Saxenda injection: effect, application and FAQs

Who developed Saxenda?

Manufacturer

Saxenda is produced by Novo Nordisk, a global pharmaceutical company based in Denmark. Novo Nordisk also produces other well-known weight loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy.

Availability in Germany

Saxenda has been on the market since 2015 and is available on prescription in several countries, including Germany. It is offered as a prefilled pen for subcutaneous injections.

For which application is Saxenda approved?

Saxenda is approved for the treatment of adults with:

• Overweight (BMI ≥ 27) with at least one weight-related concomitant disease, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes
• Obesity (BMI ≥ 30).

It should be used in combination with a calorie-reduced diet and regular physical activity.

Who is Saxenda suitable for?

Saxenda is intended for adults who are overweight or obese and who have not achieved sufficient weight loss with diet and exercise alone. It should be used as part of a comprehensive weight management program.

How does the Saxenda injection work?

The Saxenda injection contains liraglutide, which activates the GLP-1 receptors. This leads to increased insulin secretion, reduced glucagon production and delayed gastric emptying. As a result, the feeling of satiety lasts longer, calorie intake is reduced and weight loss is promoted. It also has an effect on the hunger and satiety center in the brain.

Dosage and application

Saxenda is available in a concentration of 6 mg/ml. Treatment starts with a dose of 0.6 mg per day, which can be gradually increased up to 3.0 mg per day, which is the maximum dose.

It is administered using an injection pen or a ready-to-use pen and is injected subcutaneously (under the skin) into the abdomen, thigh or upper arm. It should be administered at the same time every day, regardless of meals. To avoid skin irritation, the injection sites should be changed regularly.

Where can I buy Saxenda?

Saxenda is only available from pharmacies on medical prescription. Before starting treatment, a doctor’s consultation should take place to determine suitability and the correct dosage. Saxenda works best in combination with a healthy diet and sufficient exercise.

Prices for Saxenda

The cost of Saxenda varies depending on the dosage and pack size and is subject to legal regulations. At The Body Clinic, you can purchase a starter program with Saxenda from €345. This includes – if desired – free delivery of the drug, personal coaching and access to online fitness offers to support the best possible effectiveness.

What are the possible side effects?

The most common side effects of Saxenda are

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Headache
• Loss of appetite

These symptoms usually occur at the start of treatment and subside over time. Rare but serious side effects may include pancreatitis or allergic reactions. If severe abdominal pain or allergic symptoms occur, a doctor should be consulted immediately.

Safety and approval of Saxenda

Saxenda was approved by the European Commission for use in adults who are overweight or obese on the recommendation of the European Medicines Agency (EMA). This approval confirms that the drug works as described in the prescribing information and is safe. A healthy diet and regular exercise are crucial for successful treatment.

Interactions and contraindications

Before using Saxenda, patients should inform their doctor about any existing health problems and medications they are taking.
Saxenda can influence the effect of blood sugar-lowering medications. Regular blood glucose monitoring is required and, if necessary, the dosage of other medications should be adjusted.
Patients with a history of pancreatitis or severe gastrointestinal disease should consult their doctor before use. Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not recommended.

Differences between Saxenda and other medications

Saxenda vs. Ozempic

Saxenda and Ozempic are both GLP-1 receptor agonists, but Saxenda is injected daily, while Ozempic is only administered once a week. In addition, Saxenda is specifically approved for weight loss, while Ozempic was developed primarily for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Saxenda vs. Wegovy

Saxenda and Wegovy both contain GLP-1 receptor agonists, but Wegovy is used at a higher dose for weight loss and is only injected once a week, while Saxenda is administered daily.

Saxenda vs. Mounjaro

Saxenda and Mounjaro are both GLP-1 receptor agonists, but Mounjaro also activates the GIP receptor. Mounjaro is injected weekly and Saxenda daily. Mounjaro is also approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, while Saxenda is not.

Does the health insurance company reimburse Saxenda?

In Germany, statutory health insurance companies do not generally cover the costs of Saxenda, as it is currently classified as a lifestyle drug. However, reimbursement by health insurance companies depends heavily on the individual insurance policy and the medical indication. Patients should therefore contact their health insurance provider directly to find out about reimbursement options.

How can I cancel Saxenda?

Treatment should be discontinued in consultation with a doctor to avoid possible side effects. Saxenda can either be discontinued completely or gradually reduced to a maintenance dose. In this case, a slow dose adjustment is recommended.