What is Saxenda (Liraglutide Daily Injection)?

 

This medication was initially approved for diabetic patients in 2009 to help control their blood sugar and their diabetes. One of the side effects noted was weight loss. This prompted the manufacturer to carry out clinical trials using the drug for weight loss. Following excellent results, the medication was re-branded and re-licensed for weight loss in 2017. It has recently been approved by NICE as safe to use by the NHS.

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How do I use it?

 

The medication comes as a pre-filled injectable pen. You inject yourself in an area where you can pinch a good amount of meat (aka subcutaeneous fat). This can be the stomach area, the notorious love handle areas, top of the thighs or even the bottom! You use a CLEAN and NEW needle every day, disposing of the needle after each injection. Your starting dose is discussed during consultation and any changes in your dosing will be reviewed regularly as your body adjusts to the medication.

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Any side effects?

 

Like any new medication introduced to your body, your body will have to adjust to it. Some people get mild side effects, such as headaches, nausea, dry mouth or tiredness. These side effects are generally mild and are transient - which means they will go after a few days once your body has adjusted.

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Some clients experience no side effects, whilst the majority of our own clients experience LESS side effects than the daily jab. During the consultation we go through the side effects & how to deal with them. We also send you aftercare information on how to deal with any potential side effects, along with the Patient Information Leaflet which goes into greater detail.

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Where can I get this from?

 

This is a prescription-only medication and must be prescribed by a qualified pharmacist following a consultation. Your full medical history and circumstances should be taken into account to ensure safety & suitability.

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We prescribe and dispense only from within the UK, who source the medication directly from the manufacturer.

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Can I use it?

 

We take into account a range of factors such as:

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• BMI

• Medical History

• Current Medication

• Body measurements

• Eating habits

• Past diets

• Current exercise levels

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The programme is not suitable for:

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• Under 18's

• Ladies who are breastfeeding, pregnant or actively trying to get pregnant.

• Type 1 diabetics

• Anyone with a history of pancreatitis or thyroid tumours

• Anyone with direct family members who have had thyroid cancer

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How much can I lose with Saxenda?

 

During the current initial clinical trials by the manufacturer, the average weight loss has been calculated as between 8lbs and 15lbs. Everyone is different, so your weight loss may be more or less. Try not to compare yourself to others losing weight - focus on yourself, your goals and your progress. - your safety is paramount.

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Can I drink alcohol whilst on the programme?

 

Although alcohol does not directly interact with the medication, we do advise people to avoid alcohol if possible. If you do have a drink whilst using the pen, do not drink on an empty stomach & limit it to 1 small glass of wine or one 25ml spirit with a light mixer. Alcohol is also empty calories and may reduce the potential achievable weight loss.

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How many pens will I need?

 

This depends on what dose you are on, how well you take to the medication and your overall target weight.

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If you only wish to lose around 13lbs, then one pen should be sufficient. For further weight loss, you may require more pens. This will be assessed on a case-by-case basis to ensure continuing safety & suitability under our medical duty of care to you.

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How much is it?

 

Please see our prices page (below).