Saxenda is a prescription medication that helps with weight management and weight loss. If you have a body mass index (BMI) that falls within the range doctors use to diagnose overweight or obesity, or if you live with a weight-related medical problem like high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes, your healthcare provider may prescribe Saxenda as part of your weight loss plan. It is meant to be used along with a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity to help you lose weight safely and keep it off. Understanding what is Saxenda and how it can help you reach your health goals can help you make better decisions about your entire treatment plan.
Key Takeaways
- Saxenda is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps people with obesity or excess body weight achieve meaningful weight loss
- It works best when combined with a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity
- Saxenda must be prescribed by a healthcare provider and is taken as a once-daily injection
- A Registered Diabetes Dietitian can help you build a personalized meal and activity plan that works alongside your Saxenda treatment for better results and long-term success
What is Saxenda?
Saxenda, also known as Saxenda liraglutide, is a prescription medication that has been approved by the FDA for chronic weight management in certain adults. It is used along with a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity to help people lose weight and keep it off.
Saxenda belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic a hormone that your body naturally produces. This hormone helps regulate your appetite by slowing gastric emptying and signaling to your brain that you feel full sooner. Over time, this can help reduce the amount of food you eat and make it easier to stick to your weight loss goals.
Saxenda is typically prescribed to adult patients who have a body mass index of 30 or higher, or to those with a BMI of 27 or more who also live with a weight-related comorbid condition like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes.
If you are living with diabetes, Saxenda may help improve blood sugar levels in addition to helping with clinically meaningful weight loss.
It is important to understand that diabetes is a condition in which your body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot properly use the insulin that it does produce. This leads to high blood sugar levels, which, over time, can lead to some very serious health complications. Because weight plays a key role in blood sugar control, many people with diabetes may be prescribed Saxenda to help tackle both of these issues at the same time.
How Does Saxenda Work?
If you have ever felt that hunger hits harder or more often than you’d like, especially when you’re trying to lose weight, you’re not alone. Saxenda works by specifically targeting some of the same biological pathways that naturally help you regulate your appetite and deal with how your body responds to food.
Is Saxenda a GLP-1?
If you’re wondering if Saxenda is a GLP-1, the answer is yes. It mimics a hormone called glucagon like peptide 1, which your body naturally releases after eating. This hormone plays a few important roles that influence both your metabolism and appetite.
How Does Saxenda Work?
First, Saxenda slows down gastric emptying, which means that food stays in your stomach a little bit longer than normal. This gives you a feeling of fullness that lasts, which can help you eat less at your next meal.
Second, it enhances your body’s natural insulin secretion, but only when your blood sugar levels are rising. This gives your body the ability to better manage your glucose after meals without increasing your risk of low blood sugar.
And finally, Saxenda affects specific parts of your brain that deal with appetite regulation. By reducing the signals that trigger hunger, it helps you feel satisfied with eating less food.
What Does Saxenda Do?
Over time, these combinations of effects make it easier to cut back on calories without feeling hungry or deprived. When you take this medication along with increasing your physical activity, this hormone-based approach can help you stick with your body weight loss goals and see some very meaningful changes in how your body feels and functions.
So, does Saxenda work? For many people, yes! It works by addressing both the physical and hormonal drivers of hunger. That is why it can be such a valuable tool for people that are managing body weight in a medical setting, especially when ongoing challenges with their appetite make lasting change feel out of reach.
What the Research Shows About Saxenda Use
If you are wondering what kind of results people see when using Saxenda, the outcomes have been very positive. Clinical trials have provided some clear data on how Saxenda helps with body weight loss and what you can realistically expect over time when the medication is used as prescribed.
In major clinical trials involving thousands of participants, patients treated with Saxenda experienced significantly more body weight loss than those who were given a placebo. In one important study, adults who followed a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity while using Saxenda lost an average of 12 pounds more than patients taking placebo over the course of about one year.
Some people also saw more clinically significant weight loss, with results showing 5% to 10% reductions in their initial body weight. These changes were often sustained over time, especially in those who stayed on the medication and kept up their healthy habits.
