have a BMI of 30 kg/m² or greater, or a BMI of 27 kg/m² or greater with at least one weight-related comorbidity such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, or dyslipidemia. It is not recommended for use in individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2, or those with a history of pancreatitis.
What is the Dosage and Administration of Saxenda?
SAXENDA is administered subcutaneously once daily in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm at any time of day without regard to the timing of meals. The recommended starting dose is 0.6 mg per day for one week, followed by an increase to 1.2 mg per day, and then to 1.8 mg per day. The maintenance dose is 3 mg per day, which is achieved after 5 weeks. It’s important to follow the dosing instructions carefully and not to exceed the recommended dose.
What are the Side Effects with Saxenda?
Common side effects of SAXENDA include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, low blood sugar, headache, and decreased appetite. Long-term use may increase the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors in rats but this has not been established in humans yet. Serious side effects may include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, kidney problems, and thyroid tumors. It’s important to talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have about using SAXENDA and its potential side effects.
Is it safe to use SAXENDA for long-term weight management?
SAXENDA has been approved for long-term use by the FDA and is specifically designed for adults with overweight or obesity who have struggled to lose weight with diet and exercise alone. However, as with any medication, there may be risks associated with long-term use. It is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using SAXENDA for long-term weight management.
Taking Saxenda with Other Medications
SAXENDA should not be coadministered with other liraglutide-containing products or with any other GLP-1 receptor agonist. It’s important to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal preparations, before starting treatment with SAXENDA. Your doctor can help determine if SAXENDA is safe and appropriate for you to use in combination with other medications.
Pregnancy and Lactation
The safety and effectiveness of SAXENDA in pregnant women have not been established. It is also not known whether liraglutide, the active ingredient in SAXENDA, is excreted in human milk. It’s important to talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before using SAXENDA.
How often should I take SAXENDA?
SAXENDA should be taken once daily at any time of the day, with or without food. It is important to take SAXENDA as directed by your doctor and not to exceed the recommended dose.
Is SAXENDA a prescription-only medicine?
According to Cap. 138 Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, it is a prescription medication that is only available through a doctor.
Can I drink alcohol while taking SAXENDA?
Alcohol consumption should be limited while taking SAXENDA. Drinking alcohol may increase the risk of developing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and may also decrease the effectiveness of SAXENDA for weight loss. It is important to talk to your doctor about your alcohol consumption and any potential risks before starting treatment with SAXENDA.
Can I stop taking SAXENDA if I don’t see results?
It is important to continue taking SAXENDA as directed by your doctor, even if you do not see immediate results. It may take several weeks to see significant weight loss, and stopping treatment prematurely may affect the effectiveness of the medication. If you have concerns about the effectiveness of SAXENDA, it’s important to talk to your doctor before making any changes to your treatment plan.
Can I reuse needles or pens for SAXENDA injections?
No, needles and pens should not be reused for SAXENDA injections. It is important to use a new needle and a new pen for each injection to prevent infection or contamination. Used needles and pens should be disposed of in a sharps container and not placed in regular household trash.
Can I use SAXENDA for weight loss if I do not have a BMI of 30 or greater?
SAXENDA is approved for use in adults with a BMI of 30 or greater, or a BMI of 27 or greater with at least one weight-related comorbidity such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, or dyslipidemia. It is not recommended for use in individuals with a lower BMI, and there may be other weight loss options that are more appropriate. It’s important to talk to your doctor about your weight loss goals and any potential treatment options.
How can I determine if Saxenda is working effectively for my weight-loss goals?
To determine if Saxenda is working effectively for your weight-loss goals, you can consider the following steps:
Weight Loss Progress: Monitor your weight loss progress regularly. Your doctor may set specific weight-loss goals for you to achieve after a certain period of Saxenda treatment, typically 16 weeks. If you have lost 5% or more of your initial body weight, it is a positive indicator that Saxenda is effective for you.
Body Measurements: In addition to weight, track other body measurements such as waist circumference, body fat percentage, and clothing size changes. These measurements can provide a more comprehensive view of your progress.
Health Parameters: Keep track of other health parameters such as blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and cholesterol levels. Improvements in these parameters can indicate the positive impact of weight loss on your overall health.
Appetite Control: Pay attention to changes in your appetite and feelings of hunger. Saxenda works by regulating appetite, so if you notice a decrease in hunger and better control over food intake, it may indicate that the medication is effective for you.
Consult Your Doctor: Regularly consult with your doctor to discuss your progress, any challenges you may be facing, and to adjust your treatment plan if needed. Your doctor can provide valuable insights and guidance on the effectiveness of Saxenda for your weight-loss goals.
By monitoring these factors and maintaining open communication with your doctor, you can assess the effectiveness of Saxenda in helping you achieve your weight-loss goals.
What should I do if I have not lost 5% of my body weight after 16 weeks on Saxenda?
If you have not lost 5% of your body weight after 16 weeks on Saxenda, here are some steps you can take:
Consult Your Doctor: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor to discuss your progress. Your doctor can evaluate your response to Saxenda and may recommend adjustments to your treatment plan.
