The pharmaceutical industry, in its purpose of helping people with problems of obesity and overweight, has created drugs such as saxenda to try to restore the quality of their lives .
In the following article, we provide you with all the information you need to know about this medication and the circumstances in which it is used.
What is saxenda?
Saxenda is the brand name for a pen-type injectable medication, originally a drug treatment for people with uncontrolled blood sugar levels.
To highlight: In 2015 , the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (1) approved its use as a complement to therapies to lose body weight in adults over 12 years of age, with a Mass Index Body (IMC) equal to 30 or higher. (two)
The active substance in saxenda is liraglutide , a medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. This injection is usually given in the upper arm or upper stomach at any time of the day. The maximum daily dose of this medicine is 0.6 mg and can be gradually adjusted.
What is the saxenda used for?
Saxenda is indicated for the treatment of overweight and obesity, acting in the following ways:
1. Decreased appetite
We have already specified that this medication has liraglutide as its main compound, which in short, has an effect on the receptors in the brain that control appetite, generating a feeling of satiety and therefore loss of appetite. (3)
2. Control of body weight
In view of the above, liraglutide after 12 weeks of treatment should achieve a weight loss of at least 5% of the initial weight in patients, due to the decrease in the consumption of foods with a high caloric load, with a initial treatment of 3 mg.
To highlight: Studies indicate the effectiveness of liraglutide for weight control and obesity. (4)
Saxenda Side Effects
Using saxenda as a complement therapy for a weight loss regimen, especially in people with some underlying pathology, sensitivity or special condition , can generate some adverse effects, which we mention below:
- Headache.
- Changes in blood glucose levels.
- Diarrhea, constipation, heartburn.
- Runny nose, sneezing, cough, tiredness, pain or burning difficulty when urinating, rash and/or swelling at the injection site.
- Drug allergies.
Important: Stop using saxenda and see your doctor if you notice any of these reactions while using the medicine.
Contraindications of saxenda
In some patients, the use of this medication is contraindicated in any of the following conditions :
- Kidney or heart failure.
- Allergic reactions to some of the components of the saxenda.
- Medications that interact with saxenda or any of its components.
- If you are pregnant or if it is suspected.
- If you suffer from type 2 diabetes mellitus and are under treatment.
- If you suffer from any pathology in the pancreas, liver or gallbladder.
You should know: Before using this medication, you should review all your medical history with your specialist.
Key Findings
- Saxenda is a synthetic drug used for weight control and obesity.
- The active substance of saxenda is liraglutide, a compound that mimics the GLP 1 hormone, with an appetite suppressant effect.
- This drug also offers benefits for the control of diabetes mellitus.
- Its administration must necessarily be supervised by a doctor.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.