Photos or anecdotes shared online showing Saxenda before and after stories can be encouraging, but it’s important to remember that everyone’s body responds differently and at its own pace. While Saxenda results can vary, the science behind the medication continues to show promising outcomes for people who have struggled to lose weight through lifestyle changes alone.
Whether your goal is to reduce your risk factors, improve your energy levels, or feel more comfortable in your own body, Saxenda has been shown to offer a real path forward when it is used consistently and along with the right lifestyle changes.
How Long Does it Take to See Results With Saxenda?
Like many prescription medications, Saxenda works gradually, giving your body the time that it needs to adjust. When you first begin using it, your healthcare provider will start you on a lower dose that slowly increases over several weeks. This process, called dose escalation, helps reduce the chances of side effects while your body becomes used to the medication. Most people reach the maintenance dose (which is the full therapeutic amount) after about five weeks.
Once you reach the maintenance dose, that is when Saxenda begins to work better in terms of appetite control and significant weight loss. For many people, the first signs that Saxenda works is a decrease in food cravings and the ability to feel full sooner during meals. These subtle changes can start as early as week two or three, with more noticeable body weight changes often appearing by week eight or later, especially when the medication is paired with a reduced calorie eating plan and increased physical activity.
Some people experience faster results, while others may progress more slowly. If you are not losing weight on Saxenda, it may be helpful to look at other factors like your meal patterns, activity level, or even stress levels and the quality of sleep that you are getting. Staying consistent with your injections and checking in on a regular basis with your healthcare provider or registered dietitian can make a big difference in how well Saxenda lost pounds are maintained over time.
Who Can Benefit from Saxenda?
Saxenda is specifically designed for adult patients who are looking for a medication that can help with chronic body weight management when lifestyle changes alone haven’t been enough in the past.
You may be a good candidate for Saxenda if your body mass index is 30 or higher, or 27 or higher if you also have a weight related comorbid condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. These conditions can often make it harder to lose weight, and Saxenda can be a helpful part of a comprehensive treatment plan that also includes changes to your diet, physical activity, and overall lifestyle.
However, Saxenda is not right for everyone. If you have a personal or family history of certain health conditions, your healthcare provider may recommend another option. This is especially important if you have any past or present cancer risks related to the thyroid.
Conditions That May Require Caution
There are a few specific health concerns that require special consideration before using Saxenda:
- Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC): This is a rare form of thyroid cancer. If you or someone in your family has ever had MTC, or has had thyroid tumors or thyroid cancer, Saxenda is not recommended.
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2): This genetic condition increases the risk of developing certain thyroid tumors, and Saxenda should be avoided in these cases.
- Thyroid cancer: If you have been treated for any form of thyroid tumor or thyroid cancer, you and your doctor should discuss the risks carefully before beginning treatment.
- Acute gallbladder disease: Since Saxenda can affect the gastrointestinal system, people with current or past gallbladder problems, or accute gallbladder disease may need a different plan. If you experience upper abdominal pain, you should see your doctor immediately.
4+ Common Saxenda Side Effects
Like any medication, Saxenda can come with its own set of side effects, and knowing what to expect can help you feel more in control of your experience. Most patients treated with Saxenda notice mild to moderate side effects, especially in the first few weeks as your body adjusts to the medication.
1. Digestive Symptoms
The most common reactions involve the digestive system. You might experience gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Some people also report abdominal pain or bloating.
2. Injection Site Reactions
Since Saxenda is given as a daily injection, it’s also possible to have injection site reactions like redness, itching, or swelling where the medication is injected.
3. Hypersensitivity Reactions
In some cases, you may develop hypersensitivity reactions, which could feel like a rash, dizziness, or swelling in your face or throat. These reactions are rare, but they should be taken very seriously. If you ever have signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing or trouble swallowing, stop the medication and contact your healthcare provider immediately.
4. More Severe Symptoms
In very rare cases, Saxenda has been linked to more serious risks. These include acute pancreatitis, which can cause intense stomach pain that does not go away, and pulmonary aspiration, which happens when the stomach contents accidentally enter the lungs.
