Saxenda®

What is Saxenda

Saxenda is a medicine with the active ingredient liraglutide, developed by Novo Nordisk. It is used for weight loss and weight maintenance in adults with obesity (BMI ≥ 30) or overweight (BMI 27–30) in combination with weight-related conditions such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, or sleep apnea. Saxenda is only available on prescription from a doctor. Within The Body Clinic, a doctor assesses during the consultation whether treatment with medication is medically responsible. More information about our medical approach can be found in our treatment program.

Liraglutide

Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, a substance similar to the natural gut hormone glucagon-like peptide-1. After a meal, GLP-1 stimulates insulin release, inhibits glucagon production in the liver, slows gastric emptying, and induces a feeling of fullness. Through this action, liraglutide helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports weight loss when medically indicated.

Instructions for use of Saxenda

Saxenda is supplied as a pre-filled injection pen for daily use. Always read the package leaflet or ask your doctor or pharmacist for an explanation.

Important:

• One injection per day, preferably at the same time.
• The dosage is gradually increased: 0.6 mg → 1.2 mg → 1.8 mg → 2.4 mg → 3.0 mg per day.
• Each pen contains multiple doses (up to 18 mg total).
• After 12 weeks at 3 mg, the doctor assesses the effect; if weight loss is < 5%, treatment is usually discontinued.

Injection site

• Under the skin of the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
• Do not inject into a vein or muscle.
• Always have the first use demonstrated by a doctor or nurse.

Storage

• In the refrigerator (2–8 °C), do not freeze, protect from light.
• After opening: usable for up to 1 month at room temperature (max. 30 °C).

Saxenda and weight loss

Saxenda has been studied in randomized clinical trials on its effect on body weight in adults with obesity or overweight in combination with lifestyle advice (diet and exercise). These studies showed that liraglutide, combined with guidance and lifestyle adjustments, led to significant and clinically relevant weight loss in many participants compared to placebo.

Briefly explained: participants followed a calorie-restricted diet and increased their daily exercise, while receiving a daily injection of liraglutide or a placebo. On average, body weight decreased more significantly in the liraglutide group. In the SCALE study, the following results were found after 56 weeks of treatment:

Results after 56 weeks (SCALE study)

Treatment group	Average weight loss	≥ 5%	≥ 10%	> 15%
Liraglutide 3.0 mg once daily	−8.0%	63%	33%	14%
Placebo + lifestyle counseling	−2.6%	27%	10%	4%

The effect gradually builds up during treatment. Results may vary per person; medication does not work for everyone and can cause side effects. Always read the package leaflet or SmPC and discuss expectations and risks with your doctor.

Saxenda price

The price of Saxenda is determined by the pharmacy and may vary by strength and packaging. Within The Body Clinic, a doctor assesses during the consultation whether treatment with medication is suitable within a medical weight management program. More information about our medical approach can be found in our treatment program.

Who is Saxenda suitable for

Saxenda can be prescribed to adults with:

• BMI ≥ 30 (obesity), or
• BMI 27–30 (overweight) with at least one weight-related condition such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or dyslipidemia.

Treatment is only started if medically responsible and is discontinued if insufficient results are achieved (< 5% weight loss after 12 weeks at 3 mg).

Saxenda prescription

Saxenda is exclusively available on prescription. A BIG-registered doctor assesses whether you meet the medical criteria and can then issue a prescription. Within The Body Clinic, a doctor assesses during the consultation whether treatment with medication is suitable within a medical weight management program. More information about our medical approach can be found in our treatment program.

The substances contained in Saxenda

Saxenda is a pre-filled pen with a fixed strength per pen. Composition according to official product information:

• Active substance: liraglutide (6 mg/ml).
• Other excipients: disodium phosphate dihydrate, propylene glycol, phenol, hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide (for pH adjustment), and water for injection.

The difference between Mounjaro and Saxenda

Application

• Mounjaro: weight loss/weight maintenance and type 2 diabetes.
• Saxenda: weight loss/weight maintenance.

Active substance and class

• Mounjaro: tirzepatide (GIP + GLP-1).
• Saxenda: liraglutide (GLP-1).

Dosage/frequency of use

• Mounjaro: 1× per week (2.5–15 mg; titration).
• Saxenda: 1× per day (0.6–3 mg; titration).

Saxenda side effects

Commonly reported (usually mild to moderate, especially during titration)

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Constipation

Less common

• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Delayed gastric emptying (feeling of fullness)
• Injection site reaction (itching, redness, or pain)

Serious side effects — contact a doctor immediately

• Persistent severe abdominal pain (possible pancreatitis)
• Jaundice or pain in the upper right abdomen (possible gallbladder or liver problems)
• Swelling of the face or throat (allergic reaction)
• In case of persistent symptoms, the dosage may be reduced or temporarily stopped.

Contraindications for the use of Saxenda

Saxenda should not be used:

• in case of hypersensitivity to liraglutide or excipients;
• in case of severe stomach or intestinal problems (such as gastroparesis);
• in children and adolescents under 18 years of age;
• during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Explanation: Use in combination with other blood glucose-lowering agents may increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Always discuss your complete medication and medical history with the doctor during the consultation.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Saxenda should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. There is no data on use in pregnant women. In animal studies, damage to the unborn animal was observed at high doses. Women who wish to become pregnant must stop Saxenda at least two months before pregnancy. It is unknown whether liraglutide passes into breast milk.

Sources

• EMA – SmPC Saxenda (liraglutide)
• Pi-Sunyer X. et al. N Engl J Med. 2015;373:11-22. SCALE Obesity and Prediabetes study.