Saxenda Injection

Saxenda weight loss injection is a once-daily injectable medication designed to assist individuals on their weight loss journey. Backed by extensive clinical studies (novoMEDLINK, 2022; Clinical Trials Arena, 2023; Mehta et al, 2017), Saxenda has proven its effectiveness in helping people shed more pounds than they would through dieting alone. This weight loss treatment is tailored for adults aged 18 and above and delivers optimal results when complemented by a low fat, reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity (Saxenda, 2021).

For more information on the prescription weight loss medication please refer to the Saxenda patient information leaflet.

Video: An overview of Saxenda

Take a look at the video below to get a simple overview of Saxenda, including what it is used for and how it works:

Saxenda contains Liraglutide as its active ingredient, mimicking the actions of a natural hormone called GLP-1 found in the body (Unger & Parkin, 2011). This hormone helps regulate a low blood sugar level after eating (Matsumoto et al, 2013). By replicating these effects, Saxenda assists the brain in recognising fullness even with reduced food intake (Perone et al, 2023), ultimately reducing calorie consumption and facilitating weight loss.

Saxenda Pen

Saxenda's manufacturers claim that 3 out of 5 Saxenda pen users achieved substantial weight loss of at least 5% (Saxenda, 2023), which translates to an average of 12 pounds / 5.44kg. 

Saxenda has undergone rigorous testing for weight loss promotion and demonstrated impressive results. In a 56-week trial involving 3,731 participants, Saxenda facilitated an average weight loss of 8% of their body weight (Palmer & Apovian, 2017). Moreover, 92% of participants experienced significant weight loss when Saxenda was combined with diet and exercise (Pi-Sunyer et al, 2015).

Saxenda is typically recommended for adults with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 27 or higher, who have at least one weight-related health issue. It is always important to consult with a healthcare professional or doctor to determine if Saxenda is suitable for you.

A single maintenance dose of 3mg Saxenda pen typically lasts about 6 days (Saxenda, 2023), depending on your daily dose. When not in use, store your pen in the refrigerator. Saxenda can be administered with or without food, but it's crucial to take it at the same time every day. Many find it easier to remember by taking Saxenda with a meal, such as breakfast. You can inject it into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, and you can change the injection site if discomfort arises. Avoid injecting Saxenda into a vein or muscle.

How do I inject Saxenda?

Saxenda is administered as a subcutaneous injection, typically in the upper leg (thigh), stomach (abdomen), or upper arm. These are the recommended areas for injecting Saxenda.

Instructions for how to administer Saxenda injections are available in the video below that Novo Nordisk have created:

Saxenda Side Effects

Common side effects of Saxenda may include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Vomiting
• Injection site reaction
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
• Headache
• Upset stomach (dyspepsia)
• Tiredness (fatigue)
• Dizziness
• Stomach pain
• Change in enzyme (lipase) levels in your blood
• Fever*
• Gastroenteritis*

*side effects that are more commonly seen in teens, but not as common in adults.

These adverse reactions are typically mild and tend to improve over time. However, if you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor or healthcare provider immediately.

What should I do if I experience side effects?

If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Saxenda, contact your healthcare provider promptly. They can assess your condition, whether it is a common side effect or a more severe case and provide guidance on whether any adjustments to your treatment are needed.

Initiating Saxenda treatment typically involves starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it over the first five weeks to reach the maximum effective dose. If you haven't lost at least 5% of your initial body weight after 12 weeks, treatment should be discontinued. A typical dosing regimen for Saxenda can be as follows:

Saxenda should be stored in the refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C and must be used before the expiry date indicated on the packaging. Avoid freezing Saxenda, and keep the cap on when the pen is not in use to protect the solution from light exposure. 

For those looking to purchase Saxenda, you can find it here at EU Meds.

Saxenda is generally considered safe when used as prescribed by a healthcare professional. However, like any medication, it may have potential side effects. It's essential to discuss your medical history and any concerns with your doctor before starting Saxenda.

There are other prescription medications that many patients like to compare to Saxenda.

Wegovy vs Saxenda

Wegovy and Saxenda are both FDA-approved injectable medications that are used for weight loss. Wegovy, also known as semaglutide, is administered once a week, while Saxenda, with its active ingredient liraglutide, is taken daily. Both of these drugs work as a GLP 1 agonist by mimicking the natural GLP-1 hormone that our bodies produce (Knerr et al, 2022).

There are significant differences between the two in terms of doses and administration. Wegovy, for instance, is taken weekly (Wegovy, 2023), which might be more convenient if you prefer fewer injections. On the other hand, Saxenda is injected daily (Saxenda, 2023).

Both medications are effective in reducing weight, but some studies suggest that Wegovy may be more effective than Saxenda (Rubino et al, 2022). However, it's important to remember that everyone's body reacts differently to medication, so what works best for one person might not work as well for another.

As for side effects, like all medications, both Wegovy and Saxenda can cause side effects. These may include nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, and changes in appetite among others. Always consult with your healthcare provider to weigh the potential benefits and risks before starting any new medication.

Drugs.com has a helpful comparison of Wegovy vs Saxenda. 

Ozempic and Saxenda are both injectable medications, but they serve different primary purposes. Ozempic, also known as semaglutide, is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes, while Saxenda, which contains the active ingredient liraglutide, is a weight loss medication.

When it comes to administration, Ozempic has an advantage over Saxenda as it only needs to be taken once a week (Ozempic, 2023), which can be more convenient for those with a busy schedule. Conversely, Saxenda requires a daily injection.

In terms of efficacy, Ozempic (semaglutide) appears to be more effective than Saxenda (liraglutide) at supporting weight loss and low blood sugar if it's higher than it should be (Colin & Gérard, 2022), hence why it is an authorised type 2 diabetes medication. However, everyone's body reacts differently to medication, so one may work better for you than the other.

