Frequently Asked Questions

1. References

   Saxenda [Package Insert].Plainsboro, NJ: Novo Nordisk; 2014

2. What is the standard dosing routine for Saxenda?

   To prevent serious side effects and allow the body to adapt to Saxenda, there’s a standard dosing schedule that enables individuals to gradually increase their dosage. Typically, patients should follow this schedule:
   First week: Inject 0.6 mg once daily.
   Second week: Increase to 1.2 mg daily.
   Third week: Use 1.8 mg daily.
   Fourth week: Raise the daily dose to 2.4 mg.
   Fifth week and beyond: Reach the full daily dose of 3.0 mg, which is usually continued for the remainder of the treatment period.
   For precise dosage instructions, it’s essential to consult with your physician or pharmacist.

3. Is it necessary to make changes to my diet and exercise routine when taking Saxenda?

   At the beginning of the course, most patients will receive guidance from their doctor on making changes to their diet, such as reducing calorie intake and increasing their daily physical activity. These changes are aimed at promoting weight loss and enhancing the effectiveness of the medication.

4. What are the serious side effects of Saxenda?

   Saxenda can show several serious side effects that require immediate reporting to the prescribing physician. These serious side effects may involve an increased heart rate, kidney failure, severe allergic reactions and other kidney-related problems, hypoglycemia, pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, depression, and thoughts of suicide. If you experience any of these serious side effects, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider promptly.

5. Can we consume Saxenda with other medicines?

   Oral medications may be affected by the use of Saxenda. Saxenda can slow down the emptying of the stomach, which, in turn, can lead to a slower absorption of certain medications that are processed in the digestive tract. To ensure the safe and effective use of your medications, it’s important to have a discussion with your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking before starting Saxenda treatment.

6. What are the most commonly reported side effects of Saxenda?

   Saxenda is known to have common side effects, primarily related to the gastrointestinal system. These side effects may encompass nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting. Furthermore, many patients may also encounter low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), dizziness, reactions at the site of injection, alterations in blood lipase levels, fatigue, and headache.

7. Are there specific individuals who should avoid Saxenda?

   Saxenda is not suitable for everyone. It’s important to avoid using this medication if you are planning to have a child, if you are already pregnant, have had an allergic reaction to Saxenda or any of its components, if you have MEN 2, or if you or a family member has a history of MTC.

8. Is it safe to take Saxenda alongside weight-loss supplements?

   Saxenda hasn’t been tested in patients who are taking other dietary or weight-loss products like supplements or extra medications. Saxenda can affect how your body absorbs medication. So, it’s very important to talk to your doctor if you’re using any of these products while you’re on Saxenda. This conversation will help make sure that you’re using these products safely and effectively while you’re getting Saxenda treatment.

9. Is nausea a common side effect of Saxenda?

   Nausea is a frequently experienced side effect when starting Saxenda, but it usually diminishes as the patient becomes more accustomed to the medication. If you find that nausea is a significant issue when you first start taking Saxenda, you can take some steps to alleviate it. These include staying hydrated, consuming bland foods, sitting in an upright position, and getting some fresh air outside, as these measures may help reduce the feelings of nausea.
   However, if you experience persistent or severe nausea or other gastrointestinal side effects while using Saxenda, it’s crucial to consult with your physician to address any concerns.

10. Which needles should be used with Saxenda pens?

    Saxenda injection pens require Novo Nordisk disposable needles for use. These needles are not included with Saxenda pens and must be bought separately. In certain places, you might need a prescription to obtain them. It’s important to note that it’s not confirmed whether other needles can be used with Saxenda injection pens.

11. For how many days is a Saxenda pen sufficient?

    A Saxenda pen is enough for six days, if you’re daily using a 3 mg dose.

12. What is the proper method for safely disposing of the needle from the Saxenda injection pen after use?

    Once you’ve used a Saxenda pen and it’s time to throw it away, here’s what to do:
    1. Carefully take off the needle, and don’t put the needle cap back on.
    2. Put the used needle in a special container meant for sharp objects.
    3. Don’t throw the needles in recycling or regular trash bins.
    4. After you’ve safely put away the needle, cover the pen with its cap.
    5. Store the pen in a place away from light until you need it next time.

13. At what time during the day should Saxenda be injected?

    You don’t have to worry about a specific time to use Saxenda. You can pick a time that works best for you, so it’s easy to remember. Whether you want to take it with or without food it’s your choice. Saxenda gives you the flexibility to choose what’s most convenient for you.

14. Where should Saxenda be injected into the body?

    It’s important to know where to inject Saxenda. You should never inject it into a muscle or a vein. Instead, you should give it as a subcutaneous injection. This means you inject it just under your skin. You can do this in your upper arm, thigh, or belly.

15. Is it necessary for a healthcare professional to administer Saxenda injections?

    You don’t need a doctor to give you Saxenda injections. You can do it yourself with a special pen that comes pre-filled. But if you’re having trouble using the pen correctly, it’s okay to talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They can help you learn how to use it and give you more information.

