Saxenda

Saxenda (liraglutide) is an injectable medication approved for weight management in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older with obesity or overweight who have weight-related medical problems. It works by mimicking a natural hormone that helps regulate appetite, leading to reduced calorie intake and weight loss. Saxenda is used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

Benefits:

• Helps adults and adolescents lose weight and maintain weight loss.
• Reduces appetite by promoting a feeling of fullness.
• Supports improved weight-related health outcomes, such as blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
• Can aid in long-term weight management when combined with lifestyle changes.
• Administered via a convenient, pre-filled pen for ease of use.

Dosage:

• The starting dose is 0.6 mg once daily.
• The dose is gradually increased weekly in 0.6 mg increments until reaching the full dose of 3.0 mg daily.
• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for dose escalation to minimize side effects.

Warnings and Precautions:

• Saxenda may increase the risk of thyroid tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma. Report any symptoms such as a lump in the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath.
• Not recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2.
• Use with caution if you have a history of pancreatitis. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain or persistent nausea.
• May cause or worsen gallbladder issues, such as gallstones. Watch for signs like severe stomach pain, fever, or jaundice.
• Not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Saxenda is not approved for use in individuals with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

Usage Instructions:

• Administer Saxenda as a subcutaneous injection once daily, at any time of the day, with or without meals.
• Inject into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, rotating injection sites daily to prevent skin irritation.
• Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and the medication guide provided with the pen.

Storage Information:

• Store unused Saxenda pens in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
• Once in use, the pen can be kept at room temperature (59°F to 86°F or 15°C to 30°C) for up to 30 days.
• Keep the pen cap on to protect from light. Do not freeze or expose to excessive heat.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea, especially during dose escalation.
• Vomiting and diarrhea may occur.
• Constipation and abdominal pain are possible.
• Some individuals experience low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), particularly when used with other medications.
• Injection site reactions, such as redness or swelling, can occur. 

More information about Saxenda:

• Product Monograph – Health Canada
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration Medication Guide