As for side effects, both medications may cause nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, and changes in appetite among others. It's reported that Ozempic seems to lead to fewer side effects compared to Saxenda (Rubino et al, 2022).

One crucial point to note for UK readers: Saxenda is licensed for use as a weight loss medication in the UK (but it is not indicated for treating high blood pressure or high cholesterol), while Ozempic is not. Instead, Ozempic is licensed for use as a type 2 diabetes treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication to ensure it's suitable for your specific needs.

Drugs.com has a helpful comparison of Saxenda vs Ozempic. 

Yes, Saxenda can be an effective tool for weight loss when used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. It can help you lose weight by reducing your appetite and promoting a feeling of fullness.

The duration of Saxenda use depends on your individual weight loss goals and your doctor's recommendations. Some individuals use it for several months, while others may require longer treatment. Your doctor will guide you on the appropriate duration for your situation.

Saxenda may be covered by insurance for some individuals, depending on their specific insurance plan and medical condition. You should check with your insurance provider to determine if Saxenda is covered and what the associated costs may be.

Yes, there are precautions to consider when using Saxenda. It's important to inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of thyroid problems, pancreatitis, or if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant (Mayo Clinic, 2023). Additionally, let your doctor know about all the medications and supplements you are taking.

Saxenda can be used in conjunction with other weight loss methods, such as diet and exercise to achieve more sustainable long-term weight loss (Lundgren et al, 2021). It is often recommended as part of a comprehensive weight management plan. Your doctor can provide guidance on the most effective combination of strategies for your individual needs.

When taking Saxenda, it's important to follow a reduced-calorie diet and engage in regular physical activity (Canadian Journal of Health Technologies, 2021). Your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian can help you create a personalised diet and exercise plan that complements your Saxenda treatment.

If you miss a dose of Saxenda, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

It's generally advisable to limit alcohol consumption while taking Saxenda. Alcohol can affect blood sugar levels and may increase the risk of certain side effects (Drugs.com, 2023). It's best to consult with your healthcare provider for specific guidance on alcohol use during Saxenda treatment.

Saxenda can be used for long-term weight management (Tak & Lee, 2021), but the duration of treatment should be discussed with your healthcare provider. It's essential to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed to achieve and maintain your weight loss goals.

The rate at which you'll see results with Saxenda can vary from person to person. Some individuals may start to notice changes in appetite and weight within 2 to 4 weeks, while others may take longer than 8 weeks to start seeing any significant changes in weight loss (Anderson, L., 2022). Consistency with treatment and a healthy lifestyle are key factors in achieving results.

Saxenda is typically prescribed for adults with a BMI of 27 or higher who have weight-related health issues. It is approved for adolescents aged 12 to 17 years old, who suffer from obesity (novoMEDLINK, 2022).

The NHS have put together a helpful guide for children, families and carers called ‘Liraglutide for weight management in children’; it explains more about the active ingredient in Saxenda, liraglutide and the potential benefits and risks for younger patients.

If you have concerns about a young person's weight, consult with a doctor, paediatrician or healthcare professional for appropriate guidance and options.

If you decide to stop taking Saxenda, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on safely discontinuing the medication and discuss alternative weight management strategies to help you maintain your progress.

Whilst liraglutide (the active ingredient in Saxenda) is primarily used as a weight loss treatment rather than the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED), studies have shown that it has improved metabolic control and erectile function in male erectile dysfunction patients suffering with overt hypogonadism and T2D, after they underwent testosterone replacement (a form of hormone replacement therapy), helping them reach eugonadal status (Lisco et al, 2023) and improving their general sexual health.

Novo Nordisk advise against the prescription of Saxenda for renal impairment if creatine clearance is less than 30mL/minute. (NICE, 2023).

No clinical trial has observed that using Saxenda (or other liraglutide-based treatments) causes hair loss. Additionally, no type of hair loss are listed in the Saxenda patient information leaflet.

Every weight loss patient has different symptoms and a unique individual experience when taking Saxenda (Liraglutide) as a treatment.

Saxenda Reviews

To see what people have to say about their experiences with the medication, take a look at the Saxenda user reviews available at Drugs.com and WebMD.

You must speak to a doctor or your healthcare provider before taking Saxenda. They will assess your suitability for Saxenda medication and whether your health condition requires an alternative treatment.

You can safely buy Saxenda online here at EU Meds. Our purchase process will guide you through getting the necessary prescription and receiving your order online through a EU-located pharmacy.

Because Saxenda (Liraglutide) may not suit everyone, we will complete a consultation with you including a health questionnaire. This will ensure that the prescription medication will be suitable for you.

A qualified prescriber will review your current medications to ensure that Saxenda will not interact with them. 

Buy Liraglutide

Once prescribed, Saxenda (Liraglutide) will be ordered on your behalf via electronic prescription. It will then be conveniently dispatched from one of our partner pharmacies. Should you need assistance our customer service team will be happy to help you.

• Saxenda Information (Drugs.com)
• Liraglutide (Saxenda) Information (Drugs.com)
• Saxenda Subcutaneous Information (WebMD)
• Obesity Treatment (NHS)
• Liraglutide Information (BNF Nice)
• Liraglutide Overview (ScienceDirect)
• Weight Loss Injections Information (Patient.info)
• Saxenda Patient Information Leaflet (Medicines.org.uk)
• Saxenda Overview (DrugBank)
• Saxenda Information (EMA - European Medicines Agency)

• Saxenda Shortage: Why Is There A Short Supply of the Weight Loss Injection Pen?