Anyone who has tried knows that losing weight and keeping it off is tough. Sometimes diet and exercise are not enough and that is where weight loss medications can be helpful. Under a doctor’s supervision, weight loss medications can give you that extra little bit of assistance you need to be successful in losing weight and keeping it off. Saxenda® shots may be the answer to your weight loss woes.
What Is Saxenda®?
Saxenda® is a brand name for the prescription drug Liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which has been used in the United States for treating type 2 diabetes since 2010. In 2014, it was approved by the FDA to treat obesity and weight management with a 3 mg daily dose. When using Saxenda for weight loss, the dose is about twice the amount prescribed for treating type 2 diabetes.
How Does Saxenda Work?
Saxenda® is a daily injection that works by stimulating the body’s release of insulin and inhibiting the secretion of glucagon. It slows down the rate of gastric emptying and helps patients feel full longer. It helps patients lose weight by controlling their appetites which leads to the intake of fewer calories. When combined with a healthy diet and exercise program, using Saxenda for weight loss can be an effective tool and boost your results.
How Is Saxenda Administered?
Saxenda is an injection administered under the skin (subcutaneously) once a day as instructed by your doctor. The injection comes in a pen-type dispenser that holds several doses that your doctor will show you how to use. During the first five weeks of treatment, your dose will be gradually increased weekly until you reach the full 3 mg which you will continue ongoing.
The Saxenda® Injection Pen
The Saxenda® pen is pre-filled with 18 milligrams of Liraglutide and 3 milliliters of solution. The pen has dose settings for 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.8 mg, 2.4 mg, and 3 mg.
Patients use a new disposable needle every time to administer the saxenda medication. The Saxenda® pen is very easy to use and is equipped with clear markings.
Saxenda Injection Sites
The patient administers the Saxenda injection in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm once a day. The injection is never to be done in a vein or muscle. It is recommended the injection be done at the same time every day for best results.
Saxenda Dosing Schedule
The typical Saxenda schedule for weight loss and weight management patients starts with 0.6 mg and progresses weekly until the maximum dose of 3 mg is reached. If patients experience unpleasant side effects with increased dosage, their schedule may be adjusted.
Saxenda Dosing Chart
| Week | Dose |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | 0.6 mg daily |
| Week 2 | 1.2 mg daily |
| Week 3 | 1.8 mg daily |
| Week 4 | 2.4 mg daily |
| Week 5+ | 3 mg daily |
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Who Is A Candidate For Saxenda?
Saxenda injections can be used for children ages 12-17 years old with a weight of 132+ lbs and in adults with a BMI over 26 with weight-related health issues or a BMI over 30. Saxenda is intended to be used in conjunction with a low-calorie diet and exercise regime.
Who Is Not A Candidate For Saxenda?
Saxenda is NOT a good choice for you if:
Other factors that may exclude you from candidacy for Saxenda® include health issues related to the pancreas, kidneys, or liver. If you have depression, suicidal thoughts, or mental health issues.
What Are The Benefits of Saxenda®?
What Are The Side Effects of Saxenda?
Side effects that are most common for adults include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, reaction at the injection site, headache, low blood sugar, fatigue, dizziness, stomach pain, etc. Children have experienced fever and gastroenteritis. Additional associated side effects can be found on the Saxenda® patient website.
How Much Do Saxenda® Injection Treatments Cost?
The cost of Saxenda will vary by patient and the dose required. The patient’s actual cost can be influenced by insurance coverage, geographical location, and the pharmacy used. Insurance companies may require pre-authorization before covering the expense of Saxenda injections.
Some patients may be eligible for a 90-day supply of Saxenda® weight loss injections that may reduce the cost as well as trips to the pharmacy.
Where Can I Get Saxenda Weight Loss Injection Treatments?
IBI Healthcare Institute offers Saxenda weight loss medication therapy as a part of their medical weight loss program in Georgia and Florida. Saxenda weight loss injections are intended to accompany a complete weight loss program that also includes diet and exercise. Set up a consultation today to determine if you are a candidate for Saxenda® shots and together we can tailor a weight loss program just for you!
Take the first step on your journey to a healthy life
IBI Healthcare Institute provides an unmatched patient experience and outstanding results. You matter to us.