Saxenda

The active ingredient in Saxenda is liraglutide, which is a glucagon-like peptide-1 or GLP-1 receptor agonist. It functions similarly to GLP-1, a hormone your body produces to regulate hunger. By functioning similarly to GLP-1 in your body, Saxenda aids in weight loss. Because it slows down your digestive system, you feel less hungry.

Saxenda is used for chronic weight management in adults with obesity (body mass index or BMI of 30 or more) or a BMI of at least 27 who also have a weight-related condition like high cholesterol, high blood pressure (hypertension), or type 2 diabetes. It can also be used in adolescents 12 to 17 years of age who are obese and have a body weight above 60 kg (132 pounds).

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-approved product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Saxenda. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Saxenda:

• Saxenda is administered subcutaneously (under the skin) at any time of day, with or without food, in the stomach area (abdomen), upper leg (thigh), or upper arm. You will receive instructions on how to administer shots at home. If you do not know how to administer this medication, do not self-inject.
• Your healthcare practitioner will demonstrate the ideal locations for Saxenda injections in your body. Every time you administer an injection, use a different location. Avoid injecting twice in the same area.
• Saxenda should not be used if it contains particles or has changed color. For new medications, give your doctor a call.
• A disposable needle should only be used once with your Saxenda pen. Observe any local or state regulations regarding the disposal of spent syringes and needles. Ask your chemist where to find and how to dispose of a puncture-proof "sharps" disposal container. Keep dogs and children away from this container.
• If you miss a dose of Saxenda, skip the missed dose and inject your next dose as scheduled. Do not take any extra doses to make up for missed doses. If you miss 3 or more doses in a row, talk with your doctor. You may need to start back on a lower dose and gradually increase it.
• Saxenda is but one component of a comprehensive treatment plan that may involve regular blood glucose (sugar) checks, nutrition, exercise, and a reduced-calorie diet. Pay strict attention to your doctor's recommendations.

The most common side effects of Saxenda seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Nausea and vomiting.
• Headaches.
• Constipation.
• Abdominal pain or discomfort.
• Low blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
• Sore throat or hoarseness.
• Injection site reactions.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Saxenda. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Pancreas or gallbladder problems, like fever, nausea, vomiting, and persistent back or stomach pain.
• Low blood sugar symptoms such as trembling, perspiration, lightheadedness, disorientation, anxiety, blurred vision, and intense hunger.
• Changes in urination, blood in the urine, swelling ankles or feet, decreased appetite, and cramping in the muscles are all signs of worsening kidney problems.
• Breathing difficulties, hives, itching, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat are signs of a serious allergic reaction.
• Suicidal ideas or actions.
• Increased heart rate.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Saxenda. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Saxenda, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
• A history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, a form of thyroid cancer, in one's family or personally.
• Diabetic ketoacidosis (for treatment, contact your physician).
• Slowed emptying of your stomach (gastroparesis) or problems with digesting food.
• Elevated triglycerides or cholesterol, a kind of blood fat.
• A history of gallbladder disease, gallstones, or pancreatitis.
• Depression or suicidal thoughts in the past.
• Are preparing for surgery or another procedure involving profound sedation or anesthesia.
• Avoid drinking alcohol as it increases your risk of hypoglycemia.

Boxed Warning

Saxenda causes thyroid tumors in rodents; human risk is unknown. It is contraindicated in patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) or medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) in the patient's family. Patients should get counseling on the possible risks of MTC while receiving treatment.

History of medullary thyroid carcinoma in oneself or one's family.

Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).

Currently pregnant.

The weight-loss injection Saxenda is administered once daily. In as little as two weeks, Saxenda might begin working. However, it may take up to 6 months to see its full effects.

When Saxenda is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Insulin.
• Oral diabetes medicines such as Glucotrol, Metaglip, Amaryl, Avandaryl, Duetact, DiaBeta, Micronase, Glucovance, and others.

Saxenda is typically started with a 0.6 mg subcutaneous injection once a day. Until you achieve a maintenance dose of 3 mg per day, your healthcare professional (HCP) will increase your dosage every week.

The usual dosing schedule is listed below.

Week 1: Inject 0.6 mg under the skin once daily.

Week 2: Inject 1.2 mg under the skin once daily.

Week 3: Inject 1.8 mg under the skin once daily.

Week 4: Inject 2.4 mg under the skin once daily.

Week 5 and after: Inject 3 mg under the skin once daily.

Store at room temperature and out of reach of children.

Novo Nordisk is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Saxenda.

There are no lower-cost generics available for Saxenda. Another brand name that contains the same active ingredient, liraglutide, is Victoza.

It is possible to stop abruptly, but it may cause nausea. You won't have withdrawal symptoms, though. However, if you abruptly cease, your hunger may return, which could cause problems for your diet. It's advisable to reduce your Saxenda dosage and discontinue gradually.

Saxenda is contraindicated during pregnancy because weight loss offers no possible benefit to a pregnant woman and may harm your unborn baby. If you want to become pregnant, or a pregnancy occurs, discontinue Saxenda and call your doctor right away.

It is not known if Saxenda is found in breast milk or what effects it may have on your infant or milk production. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.