Saxenda for Weight Loss

What is Saxenda?

Saxenda is a weight-loss injection containing liraglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist developed by Novo Nordisk. It is specifically approved for weight loss and obesity management. You administer the injection daily through a subcutaneous injection, similar to insulin. Saxenda was the first GLP-1 medication approved for weight loss and has had the longest track record since 2015. In SCALE studies, patients achieved average weight loss of 8-10%, with more than 63% losing at least 5% of their weight.

How Does Saxenda Work?

Saxenda contains liraglutide, which binds to GLP-1 receptors in your brain. This regulates your appetite through the hypothalamus, slows stomach emptying, and improves satiety. In other words: you feel full sooner, stay full longer, and have less hunger. Because liraglutide is administered daily, you have more control over your dosage and can adjust it more precisely. Liraglutide has a shorter half-life (approximately 13 hours) compared to semaglutide (approximately 7 days), meaning your body breaks it down faster.

This gradual increase helps your body adjust and reduces the chance of gastrointestinal issues. The maintenance dose of 3.0 mg per day is the effective therapeutic dose.

• Average weight loss of 8-10%
• 63% of patients achieved ≥5% weight loss
• 35% of patients achieved ≥10% weight loss
• Improvement in cardiovascular risk factors
• Lower blood pressure and cholesterol
• Improved blood sugar levels

Injection Instructions

Saxenda is administered daily as a subcutaneous injection. You can choose from three injection sites: your abdomen, the top of your thigh, or the back of your upper arm. It is important to administer the injection at the same time of day, ideally around the same time. Vary the injection site from day to day to prevent skin irritation. Use a new injection needle for each injection.

Storage of Saxenda

Saxenda must be stored carefully. Unused pens: store in the refrigerator at 2-8°C. Ensure it does not freeze. After first use: you can store it for up to 30 days at a maximum of 30°C. Always keep Saxenda away from light and heat. Check before use that the liquid is clear and colourless.

Missed Dose

Missed by less than 12 hours? Then give yourself the injection anyway. Missed by more than 12 hours? Skip this dose and give yourself your injection at the normal time the next day. Never give yourself a double dose to make up for a missed dose, even if you forgot your injection at the normal time.

Tips for gastrointestinal issues: eat smaller portions, avoid fatty foods, drink plenty of water, and eat slowly. Most issues resolve after a few weeks.

• Are allergic to liraglutide or any ingredient
• Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2)
• Are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
• Are under 18 years old
• Have severe gastrointestinal problems (e.g., stomach paralysis)
• Are using other GLP-1 receptor agonists (such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro) at the same time

Always consult your doctor before starting, especially if you have other medical conditions.

Health Insurance

Saxenda is not reimbursed by basic health insurance in the Netherlands for weight loss, as it is considered a cosmetic treatment. Some supplementary insurance policies may contribute in part, but this varies widely. Check your policy or contact your health insurer. At Go Leaner, we help you with all information about costs and possible reimbursement.