Review Your Treatment Plan: Work with your doctor to review your current treatment plan, including your dosage, diet, physical activity level, and any other factors that may be impacting your weight loss progress.
Explore Alternative Treatment Methods: If Saxenda has not resulted in the desired weight loss after 16 weeks, your doctor may suggest exploring alternative weight-loss strategies or medications that may be more effective for you.
Address Potential Barriers: Identify any potential barriers that may be hindering your weight loss progress, such as dietary habits, physical activity levels, stress, or medical conditions. Making adjustments in these areas can help improve your response to Saxenda.
Set Realistic Goals: Work with your doctor to set realistic and achievable weight-loss goals based on your individual circumstances and health status. Adjusting your goals can help you stay motivated and focused on making progress.
Monitor Other Health Parameters: Continue to monitor other health parameters such as blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and cholesterol levels. Even if you have not achieved the desired weight loss, improvements in these parameters can still indicate positive changes in your health.
Stay Committed: Stay committed to your weight-loss journey and follow the guidance of your doctor. Consistency in following your treatment plan, including healthy eating and regular physical activity, is key to achieving long-term success.
By taking these steps and working closely with your doctor, you can address challenges in your weight-loss journey and explore alternative strategies to help you reach your goals effectively.
Do I need to track other important health measures, such as blood pressure and blood glucose levels, while on a weight-loss journey?
It is suggested to track other important health measures, such as blood pressure and blood glucose levels, while on a weight-loss journey, consider the following steps:
Regular Monitoring: Measure your blood pressure and blood glucose levels regularly as advised by your doctor. Keeping track of these parameters can help you understand how your body is responding to weight loss efforts and medication like Saxenda.
Use Monitoring Devices: Invest in a home blood pressure monitor and a blood glucose monitor if recommended by your doctor. These devices allow you to check your levels at home and provide valuable data for monitoring your health.
Maintain a Health Journal: Keep a health journal to record your blood pressure readings, blood glucose levels, weight, and any other relevant health information. This journal can help you track trends over time and provide useful information for discussions with your doctor.
Follow a Healthy Diet: Stick to a balanced and nutritious diet that supports healthy blood pressure and blood glucose levels. Limiting sodium, sugar, and processed foods can help maintain these parameters within a healthy range.
Engage in Regular Physical Activity: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine, as exercise can help improve blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and overall cardiovascular health. Consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.
Attend Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor to have your blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and other health parameters monitored professionally. Your doctor can offer guidance and adjustments to your treatment plan based on these measurements.
Communicate with Your Doctor: Keep your doctor informed about any changes in your health parameters or concerns you may have. Open communication can help ensure that your treatment plan is tailored to your individual needs and goals.
By actively monitoring and managing your blood pressure and blood glucose levels in conjunction with your weight-loss journey, you can optimize your overall health and well-being. Remember to work closely with your doctor to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses all aspects of your health.
What are healthy eating and physical activity suggestions?
To support your weight-loss journey and overall health, here are some suggestions for eating healthy and increasing physical activity:
Eating Healthy:
Portioned Plate: Use a portioned plate method where half of your plate consists of vegetables and fruits, a quarter is for whole grains, and the remaining quarter is for proteins. This balanced approach can help control portion sizes and promote nutrient-rich meals.
Reduce Amounts: Instead of completely eliminating your favorite foods, focus on reducing portion sizes. Moderation is key to maintaining a healthy diet while still enjoying the foods you love.
Regular Meal Times: Establish regular meal times to prevent overeating later in the day. Consistency in meal timing can help regulate hunger and prevent excessive snacking.
Healthy Snacking: Set aside small portions of healthy snacks to curb cravings between meals. Opt for nutritious options like fruits, nuts, yogurt, or whole-grain crackers.
Increased Activity:
Active Lifestyle: Incorporate regular physical activity into your daily routine to manage weight and improve overall health. Choose activities that you enjoy and can sustain in the long term.
Walking: Start with a manageable goal of walking for 5 to 10 minutes and gradually increase the duration until you reach 30 minutes. Walking is a simple yet effective way to increase physical activity levels.
Stair Climbing: Use stairs whenever possible instead of elevators or escalators. Climbing stairs is a convenient way to add physical activity to your day.
Active Commuting: If feasible, consider getting off public transportation one or two stops earlier and walking the remaining distance. Parking further away from your destination can also increase daily activity levels.
Variety in Activities: Engage in a variety of physical activities such as stretching, yoga, swimming, cycling, gardening, or group fitness classes. Mixing up your routine can keep exercise interesting and enjoyable.
Consistency: Make physical activity a regular part of your routine by scheduling it into your day. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, as recommended by health guidelines.
By combining healthy eating habits with increased physical activity, you can enhance your weight-loss efforts, improve your overall health, and maintain long-term wellness. Remember to consult with your doctor before making significant changes to your diet or exercise routine.
What is the dosing schedule?
The dosing schedule for Saxenda typically involves a gradual increase in dosage over several weeks to help minimize side effects like nausea. Here is a general dosing schedule guide for Saxenda:
Week 1: Start with a dosage of 0.6 mg once daily.
Week 2: Increase the dosage to 1.2 mg once daily.
