
What is Saxenda?
Saxenda, also known as liraglutide, is a daily injectable prescription medication. It is a glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist used for chronic weight management along with a lower-calorie diet and exercise in:
- Adult patients with an initial body mass index (BMI) of
- 30 kg/m2 (diagnosis of obesity), or
- 27 kg/m2 (overweight) with at least one weight-related comorbid condition such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hypertension, or dyslipidemia)
- Pediatric patients aged 12 years and older with:
- A body weight greater than 60 kg (132 pounds) and
- A BMI corresponding to 30 kg/m2 for adults (obese) by international cut-offs
Saxenda has a few limitations to its use. These include:
- Co-administration with other GLP-1 receptor agonists or other products containing the active ingredient liraglutide like Victoza
- Pediatric patients with a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, as safety and efficacy has not been confirmed in this population
- Combination with other weight loss medication, as safety and efficacy has not been confirmed when used with other products
How is Saxenda Used?
This medication is injected underneath the skin (subcutaneously) once per day and used alongside changes to a patient’s dietary habits and level of physical activity to assist them in losing and managing their weight.
Storage
Unused and new Saxenda pens should be stored in the refrigerator between the temperatures of 36°F (2°C) and 46°F (8°C). This medication should never be frozen, and if accidental freezing of this medication does occur, it should not be used afterward.
After initial use of the Saxenda pen, the pen can be stored for 30 days at controlled room temperature (59°F to 86°F; 15°C to 30°C) or in a refrigerator (36°F to 46°F; 2°C to 8°C). Keep the pen cap on when not in use. Protect Saxenda from excessive heat and sunlight. Always remove and safely discard the needle after each injection and store the Saxenda pen without an injection needle attached. This will reduce the potential for contamination, infection, and leakage while also ensuring dosing accuracy.
The injection pens should be disposed of after 30 days have passed since their first use.
Keep this medication out of the reach of children at all times.
Dosage
Saxenda comes in a single dosage form: prefilled pens.
These pens are pre-filled with a solution containing liraglutide at a concentration of 6 milligrams per milliliter (mg/mL). The pens themselves are disposable and can deliver five different doses: 0.6mg, 1.2mg, 1.8mg, 2.4mg, and 3mg.
Saxenda typically starts with a low dose that gradually increases over time. In the second week, the usual dose is 1.2 mg, then increases to 1.8 mg in the third week, 2.4 mg in the fourth week, and reaches a maintenance dose of 3 mg per day by the fifth week and beyond.
Overdose
If an overdose of this medication has occurred or is suspected, patients should contact their physician or their local Poison Control Center. If an overdose has occurred and the individual experiences serious side effects such as losing consciousness or becoming unable to breathe, emergency medical attention should be sought immediately.
Side Effects from Use of Saxenda
Common side effects of Saxenda include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Injection site reactions
- Headache
- Dyspepsia
- Hypoglycemia
- Fatigue
- Stomach pain
- Dizziness and loss of coordination
- Alterations to serum lipase levels
* this is not a complete list – always consult with a healthcare professional for safety information
Warnings & Precautions
Breast Cancer
The use of this medication has been associated with an increased risk of some patients developing breast cancer. Those with a family or personal history of breast cancer or who have any concerns about the potential risks of such a development should discuss this with their physician.
Dehydration
Some patients may experience dehydration at the beginning of treatment due to the common side effects of diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting that occur in those who have just begun using the medication. Patients should contact their physician if they experience dehydration symptoms such as a decrease in urine production, dizziness, headaches, and feeling excessively thirsty.
Depression and Suicidal Ideation
This medication may cause some patients to experience new or worsening depression as well as suicidal ideation and other changes in behavior and mood. If you are using Saxenda and experience psychological changes or notice these changes in another individual that may be using this medication, the prescribing physician of the individual experiencing such shifts in mood and behavior should be informed as soon as possible.
Gallstones
This medication is associated with an increased frequency of gallstones developing in some patients, as gallstone formation is a common occurrence in individuals who experience a rapid or significant amount of weight loss. Patients using this medication who experience any of the following symptoms of gallstones should inform their physician as soon as possible: nausea, pain between the shoulder blades, pain underneath the right shoulder, severe abdominal pain, and vomiting.
Geriatric Patients
Patients above the age of 65 years old may be more likely to experience certain side effects when using this medication compared to other age groups.
Heart-Related Issues
This medication is associated with causing an increased heart rate in those using it and may also impact how the heart muscle processes electrical activity. Any individuals with heart disease or a history of abnormal heart rhythm should inform their doctor of such conditions before beginning treatment with this medication, as preexisting heart-related issues may result in the patient requiring additional monitoring during treatment or changes in their dosage of Saxenda.