Some people may also experience suicidal thoughts, especially those with a personal or family history of depression or other mood disorders.
Always share any new or worsening symptoms with your healthcare provider. They can help you weigh out the benefits and the risks, make dose adjustments if needed, and ensure you stay safe while still being able to work toward your body weight management goals.
Interactions and Cautions With Saxenda
While Saxenda can be good for chronic weight management, it is important that you understand how it may interact with other substances or medications you take regularly. Some over the counter drugs, prescription drugs, and even other medications you may not think twice about can increase the risk of side effects or interfere with how well Saxenda works in your body.
If you drink alcohol, this may add strain to your digestive system and liver, which are already involved in processing Saxenda. Alcohol can also make it harder to maintain healthy eating habits or blood sugar control, especially if you are managing diabetes or weight-related medical conditions.
Your healthcare provider will likely instruct patients to keep an up-to-date list of all medications and supplements they are taking. This allows for better guidance and reduces the chance of harmful interactions. If you start or stop any medication, or notice any new symptoms, it is very important that you let your provider know right away.
How to Inject a Saxenda Pen
Injecting Saxenda is a very simple process once you understand the steps involved. This medication comes in a prefilled injection pen, which is designed for daily use at home.
You’ll use the pen to inject Saxenda just under your skin (this is called a subcutaneous injection). You can choose to inject it in your upper arm, abdomen (avoiding a 2-inch area around your belly button), or upper thigh. It is important that you rotate the injection sites daily to reduce any skin irritation.
Before using the pen, wash your hands and clean the injection area with an alcohol swab. Remove the pen cap, attach a new needle, check the flow, select your dose, and inject as directed. Always follow the instructions given by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
If you miss a dose and remember within 12 hours, go ahead and take it. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double up. If you miss multiple doses, reach out to your provider to ask whether you should restart dose escalation.
Diet, Activity & Saxenda
Saxenda works best when it is paired with consistent lifestyle changes that help you reach and maintain your goals. This means combining the medication with a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity.
While Saxenda helps reduce your appetite, your body still needs the right fuel and movement to help you lose body weight in a way that best supports your long-term health.
Your healthcare provider may recommend physical activity counseling, which gives you realistic, safe ways to build more movement into your daily life. This might include short walks after meals, using a step tracker, or choosing activities that you enjoy and can do on a regular basis.
Eating well is just as important. A focus on healthy nutrition means choosing meals that are rich in lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats while limiting added sugars and processed foods. It can be a great idea to work with a dietitian to identify foods to avoid while on Saxenda that may interfere with your significant weight loss efforts or that could increase the medication’s side effects.
It’s important to remember that Saxenda works best when it is part of a complete plan that includes nutrition, exercise, and accountability. Whether you’re starting small or building on healthy habits you already have, making these changes while being treated with Saxenda can improve your chances of success and help you feel better as you move forward.
Comparing Saxenda to Other GLP-1s
GLP-1 receptor agonists have become a good option for many people that are trying to deal with body weight management or diabetes. Saxenda stands out because it is specifically approved for significant weight loss, while others in this class, like Ozempic, are mainly used for managing blood sugar in type 2 diabetes.
What makes Saxenda different is how it is formulated. It contains the same active ingredient (liraglutide) as the diabetes medication Victoza, but in a higher dose. This higher dose is designed to target weight loss in people who meet specific criteria, such as having a high body mass index or a body weight-related medical problem.
In terms of Saxenda weight loss, studies show that it can help many people lose a meaningful amount of body weight when combined with healthy changes in diet and activity. How well Saxenda works can vary from person to person, but it has been shown to be effective when taken consistently as prescribed. If you’re wondering about other alternatives for weight loss, Saxenda is usually one of the first options considered.
How a Dietitian Can Help
When you are being treated with Saxenda, having the right help along the way can make a big difference in how well it works for your unique body and lifestyle. That is where a registered dietitian can provide valuable guidance.
