Liraglutide (Saxenda)

Liraglutide, sold under the brand name Saxenda, is another important medication in the growing field of prescription weight management. Here's what you should know if you're considering this treatment option.

What's It For?

Saxenda is prescribed for chronic weight management in adults who are either:

• Obese (BMI of 30 or higher), or
• Overweight (BMI of 27 or higher) with at least one weight-related condition like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol

Like other weight management medications, Saxenda is meant to be used as part of a comprehensive approach that includes reducing calorie intake and increasing physical activity. The medication supports these lifestyle changes rather than replacing them.

How It Works

Saxenda belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. While it contains the same active ingredient (liraglutide) as Victoza, which is used for diabetes, Saxenda is specifically approved for weight management at a higher dose.

The medication works through two main mechanisms:

1. It acts on receptors in your brain that control hunger and appetite, helping reduce food cravings and calorie intake.
2. It slows the rate at which food empties from your stomach, helping you feel satisfied longer after meals.

These effects work together to help you consume fewer calories while experiencing less hunger, making it easier to stick with a reduced-calorie diet.

How to Take It

Unlike weekly weight management medications, Saxenda requires daily administration. The medication comes as a pre-filled pen for subcutaneous injection (under the skin) in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.

Your healthcare provider will recommend a gradual dose escalation:

• Starting dose: 0.6 mg daily for one week
• Weekly increases: The dose is typically increased by 0.6 mg each week
• Target dose: 3.0 mg daily

This step-by-step approach helps minimize digestive side effects as your body adjusts to the medication. It's best to take Saxenda at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in your system.

Side Effects: The Real Deal

All medications have potential side effects, and it's important to understand what you might experience with Saxenda.

Common Side Effects

Most people experience some digestive system effects, particularly when first starting the medication:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Headache
• Stomach discomfort

The good news is that these side effects typically improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication. The gradual dose escalation schedule helps minimize these effects.

Serious Side Effects

Though less common, more serious side effects require attention:

• Risk of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Gallbladder problems, including gallstones
• Thyroid tumors (rare, but a concern particularly for those with a family history)
• Kidney issues
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially if used with diabetes medications

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain, swelling in the neck, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or signs of dehydration like dizziness or decreased urination.

Making It Work For You

To maximize benefits and minimize risks with Saxenda, consider these important guidelines:

Medical History

Be completely honest with your doctor about your medical history, especially if you or your family members have had thyroid cancer, medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), pancreatitis, or gallbladder problems.

Lifestyle Integration

Remember that Saxenda works best when combined with dietary changes and increased physical activity. The medication can help control your appetite, but healthy eating habits and regular exercise are essential for long-term success.

Consistency Matters

Try to take your Saxenda injection at the same time each day. If you miss a dose, simply resume your regular schedule the next day - don't double up to make up for a missed dose.

Regular Monitoring

Keep all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider. These check-ins are important for assessing your progress, adjusting your dose if needed, and monitoring for any potential side effects.

Medication Interactions

Tell your doctor about all medications, supplements, herbs, and vitamins you're taking. Some combinations may increase your risk of low blood sugar or other side effects.

Bottom Line

Saxenda offers an additional option for adults struggling with weight management who haven't achieved their goals through diet and exercise alone. While it requires daily injections rather than weekly administration, its effectiveness in supporting weight loss has been demonstrated in clinical trials.

Like all medical treatments, the decision to use Saxenda should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider, who can help determine if it's appropriate based on your individual health situation, goals, and previous weight loss efforts.