Saxenda injections are a type of medicine used to help with weight loss. They are not magic, but they can help people lose weight when used along with diet and exercise. Saxenda injections contains an active ingredient called liraglutide. It works in the body in a special way to help control hunger.
Many people who are overweight or have health problems because of their weight may find Saxenda helpful. But it is important to understand how it works, how to use it, and what to expect.
What is Saxenda
Saxenda is a prescription medicine. It comes in the form of an injection. You take it once a day. It is not taken by mouth like pills. Instead, you inject it under the skin in areas such as the stomach, thigh, or upper arm.
The active ingredient, liraglutide, is also used in diabetes medicine. But Saxenda has a different purpose. It helps people eat less and feel full longer. This can lead to weight loss over time.
Who Can Use Saxenda
Saxenda is for adults with a high body weight. It may also be given to teenagers over the age of 12 in some cases. You may be a good candidate if:
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Your body mass index (BMI) is 30 or more
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Your BMI is 27 or more and you have a weight-related health problem such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol
Saxenda is not for everyone. People with certain health problems should not use it. Always talk to a doctor before starting Saxenda.
How Saxenda Works
Saxenda affects the brain’s appetite center. It helps you feel less hungry. It slows down how fast food leaves your stomach. This means you stay full for a longer time after eating.
Because of this, people usually eat fewer calories without feeling like they are starving. Over time, this can lead to steady weight loss. It works best when you eat healthy food and stay active.
How to Use Saxenda Injections
Saxenda comes in a pre-filled injection pen. You or your doctor will learn how to use it safely. You inject it once each day at the same time. It does not matter if you take it with food or not.
You start with a low dose and slowly increase it. This helps reduce side effects. The usual starting dose is 0.6 mg per day. The full dose is 3 mg per day, which you reach in several weeks.
Do not change your dose unless your doctor tells you. Always follow the instructions carefully.
What to Expect with Saxenda
Weight loss with Saxenda is not fast. Most people lose weight slowly over several months. This is a good thing because losing weight slowly is safer and healthier.
In studies, people using Saxenda along with healthy eating and exercise lost more weight than those who only made lifestyle changes. On average, people may lose around 5 to 10 percent of their starting weight.
Some people lose more, and some lose less. Your results may vary. It is important to stay patient and keep going.
Side Effects of Saxenda
Like all medicines, Saxenda can cause side effects. Some are mild and go away after a few days or weeks. Others may be more serious.
Common side effects include:
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Nausea
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Vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Constipation
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Headache
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Tiredness
These often happen when you first start Saxenda. They usually get better with time.
More serious side effects can include:
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Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
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Gallbladder problems
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Increased heart rate
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Kidney issues
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Low blood sugar, especially if used with other diabetes medicines
If you notice serious symptoms such as severe stomach pain, trouble breathing, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical help right away.
Precautions Before Using Saxenda
Before starting Saxenda, talk to your doctor about your full health history. Tell them if you have:
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A history of thyroid problems
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Problems with your pancreas or kidneys
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A family history of a rare type of thyroid cancer
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Depression or mental health conditions
You should not use Saxenda if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is also not approved for use in combination with other weight-loss medicines.
Tips for Success with Saxenda
Saxenda works best when combined with healthy habits. Here are a few tips to get better results:
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Eat small, balanced meals with plenty of vegetables and lean protein
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Drink water instead of sugary drinks
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Get regular exercise, such as walking or swimming
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Keep track of your weight and meals in a journal
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Set small, realistic goals and celebrate your progress
Remember, Saxenda is a tool. It helps you, but it will not do all the work. Staying motivated and consistent is the key.
When to Stop Saxenda
Your doctor will review your progress after a few months. If you have not lost at least 4 percent of your starting weight after 16 weeks at the full dose, your doctor may recommend stopping it. This is because it may not be helping you enough.
You and your doctor will decide what is best for your situation.
Cost and Access
Saxenda can be expensive without insurance. Some insurance plans may cover it if you meet certain health conditions. Your doctor or pharmacy may help you check if you qualify for coverage or savings programs.
Always use Saxenda as prescribed and never share your pen with anyone else.
Final Thoughts
Saxenda injections are a helpful option for people who need support with weight loss. They are not a quick fix, but they can offer real results when used the right way. You should always work with a healthcare provider to make sure Saxenda is safe and right for you.
By combining Saxenda with healthy eating, exercise, and a good routine, many people can lose weight and feel better over time. Like any treatment, it takes time and commitment, but the results can be worth it.