A dietitian does more than just talk about food. They help you create a realistic plan that fits your personal routine, personal or family history, and goals. Whether you are adjusting your meals, increasing your daily activity, or are trying to figure out how to manage appetite changes, they can show you how to make the right choices to best support your body weight loss efforts.
At DietitianLive, you can meet with a licensed healthcare provider remotely from the comfort of your home. With most major insurance plans, sessions are offered at $0 out-of-pocket, so getting professional support is now more accessible than ever.
Our registered dietitians are trained to help people using Saxenda get the most from their treatment while also focusing on long-term health habits that last. If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey, we invite you to book your DietitianLive appointment today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to lose 20 pounds on Saxenda?
The time it takes to lose 20 pounds while being treated with Saxenda varies from person to person. Many adult patients begin seeing a reduction in appetite within the first few weeks, and with consistent use, a gradual drop in weight can follow. Based on clinical trials, some patients reached 20 pounds of weight loss in about 4 to 6 months when the medication was combined with healthy nutrition, a reduced-calorie eating plan, and more daily activity. The weight loss achieved will depend on how your body responds and how consistently you stick to your plan.
Is Saxenda the same as Ozempic?
While Saxenda and Ozempic both belong to the same class of medications—GLP-1 receptor agonists—they are not the same. Saxenda contains the same active ingredient as Victoza (liraglutide), while Ozempic contains semaglutide. Both medications act on the glucagon like peptide 1 pathway to help regulate appetite and insulin, but they are prescribed in different doses and for different medical goals. Saxenda is specifically approved for weight management, whereas Ozempic is primarily prescribed for blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes.
How much weight can you lose in a month with Saxenda?
The amount of weight loss in the first month depends on your starting dose, your habits, and how your body responds. During the dose escalation period, the focus is on reaching your maintenance dose gradually while minimizing side effects. That means most patients see modest results in the first few weeks, often losing 2–4 pounds. Clinical trials showed that patients taking placebo lost significantly less than those treated with Saxenda, and weight loss tends to pick up once you reach the full therapeutic dose. What matters most is maintaining weight loss steadily and safely over time.
What is the biggest side effect of Saxenda?
The most common side effects of Saxenda tend to affect your digestive system. Many patients treated with Saxenda experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, constipation, or diarrhea, especially in the early weeks. Abdominal pain is also a frequent complaint, though it usually improves as your body adjusts. Less commonly, people may experience more serious risks like allergic reaction, pulmonary aspiration, or acute pancreatitis. If you ever notice severe abdominal pain that doesn’t go away or signs of trouble breathing or swallowing, you should stop the medication and speak to your provider right away.
Does Saxenda get rid of belly fat?
Saxenda is not targeted to remove fat from any one area of your body. Instead, it helps you lose weight overall by addressing hunger cues and helping you feel full sooner. Over time, this can result in reductions in body fat, including around your abdomen, especially when paired with healthy nutrition and more physical activity. What makes Saxenda effective is how it slows gastric emptying and helps reduce calorie intake in a manageable way. That said, how and where you lose weight varies from person to person based on genetics, hormones, and activity levels.
What are the cons of Saxenda weight loss?
While Saxenda offers a path toward clinically meaningful weight loss, there are some things to consider. The most notable concerns are the potential side effects like nausea, injection site irritation, and rare but serious risks like thyroid cancer or acute gallbladder disease. It’s also not recommended for pediatric patients or those with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma. For some people, the cost or need for daily injections may also feel like a challenge. However, many adult patients find that the benefits (especially in terms of reduced appetite and better control over food cravings) can outweigh these drawbacks when the medication is used as prescribed.
Does Saxenda burn fat or just suppress appetite?
Saxenda works by mimicking a hormone called glucagon like peptide 1, which affects how your body responds to food. It helps regulate hunger signals in your brain, slows gastric emptying, and increases feelings of fullness after meals. So while it doesn’t directly “burn” fat like a thermogenic supplement, it creates the right conditions to help you eat less and lose weight in a steady, sustainable way. That appetite control, when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and more movement, makes it much easier to lose weight and improve your overall health.
