FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW DOES SAXENDA HELPS WITH WEIGHT LOSS?
Saxenda belongs to the class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists. GLP-1 is a gut hormone that helps to regulate your appetite and how your body handles sugar. GLP-1 agonists, such as Saxenda, mimic the effects of this hormone. Saxenda is administered via a simple injection once a day, which you must apply yourself. The injection promotes weight loss by slowing gastric emptying after meals. This means that food remains in your stomach for a longer period of time, causing you to feel full. Research has shown that Saxenda can help you successfully lose weight. However, keep in mind that it works best when combined with a low-calorie diet and exercise.
WHAT SAXENDA DOSAGE IS RECOMMENDED FOR ME?
As each patient is different, so are their treatment plans. However, most treatments begin with 0.6mg of Saxenda per day and then increase the dose weekly in 0.6mg increments as shown below until you reach the maximum maintenance dose of 3mg. It takes about 5 weeks to reach the maximum dose and the dosage should not increase faster than this.
If you experience any side effects, do not increase your dose until they have subsided. Extra needles can be provided to accommodate this.
If you accidentally inject more Saxenda than is recommended, please contact your doctor. You may experience nausea or vomiting and require medical attention.
HOW SHOULD I HANDLE AND DISPOSE OF NEEDLES?
After you've finished injecting, carefully remove the needle from the pen. Put the needle cap back on the needle to avoid needlesticks. To reduce the risk of injuring yourself, immediately place the needle in a sharps container. After each use, replace the pen cap to protect Saxenda® from light. Never dispose of used needles in household trash or recycling bins.
WILL I FEEL NAUSEOUS AFTER THE INJECTIONS?
The most common side effect when starting Saxenda® is nausea, which usually goes away as the body adjusts to the medication. If you start feeling nauseated, try eating bland, low-fat foods like crackers, toast, and rice. Alternatively, consume foods high in water content, such as soups and gelatin. It is also advised that you avoid lying down after they have eaten. As soon as you begin to feel nauseous, go outside for some fresh air. Remember to stick to the dosing schedule, which is designed to reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal symptoms.
WHEN CAN I START SAXENDA AFTER HAVING A BABY?
We recommend that you wait at least 3 months after giving birth or having a c-section before starting Saxenda, Because the body already undergoes many physical and psychological changes in this phase. To get the most out of Saxenda, start the treatment when your body weight is more stable and you have time to implement the lifestyle changes that will help you lose weight and keep it off in the long run.
ARE SAXENDA® INJECTIONS FDA APPROVED?
Yes! Rest assured that axenda (liraglutide) has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for chronic weight control in patients aged 12 and up who are obese, as defined by specified BMI cut-offs for age and sex that correspond to a BMI of 30 kg/m2 or greater for adults, and who weigh more than 60 kg (132 pounds).