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 or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.