Hepatic Function
It has not been determined how safe or effective this medication is in those who have impaired liver function. Patients who have liver disease or impaired hepatic function may require changes in dosage or additional monitoring when using this medication, and impaired liver function may also affect the efficacy of treatment with Saxenda.
Hypoglycemia
Some individuals using this medication may experience a drop in their blood glucose levels, especially those who are taking a sulfonylurea medication to manage high blood glucose levels. Those using Saxenda who experience the following symptoms of low blood sugar levels should contact their physician: cold sweat, confusion, feeling lightheaded, headache, hunger, nervousness, rapid heart rate, shakiness, tingling or numbness of the lips or tongue, or weakness.
Intestinal Tract Issues
It has not been determined how safe or effective this medication may be for those with certain intestinal conditions, such as those who experience slow movement within the intestines as a result of diabetes, those who have ulcerative colitis, or those with Crohn’s disease. Individuals with any health conditions that impact the intestinal tract should inform their physician of this aspect of their medical history before beginning treatment with Saxenda. Changes in the dosage of the medication or additional monitoring of the patient during treatment may be required.
Pancreatitis
This medication may cause some individuals to experience inflammation of the pancreas. Any patient using this medication who experiences abdominal pain that is persistent or severe, and may or may not be accompanied by vomiting, should inform their prescribing physician of this immediately. Those who have previously experienced pancreatitis should inform their physician of this before beginning treatment, as this factor may impact the dosage and efficacy of the medication and may also require additional monitoring of the patient during treatment.
Pediatric Patients
It has not been determined if this medication is safe or effective in children below the age of 12 years old.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
This medication should not be used by patients who are pregnant as its safety and efficacy in these individuals have not been studied. Any individuals using this medication who become pregnant during treatment should inform their prescribing physician as soon as possible.
Additionally, it has not been determined if this medication passes into breast milk. Due to the potential risks of this medication possibly affecting a breastfed child, patients desiring to breastfeed while using this medication should discuss the matter with their physician for further guidance.
Renal Function
It has not been determined how safe or effective this medication is in those who have impaired kidney function. Patients who have kidney disease or impaired renal function may require changes in dosage or additional monitoring when using this medication, and impaired kidney function may also affect the efficacy of treatment with Saxenda.
Thyroid Cancer
This medication has been associated with the development of certain thyroid cancers in those who have used it. Individuals with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 or who have a personal or family medical history that includes thyroid cancer should avoid using Saxenda due to a higher risk of potentially developing such conditions.
Saxenda: Drug Interactions
Orally Administered Drugs
Saxenda reduces the rate of gastric emptying, potentially causing Saxenda to slow the absorption rate of other oral drugs. Providers should take caution when patients are taking oral medications concomitantly with Saxenda, as a decreased oral absorption rate may reduce the clinical effectiveness of important medications.
Consult a Healthcare Provider for all Safety and Dosage Information
Regarding drug interactions, side effects, and dosage: the above content is just a summary and not a complete list of important information. Always consult with your healthcare provider – doctor, nurse, or pharmacist – on all safety information when considering treatment with Saxenda.
Alternative Medications
For patients who are unable to take this medication or are experiencing significant adverse side effects, alternative medications may be used to treat some of the associated conditions for which this medication is commonly prescribed:
Saxenda Price & Discounts
Buy Saxenda Online Canada
For those in the US looking to purchase Saxenda, a significant cost-saving option is available through Pharma Giant, a Canadian source. Saxenda, a prescription medication used for chronic weight management in adults who have obesity or are overweight, can be notably expensive in the United States. The cost for 5 pens can exceed $1,640, posing a financial challenge for many.
With a prescription, Americans can order Saxenda online for only $515 for 5 pens. This price represents a substantial saving compared to US prices. Medication is express shipped in insulated packaging to maintain temperature throughout delivery.
Coupon for Saxenda
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Frequently Asked Questions
Buying Saxenda from Canada
FDA-Prescription, Off-Label Information, and Limitations
Dosage & Administration
Adverse Reactions
Food & Drug Interactions
Storage & Travel
Drug Comparison
Disclaimer
Pharma Giant provides medical information to help you better understand medications and medical conditions.This content is for informational use only and does not replace advice from a licensed medical practitioner. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medication. All our partners follow strict safety standards set by their country’s health authorities to make sure you receive safe and high-quality medications.






