What is Saxenda®? A Comprehensive Guide to This Weight Loss Injection
Saxenda® (liraglutide) injection 3 mg is an injectable prescription medicine for weight loss, developed by Novo Nordisk. This weight loss medication injection, also known as a weight loss shot, may help some adults with excess weight (BMI ≥27) who also have weight-related medical problems or obesity (BMI ≥30) lose weight and keep the weight off. Saxenda®, as an injection to lose weight, should be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for optimal results in weight management.
Important Information About Saxenda® for Weight Loss
- Saxenda® is not for the treatment of type 2 diabetes
- Saxenda® and Victoza® have the same active ingredient, liraglutide, and should not be used together
- Saxenda® should not be used with other GLP-1 receptor agonist medicines
- Saxenda® and insulin should not be used together
- It is not known if Saxenda® is safe and effective when taken with other prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal weight loss products
- The effect of Saxenda® on heart problems, stroke risk, or death due to these conditions is unknown
- The safety of Saxenda® in people with a history of pancreatitis is not established
- Saxenda® is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age, but it can be prescribed for children aged 12-17 years under specific conditions
Important Safety Information
What is the most important information I should know about Saxenda®?
Serious side effects may occur in people who take Saxenda®, including:
Possible thyroid tumors, including cancer. Tell your healthcare provider if you experience a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath. These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer. In studies with rats and mice, Saxenda® and similar medicines caused thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer. It is unknown if Saxenda® will cause thyroid tumors or medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) in humans.
Do not use Saxenda® if you or any family members have a history of MTC or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Who should not use Saxenda®?
Do not use Saxenda® if:
- You or your family have a history of MTC
- You have MEN 2
- You are allergic to liraglutide or any ingredients in Saxenda®
Consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as Saxenda® may harm your unborn baby.
Before taking Saxenda®, inform your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including:
- Any conditions mentioned in the “Important Information” section
- If you’re taking other GLP-1 receptor agonists
- Allergies to liraglutide or other Saxenda® ingredients
- Severe stomach problems like gastroparesis
- Pancreas, kidney, or liver problems
- Depression or suicidal thoughts
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding plans
Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including prescription, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Saxenda® may interact with other medications, particularly diabetes medicines like sulfonylureas or insulin.
How should I use Saxenda®?
- Inject Saxenda® under the skin (subcutaneous injection) in your stomach area (abdomen), upper leg (thigh), or upper arm, as instructed by your healthcare provider. Do not inject into a vein or muscle
- Never share your Saxenda® pen or needles with others to prevent infection transmission
- Follow the dosing schedule provided by your healthcare provider
What are the possible side effects of Saxenda®?
Saxenda® may cause serious side effects, including:
- Possible thyroid tumors, including cancer
- Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
- Gallbladder problems, including gallstones
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in people with type 2 diabetes also taking diabetes medications
- Increased heart rate
- Kidney problems (kidney failure)
- Serious allergic reactions
- Depression or thoughts of suicide
Common side effects of Saxenda® include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headache, vomiting, decreased appetite, upset stomach, tiredness, dizziness, stomach pain, and changes in enzyme (lipase) levels in your blood. Nausea is most common when starting Saxenda® but typically decreases over time. Some patients may experience injection site reactions.
Additional Resources
For more information about Saxenda® and support during your weight loss journey:
- Visit the official Saxenda® website
- Enroll in SaxendaCare®, a support program designed to help you throughout your treatment
- Use the Saxenda® Savings Card to help with medication costs
- Call the Saxenda® Hotline for immediate assistance and answers to your questions
Remember, Saxenda® is a weight loss medication that, when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, can help adults with excess weight or obesity manage their weight more effectively. Always consult with your healthcare provider to determine if Saxenda® is right for you and to discuss any potential side effects or concerns.
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