Saxenda (liraglutide) is a prescription GLP-1 receptor agonist used for chronic weight management in adults and certain adolescents with obesity, or adults who are overweight with at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. It works by reducing appetite, increasing feelings of fullness, and helping you eat less. Unlike once-weekly GLP-1 medications, Saxenda is administered as a once-daily injection.
Available Strength
- 18 mg/3 mL prefilled injection pen
Typical Dosing Schedule
- Week 1: 0.6 mg once daily
- Week 2: 1.2 mg once daily
- Week 3: 1.8 mg once daily
- Week 4: 2.4 mg once daily
- Week 5 and onward: 3.0 mg once daily (maintenance dose)
Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Decreased appetite
These side effects are usually temporary and often improve as your body adjusts to the medication.
Benefits
- Supports long-term weight loss when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
- Helps reduce appetite and control food cravings.
- May improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.
- Daily dosing allows for gradual dose adjustments to improve tolerability.
Important Safety Information
Saxenda should not be used by individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). It is not recommended during pregnancy. Always use Saxenda exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and follow the recommended dose-escalation schedule to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
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