What is Saxenda?
Saxenda is a prescription drug for the treatment of obesity and obesity. It contains the active ingredient liposide – the same active ingredient as the diabetes medication Victoza, but in higher dosage.
Saxenda was the first GLP-1 medication that was specifically approved for weight reduction (2015) and has paved the way for newer drugs such as Wegovy and Mounjaro.
The difference to Wegovy:
- Saxenda: Daily injection, active ingredient Liraglutid
- Wegovy: Weekly injection, active ingredient Semaglutid
In studies Saxenda led to an average of 5-10% weight loss – slightly less than Wegovy, but nevertheless clinically significant.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Liraglutid
Liraglutid is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that imitates the body's own saturation hormone GLP-1:
Appetite regulation: Activation of GLP-1 receptors in the brain leads to increased saturation and reduced hunger.
Sustained gastric emptying: The stomach drains more slowly, which leads to a longer saturation feeling.
Blow sugar regulation: In case of increased blood sugar, Liraglutid promotes insulin distribution (relevant for diabetics).
The result:
- Less hunger and appetite
- Faster saturation
- Reduced calorie intake
- Stable blood sugar
Study results:
- Average weight loss: 5-10 %
- About half of the participants lost more than 5%
- Improving blood pressure and metabolic values
Who is it suitable for?
Approved indication:
- BMI ≥ 30 (obesity) OR
- BMI ≥ 27
Additionally approved for:
- Young people from 12 years old with BMI according to obesity
Provisions:
- diet and exercise alone not sufficient
- Motivation for lifestyle change
More suitable for:
- Pancreatitis in prehistory
- Heavy kidney failure
- Medullärem thyroid cancer (also in family)
- Pregnancy
Available Dosages
Dispensation scheme (daily):
- Week 4: 2.4 mg
- From week 5: 3.0 mg (maintenance dose)
Important:
- Keep each dose level for at least one week
- In case of poor compatibility, delay dose increase
- Maximum dose: 3.0 mg daily
Available pen: Pre-filled pen with several doses, contains 18 mg (full for several days depending on the dose).
How to Take
Application:
- Once a day, at the same time
- Subcutaneous injection
- belly, thigh or upper arm
- Independent meals
Tip at daytime: Some better tolerate Saxenda in the evening (abolence at night). Others prefer morning. Try what's better for you.
Forget dose:
- Less than 12 hours past: repeating
- More than 12 hours: omit, next regular dose
Restoration:
- Unopened: fridge
- Up to 30 days at room temperature or in the refrigerator
Contraindications
Absolute contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to Liraglutid
- Medulläres thyroid carcinoma (also in family)
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Preview at:
- Pancreatitis in prehistory
- Heavy kidney failure
- Heart failure
- Inflammable intestinal diseases
- Gallensteinleiden
Possible Side Effects
Very common (>10%):
- nausea
- Break.
- diarrhea
- Blocking
Acid (1-10%):
- Headaches
- Squeeze
- stomach pain
- Blowing
- Sodburning
- fatigue
- Hypoglycemia (in diabetics)
Occasionally:
- gallstones
- Increased heart rate
- Reactions at injection site
Selten, but seriously:
- Pancreatitis
- Allergic reactions
** Gastrointestinal side effects are most common at the beginning and usually improve.
Interactions
Insulin and sulfonylureas:
- Increased hypoglycemia risk
- dose adjustment often necessary
Oral medicines:
- Recording can be delayed
Warfarin:
- INR control at the start of therapy
Paracetamol:
- Delayed recording, clinically usually irrelevant
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Saxenda right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.