Weight Management with Saxenda:
Week 1
Starting a new medication can be daunting. Although you’re moving one step closer toward your weight loss goals, it’s common for side effects to arise from time to time. So, we’re here to help you learn what to expect in the first week of using the weight loss medication, Saxenda.
Your dosage for week one
You have likely been prescribed a starting dose of 0.6mg for the first week. This dosage allows the body to adjust to the medication gradually. Saxenda mimics a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) that helps regulate blood sugar levels and appetite. By activating GLP-1 receptors in the body, Saxenda can cause changes in blood sugar levels, gastric emptying, and other physiological processes.
Starting with a low dose helps reduce the risk of side effects and allows the body to acclimate to the medication before increasing the dosage. This improves the safety and effectiveness of Saxenda for weight loss.
Important things to know before starting Saxenda
How to use your Saxenda pen
How to inject your weight loss medication
How to adjust your medication dose
Common side effects of Saxenda
How to use your Saxenda pen
Let’s start with how to use your Saxenda pen.
The parts of the Saxenda pen are shown below. When you receive your medication, read the instructions included with your pen. These instructions provide detailed information on the correct storage and use of the pen.
© 2023 Novo Nordisk
There are a few simple steps to prepare the pen for use. In the beginning, it may seem like a lot to remember, but you’ll get the hang of it quickly. Follow the steps below to correctly prepare your pen for use, and remember to safely dispose of any needles once you’ve finished your dose.
© 2023 Novo Nordisk
How to inject your weight loss medication
Now it’s time to learn how to inject the medication.
Saxenda is an injectable medication that is self-administered once daily. Take your medicine at a time convenient for you, with or without food. Inject your dose under the skin in your stomach (abdomen) or upper leg (thigh) by gently pinching a fold of skin at the injection site. Avoid injecting into a vein or muscle, and be sure to safely dispose of the needles in a sharps container.
The video below demonstrates the correct way to use the injectable pen.
How to adjust your medication dose
Let’s talk about how to adjust your medication dosage each week.
As you move through your course of Saxenda, the dosage will increase. The correct way to increase the dose of Saxenda medication is to follow the prescribed dosage schedule provided in your treatment plan. Typically, you will start on a low dose of 0.6mg for the first week and increase the dosage by 0.6mg each week until you reach the maximum dose of 3mg.
The gradual increase in dosage helps reduce the risk of side effects and allows your body to adjust to the medication over time. If you experience any severe or intolerable side effects, you should remain on your current dose until the symptoms subside and contact your medical team before increasing your dose to ensure it is safe to do so.
Common side effects of Saxenda
Some of the most common side effects in the first week of taking Saxenda include nausea, constipation, diarrhoea, and headaches. To reduce the risk of these side effects, try to stay hydrated, eat a healthy diet, and avoid triggering foods or activities.
If you do experience side effects, there are several things you can do to manage your symptoms.
- For nausea: try eating small, frequent meals throughout the day and avoiding spicy or greasy food.
- For constipation: drink plenty of fluids and eat a fibre-rich diet.
- For diarrhoea: avoid trigger foods and stay hydrated.
- For headaches: take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
Managing a health condition and taking medications can be challenging. While side effects can be uncomfortable, they are usually a common part of starting a new medication. If you need advice on how best to manage your side effects or if side effects are severe, we are here to help. Simply reach out to your healthcare team via the ‘Contact your medical team’ link in your patient portal.
Getting the most out of your weight loss treatment
As you start your weight loss journey with Saxenda, focusing on your overall health and well-being is important. Make an effort to eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, enjoy regular exercise, and get enough sleep. It’s completely natural to focus on the numbers on the scale; however, your health and well-being are more important than any number.
By taking care of yourself physically and mentally, you can set yourself up for success in your weight loss journey with Saxenda. Remember to be kind to yourself and take it one day at a time. You’ve got this!
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Disclaimer: This is an educational resource exclusively for patients participating in the hub.health weight management program. It is designed to support medication knowledge and encourage sustainable behavioural changes to support your health and wellbeing. This material is not to be reproduced, transferred, or shared outside of the prescribed use within the program. Unauthorised use or distribution is strictly prohibited. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalised medical advice.