Certain medications are only available by prescription for a reason; they can cause side effects for which medical supervision during use is necessary. Saxenda is a medication that reduces hunger, leading to weight loss. Therefore, there is increasing demand for this weight loss method using injections.
Can I order Saxenda without a prescription?
Ordering Saxenda without a prescription is prohibited. There are online webshops that sell Saxenda without a prescription. However, these webshops either ask you to provide a previously obtained prescription before you can buy the medicine, or they ask for payment via difficult-to-trace payment methods such as crypto. In such cases, no doctor is involved, and the authenticity of the medicine is not guaranteed, with all the associated consequences. No questions are asked about medical conditions, contraindications, or other factors that could influence the use of Saxenda. These webshops are located outside the Netherlands, which means the Dutch government cannot exercise control. Therefore, be very critical if you are considering starting with Saxenda in this way.
Is Saxenda reimbursed by health insurance?
If you have received a prescription for Saxenda, this does not mean that the medication will be reimbursed by your health insurer. Earlier this year, the Dutch Healthcare Institute advised that Saxenda should be included in the basic insurance package as the first weight-loss method, but under strict conditions. Unfortunately, very few people qualify for this. You can read more about Saxenda reimbursement here.
Can anyone who wants to lose weight get a prescription for Saxenda?
No, weight loss with Saxenda is only possible for individuals with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 27 or higher in combination with at least one of the following weight-related conditions:
- Dysglycemia (pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure)).
- Dyslipidemia (an abnormality in fat metabolism)
- Obstructive sleep apnea
Or from a BMI of 30.
Where is it safe to buy Saxenda?
If you qualify for Saxenda, we advise you to only purchase this medication through a doctor and with a prescription. Should side effects occur, a doctor can assist and guide you. We advise clients never to simply buy a prescription-only medication online.
When is Saxenda effective?
Saxenda is only truly effective in combination with lifestyle changes. Therefore, it is important that you choose a program where you receive guidance from a nutrition coach and supervision from a doctor, to increase your chances of sustainable weight loss.
