Saxenda Weight Loss Pen

Who should not use Saxenda?

Do not use Saxenda if you or any of your family members have a history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2), a condition where tumours can develop in more than one gland in the body.

Allergic reactions: If you are allergic to liraglutide or any ingredients in Saxenda, you may experience serious reactions such as:

• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Dizziness or fainting
• Rapid heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Severe rash or itching

Health conditions: People with a history of pancreatitis, severe gastrointestinal issues (like gastroparesis), or kidney and liver problems should avoid Saxenda.

Drug interactions: If you’re taking medications like oral diabetes drugs (e.g., sulfonylureas), insulin, or blood thinners, Saxenda may interact with them. Always consult with our prescriber before starting any slimming injections, including Saxenda.

Age: Saxenda is not recommended for adults over 75 without medical advice, as age can affect how the body responds to treatment. Our prescriber will assess whether Saxenda is safe, especially if you have existing health conditions like heart, pancreas, or liver issues.

Pregnancy Consideration: Saxenda should not be used if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy. There is insufficient evidence on its effects during pregnancy, and weight loss is not recommended during this time. Always consult our doctor for safe weight management options during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Before starting any weight loss treatment, including Saxenda, it’s important to consult with our UK-licensed prescriber. This is especially crucial if you have other health conditions or take multiple medications. We’re here to guide you through a safe and personalised treatment plan.

When is the best time to take Saxenda?

You can take Saxenda at any time of the day that works for you, and it can be taken with food or without food. The key requirement is to use it once every 24 hours and to keep your dosing time as consistent as possible so that the level of liraglutide in your body remains steady.

There is no clinical evidence showing that morning injections work better than evening injections. Some sources mention that very late-night weight loss injections may be less ideal. This is because natural changes in body temperature during sleep can influence absorption, though it is not a strict rule. What matters most is choosing a time you can reliably remember each day. Many people link their dose with a daily routine, such as brushing their teeth or preparing breakfast, to help maintain consistency.

How long can you stay on Saxenda weight loss medication?

Obesity and other chronic conditions usually require longer treatment. Your Saxenda medication will start with an initial phase, and after 4 months, you’ll have a review with our prescriber. During this review, prescriber will decide if further treatment is needed and whether your prescriptions should be renewed.

How much weight could you lose with Saxenda in one year?

Saxenda weight loss medicine is effective in clinical trials, with 85% of participants losing weight. Over 56 weeks, those using the full prescribed dose, alongside a reduced-calorie diet and exercise, typically lost an average of 5% to 10% of their initial body weight.

What happens when you stop taking Saxenda?

When you stop taking Saxenda, its appetite-reducing effect fades, and your hunger is likely to return to normal. Saxenda pen is not addictive, so you will not have withdrawal symptoms, but there is a higher chance of regaining weight if you do not keep up with healthy eating and regular exercise. It is best to speak with your prescriber before stopping so you can plan how to maintain your progress.

Possible side effects

Saxenda pen is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause side effects. These are not experienced by everyone. You can learn more about potential side effects of Saxenda by reviewing the full Medication Guide and reading about common and serious side effects below.

Common side effects of Saxenda

• Nausea (most common, usually decreases as treatment progresses)
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Vomiting
• Injection site reaction
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
• Headache
• Upset stomach (dyspepsia)
• Tiredness (fatigue)
• Dizziness
• Stomach pain
• Change in enzyme (lipase) levels in your blood
• Fever
• Gastroenteritis

These often reduce as your body adjusts to treatment.

Serious side effects of Saxenda

• Changes in the Colour or Amount of Urine (Could Indicate Kidney Issues)
• Fast or Irregular Heartbeats
• Abdominal Pain
• Gallbladder Issues
• Difficulty Breathing
• Unusual Mood Changes
• Yellowing of the Eyes or Skin (Could Indicate Liver Problems)
• Sweating, Blurred Vision, Tingling, Shaking, or Dizziness (Signs of Low Blood Sugar)

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Full safety information is available in the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL).

Precautions when taking Saxenda

Saxenda contains liraglutide. If you’re allergic to liraglutide or any of its ingredients, you should not take this medication. Also, let our prescriber know if you’re allergic to any other medications, as Saxenda may contain ingredients that could cause a reaction. Before using Saxenda, talk to our prescriber If You Have:

• Pancreatitis
• Depression or other Mental Health Conditions
• Stomach or Intestinal Issues, such as Gastroparesis
• Kidney disease
• Liver conditions
• Diabetes: Our prescriber may still recommend Saxenda, but you’ll need to monitor your blood sugar regularly. Some diabetes medications should not be taken with Saxenda.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

Do not use Saxenda if you’re pregnant or think you might be. It should not be used if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.

Saxenda drug interactions

Before starting Saxenda, consult with our experienced UK-licensed clinician/prescriber, particularly if you’re taking other medications, including over-the-counter or herbal products. Some medications, like insulin and glyburide, may interact with Saxenda. Our prescribers will review your medication list to ensure safe and effective treatment.