Liraglutide (Generic Saxenda)

Liraglutide is a prescription weight loss injection that contains liraglutide, an active ingredient designed to suppress appetite and enhance feelings of fullness. It works by mimicking glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that signals the brain when you are full. This effect helps individuals reduce food intake and lose weight sustainably. Liraglutide is approved for weight management in the UK and is most effective when combined with a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

Liraglutide acts like GLP-1, a hormone that is naturally released from the intestines after eating. It helps control hunger signals, making it easier to manage portion sizes and reduce overall calorie intake.

By influencing appetite, Liraglutide helps:

• Lower food cravings and hunger levels.
• Slow down digestion, leading to prolonged satiety.
• Support healthy eating habits and gradual weight loss.

Studies indicate that patients can lose at least 5% of their body weight within 12 weeks when following the prescribed dose escalation plan.

Liraglutide is a self-injected treatment available in a pre-filled pen. Your doctor will advise on gradual dose adjustments to ensure your body adapts properly.

How to Administer Liraglutide:

1. Prepare the injection by attaching a new needle and ensuring the solution is clear.
2. Perform a dose check before the first use of a new pen.
3. Set the correct dose using the dial.
4. Inject under the skin in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm, and hold for a few seconds before removing the needle.
5. Safely dispose of the needle and store the pen correctly.

Your doctor or pharmacist will provide full instructions on proper administration.

While Liragltuide is well tolerated by most, some users may experience side effects.

Common side effects (affecting up to 1 in 10 people):

• Feeling nauseous, bloated, or experiencing indigestion.
• Heartburn, stomach discomfort, or mild swelling at the injection site.
• Dizziness or fatigue.
• Changes in taste perception.

Less common side effects:

• Dehydration due to nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea.
• Gallstones or gallbladder inflammation.
• Elevated heart rate.

Rare side effects:

• Kidney complications or severe constipation leading to obstruction.

Most side effects resolve over time as the body adjusts, but if they persist or worsen, medical advice should be sought.

Liraglutide may not be suitable for all patients and should be used with caution in certain cases.

Avoid using Liraglutide if you:

• Have severe heart failure or kidney disease.
• Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to conceive.
• Are under 18 or over 75 years old (due to limited clinical data).
• Have stomach conditions like gastroparesis or inflammatory bowel disease.
• Require anaesthesia for surgery.

Drug Interactions:

Liraglutide can interact with other medications, such as:

• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) – May affect clotting.
• Diabetes treatments (e.g., glimepiride or insulin) – Can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia).

Always inform your doctor about any current medications before starting Liraglutide.