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Saxenda (generic: liraglutide) is derived from the diabetes medication Victoza.  Researchers found that patients who were on Victoza frequently lost a small amount of weight.  Eventually, studies were done utilizing Victoza at double the regular dose and its effect on weight loss, and results revealed that patients who were taking Saxenda lost more weight than those on a placebo, and the results were statistically significant.  This led to FDA approval of a 3mg dose of Victoza for weight loss, but under the name Saxenda.

Saxenda is injected from a pre-filled pen with a dial to adjust the dosage, similar to many diabetes medications.  The dosage is increased gradually over several days until 3mg is reached.  Generally the medication is well-tolerated, with the most common side effects being nausea and diarrhea.  Patients on Saxenda will be required to have monthly office visits to meet with a medical provider and a registered dietitian.

Saxenda works by interacting with GLP-1 receptors in your body.  GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide) is an appetite hormone that is naturally produced in humans that helps to regulate hunger.  Saxenda works like GLP-1 by regulating your appetite, which leads to decrease calorie consumption and therefore weight loss.

Saxenda, being a new medication, can cost upwards of $1000/month for patients without coverage, so it is important to explore your options.  Patients can go to Saxenda.com and click on the “coverage options” link to find out if their insurance covers the medication and what their copay would be.

It is always exciting to see new treatment options for weight loss coming to fruition, and JourneyLite Physicians is proud to be on the forefront of fighting the disease of obesity!