16. How long is the course of Saxenda?

    The duration of treatment with Saxenda varies depending on the individual’s weight loss goals. For some individuals with chronic obesity, long-term treatment with Saxenda may be necessary. However, it’s important to note that patients using this medication will undergo regular monitoring by their physician throughout treatment. Adjustments to the medication dosage or treatment plan may be made as necessary to ensure the most effective and safe weight management strategy.

17. Is it safe to use Saxenda if you have a pre-existing weight-related health condition?

    Saxenda can help you in weight loss. When people are overweight, they can have other health problems like high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Even though Saxenda doesn’t directly treat these problems, losing weight with Saxenda can make these other problems get better.
    So, if you have high cholesterol or high blood pressure, talk to your doctor. They can help you decide if Saxenda might be a good choice for you to lose weight and improve those other health issues. You should consult your doctor for the best advice.

18. What is the functioning of Saxenda medicine?

    Saxenda lowers the levels of certain appetite hormones in your body, called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). When these hormones are reduced, it makes you feel less hungry. As a result, you eat fewer calories, which can help you lose weight.

19. What is the proper method for disposing of Saxenda?

    Guide to Safely Disposing of Saxenda:
    1. First, be sure to remove the needle from the Saxenda pen safely.
    2. It’s really important to do this because if the needle is not removed properly, it can lead to infections and leaks.
    3. Once you’ve safely removed the needle, it’s time to get rid of the used Saxenda pen.
    4. Don’t keep the pen around for too long after you’ve opened it; after 30 days, it’s time to throw it away.

20. How to store Saxenda?

    How to Store Saxenda Safely:
    1. Keep Saxenda in the fridge at temperatures between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C).
    2. After using it, you can leave Saxenda out at room temperature or put it back in the fridge for up to 4 weeks.
    3. Remember to protect Saxenda from light; don’t let it be in direct sunlight.
    4. Never use Saxenda if it has been frozen, as that’s not safe.
    5. Lastly, make sure to store Saxenda where children can’t reach it.

21. What crucial information should I provide to my doctor before starting Saxenda medication?

    Before using Saxenda, make sure to tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including vitamins and supplements you add to your diet. Don’t use Saxenda if you’ve had a problem in the past called medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome type 2. Saxenda should not be taken if you’re pregnant, or if you’re allergic to liraglutide.
    Also, let your doctor know if you’re taking other medicines like GLP-1 agonists or diabetes medicines (insulin and sulfonylurea products). If you are suffering from depression or self-harming thoughts, or if you have issues with your kidneys, pancreas, liver, or stomach, or if you’re breastfeeding, you should talk to your doctor.

22. What are the side effects of Saxenda?

    Some Common side effects of Saxenda are:
    Nausea, abdominal pain, Headache, Diarrhea, Pain in the Stomach, Dizziness, Change of enzyme level in the blood, Injection reactions can be seen, Constipation, Tiredness, Vomiting, Low blood sugar, Changes to enzyme levels in your blood.
    Some serious side effects of Saxenda are:
    A severe drop in sugar level in the blood, Kidney-related issues, Pancreatitis, gallbladder-related problems, Depression and Anxiety, and Low Blood Pressure.

23. If you forget to take a dose of the Saxenda medication, what should you do?

    If you forget to take your Saxenda medicine, don’t take an additional dose on the next day or increase your dose. Just take your usual dose the following day as you normally would. But, if you accidentally miss Saxenda for more than three days, get in touch with your doctor to figure out how to start taking it again.

24. What are the side effects of Saxenda overdose?

    If you accidentally take too much Saxenda, it’s important to act quickly. You should either immediately reach the emergency room or get in touch with the Poison Control Center. Taking too much Saxenda can make your blood sugar drop, and you might feel sick with nausea and vomiting. It’s important to take help as soon as possible if it happens.

25. Can we consume Saxenda for the long term?

    To manage your weight, you can consume it for the long term.

26. Is it necessary to consume Saxenda with food?

    It’s totally up to you whether you want to take it with or without food.

27. What’s the prescribed way to use Saxenda?

    How to use Saxenda:
    Your healthcare provider will guide you on how to use Saxenda. Follow their instructions carefully. Take Saxenda once a day, at any time that works for you. Inject it under your skin in the stomach, upper arm, or thigh, avoiding muscles or veins. Change the injection site daily to avoid reusing the same spot.
    Starting and Increasing the Dose:
    Begin with 0.6 mg of Saxenda daily in the first week.. In the second week, you can increase your dose to 1.2 mg daily. In the third week, take 1.8 mg daily, and in the fourth week, use 2.4 mg. Keep increasing your dose until you reach a total of 3 mg per dose. You should not change your dose unless instructed by your doctor. Children who can’t tolerate the 3 mg dose may take 2.4 mg daily.
    Diet and Exercise:
    Your physician will also recommend a diet and exercise plan to follow while taking Saxenda. Continue with this program as directed by your healthcare provider. This approach will help you use Saxenda effectively and safely.