Week 3: Further increase the dosage to 1.8 mg once daily.
Week 4: Continue to increase the dosage to 2.4 mg once daily.
Week 5 and beyond: Reach the full dosage of 3.0 mg once daily.
Important Points to Remember:
It is crucial to follow the prescribed dosing schedule provided by your doctor.
Refill your prescription in a timely manner to ensure you stay on track with your treatment schedule.
Inject the dose as instructed, typically into the front of your stomach, the lateral side of your thighs, or your upper arms.
The dosing schedule is designed to help your body adjust to the medication gradually and reduce the likelihood of experiencing side effects.
If you have difficulty tolerating the medication or experience persistent side effects, consult your doctor. They may adjust your dosing schedule or provide additional guidance.
By following the recommended dosing schedule and guidelines provided by your doctor, you can effectively manage your Saxenda treatment and optimize its benefits for weight loss.
How to prepare the pen before injection?
Before injecting Saxenda using the pen, it is essential to prepare the pen properly. Here are the steps to prepare the Saxenda pen before injection:
Check the Saxenda Pen.
Verify that the pen label confirms it is your Saxenda pen.
Remove the pen cap and ensure that the Saxenda solution in the pen is clear and colourless.
Attach a New Needle.
Take a new needle and remove the paper tab.
Push the needle straight onto the pen and twist it until it is securely attached.
Remove both needle caps to expose the needle tip.
Check the Saxenda Flow.
Before the first injection with a new pen, check the flow of Saxenda.
Turn the dose selector to the flow check symbol (••).
Hold the pen with the needle pointing upward and press and hold the dose button. Ensure that a drop appears at the needle tip.
Select the Dose- Turn the dose selector to choose the appropriate dose you need to inject based on your prescribed dosage.
By following these steps to prepare the Saxenda pen before injection, you can ensure that the medication is administered correctly and safely. It is important to adhere to the instructions provided by your doctor and the detailed guidelines that accompany the Saxenda pen to optimize the effectiveness of your treatment.
How should I inject the Saxenda?
Injecting the Dose:
Insert the Needle-
Choose the injection site on the front of your stomach, the lateral side of your thighs, or your upper arms.
Insert the needle into the skin at a 90-degree angle.
Administer the Dose:
Press and hold the dose button on the Saxenda® pen until the dose counter returns to 0.
Keep the needle in the skin and count slowly to 6 before removing the needle.
Injection Areas:
The recommended injection areas for Saxenda® include the front of the stomach, the lateral side of the thighs, or the upper arms. Rotate injection sites within these areas to prevent tissue damage.
Removing the Needle:
After the Injection, carefully push the needle into the outer needle cap.
Once the needle is covered, push the outer cap completely on to secure it.
Disposing of the Needle:
Unscrew the needle from the pen and dispose of it safely in a sharps container.
Put the pen back in storage after ensuring the needle is properly disposed of.
Additional Tips:
Always use a new needle for each injection to prevent contamination and ensure accurate dosing.
Follow the dosing schedule provided by your healthcare provider to maintain consistency in your treatment.
If you experience any difficulties or have concerns about the injection process, consult your healthcare provider for guidance and support.
By following these steps for injecting the dose, selecting appropriate injection areas, and safely removing the needle after each use, you can effectively administer Saxenda® using the Saxenda® pen as part of your weight management regimen.
Tell me more about the Saxenda pen.
The Saxenda pen is a convenient and user-friendly device used for administering Saxenda (liraglutide) injections, a medication prescribed for weight management. Here is an introduction to the Saxenda pen and its key components:
Usage Frequency: The Saxenda pen is designed for once-daily injections and can be used at any time of the day, irrespective of meals. It is recommended to administer Saxenda at the same time each day to establish a routine.
Components of the Saxenda Pen:
Dose Selector: Used to choose the desired dose for injection.
Dose Pointer: Indicates the selected dose on the pen.
Pen Cap: Protects the medication from light and should always be replaced after use.
Dose Counter: Displays the selected dose for injection.
Dose Button: Press and hold to inject the selected dose.
Outer Needle Cap: Covers the needle for safety.
Inner Needle Cap: Protects the needle before use.
Paper Tab: Removed to attach a new needle to the pen.
Storage: Unused Saxenda pens should be stored in the refrigerator, while the pen currently in use can be kept at room temperature (up to 30°C) for up to 30 days. Proper storage helps maintain the effectiveness of the medication.
Needle Safety: It is crucial not to share your Saxenda pen or needles with others to prevent the risk of infection. Always use a new needle for each injection to avoid contamination and ensure accurate dosing.
Instructions for Use: Detailed instructions on how to use the Saxenda pen, including preparing the pen, selecting the dose, and administering the injection, are provided in the package leaflet that accompanies the pen. It is essential to follow these instructions carefully for safe and effective medication administration.
By familiarizing yourself with the Saxenda pen and its components, you can confidently and accurately administer your prescribed Saxenda injections as part of your weight management plan. If you require a refresher on how to use the pen, you can refer to the instructions provided or consult your doctor for guidance.
Please consult with your doctor before taking Saxenda.