Saxenda: Prescription Weight Management
Manage appetite and support lasting weight loss with a clinically supervised prescription treatment.
Treatment overview
Treatment Essentials
Starting Saxenda involves a clinical assessment to confirm suitability, education on self-injection technique, and a personalised titration schedule. The dose is increased weekly over several weeks to reach the maintenance dose, which helps reduce side effects and improve tolerance. Expect common transient effects such as nausea, which usually settles over time. Your prescriber will advise on monitoring, potential interactions with other medications, and signs that require urgent attention. Ongoing follow-up appointments ensure the treatment is effective and safe, and allow adjustments to lifestyle advice and medication as needed.
Prescription only
Daily administration
Supports weight loss
Clinical monitoring required
Clinical consultation
Assessment and Prescription
During an initial consultation, a healthcare professional will review medical history, current medications, and weight-loss goals to determine if Saxenda is appropriate. Clinical checks may include blood pressure, glucose levels, and assessment for contraindications such as personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma. If prescribed, the clinician will demonstrate injection technique and provide dosing instructions. Follow-up appointments monitor effectiveness, side effects, and adherence. Lifestyle counselling on diet and exercise is provided throughout treatment to optimise outcomes. Open communication with your provider helps tailor therapy and manage any concerns promptly.
How it works
GLP-1 receptor agonist reduces appetite.
Who it's for
Adults with obesity or overweight plus conditions.
Medical support
Prescribed and monitored by clinicians.
Key Points About Saxenda
Saxenda is a prescription GLP-1 receptor agonist indicated for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight and at least one weight-related comorbidity. Treatment begins with a low daily dose that is gradually increased to the therapeutic dose to minimise gastrointestinal side effects. Patients should use Saxenda alongside a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity. Regular follow-up with a healthcare professional is essential to monitor weight change, side effects, blood sugar, and to assess continued benefit. Saxenda is not suitable for everyone; a clinician will evaluate medical history, other medications, and potential contraindications before prescribing.
Clinically proven for weight loss
Daily subcutaneous injection
Requires prescription and monitoring
Works with diet and exercise
Frequently Asked Questions
Common patient questions about Saxenda, answered clearly.
What is Saxenda?
Saxenda is a prescription injectable medication (liraglutide) used for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight and at least one weight-related condition. It works by reducing appetite and helping control caloric intake.
How is Saxenda taken?
Saxenda is administered as a once-daily subcutaneous injection. Treatment typically starts at a low dose that is gradually increased to reduce side effects; your clinician will provide dosing instructions and demonstrate injection technique.
What side effects should I expect?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and headache. Most are transient. Rare but serious risks include pancreatitis and gallbladder issues. Report severe abdominal pain or persistent symptoms immediately.
Who can prescribe Saxenda?
A qualified healthcare professional must prescribe Saxenda after assessing your medical history, current medications, and suitability. Regular monitoring and follow-up are required during treatment.
Do I need to change my lifestyle?
Yes. Saxenda is intended to be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Lifestyle changes enhance treatment effectiveness and long-term results.
Personalised care
Individualised Treatment and Support
Every Saxenda treatment plan is individualised. We prioritise safe prescribing, patient education, and ongoing support to help you reach realistic weight goals. Our clinicians assess risk factors and tailor follow-up intervals to monitor progress and tolerability, combining medication with lifestyle guidance for best results.
Safe use and monitoring
Usage, Side Effects, and Follow-up
Saxenda dosing follows a gradual escalation schedule to reach the maintenance dose, reducing intolerance risk. Patients should inject once daily, at any time of day, with or without food. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and headache; most are transient. Serious but rare risks include pancreatitis and gallbladder disease; report severe abdominal pain or persistent symptoms immediately. If side effects are troublesome, clinicians can adjust the titration pace. Regular monitoring and follow-up visits help ensure safety and support sustained weight-loss efforts.
