Navigating the journey to manage weight can often feel like finding your way through a maze, filled with challenges, uncertainties, and occasional setbacks. However, within this complex path, there exists a beacon of hope: Saxenda (Liraglutide). As one of the approved medications by Health Canada for weight loss, Saxenda stands out as a trusted ally in the pursuit of sustainable weight management. In a previous blog, we explored all approved weight loss medications in Canada ,and now, we’ll delve into the depths of Saxenda, exploring its mechanisms, benefits, and role in achieving lasting weight loss. From understanding how Saxenda works to addressing common concerns and misconceptions, let’s uncover the transformative potential of this medication and how it can pave the way for a healthier and happier New YOU!
1. What is Saxenda?
Saxenda, also known as Liraglutide, is a prescription health Canada-approved anti-obesity medication. Saxenda is specifically tailored to address the complex challenges of obesity, particularly in individuals who have failed th traditional weight loss methods such as diet and exercise. It serves as a beacon of hope for those who have experienced setbacks and frustrations on their weight loss journey, offering a new avenue for weight loss and effective weight management.
2. How Does Saxenda Work?
Saxenda operates as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. In simpler terms, it mimics the actions of our body’s own GLP-1 hormone, which is naturally produced by the gut and plays a vital role in regulating appetite and food intake. By stimulating GLP-1 receptors in the brain, Saxenda enhances the sensation of fullness over extended periods, helping individuals curb cravings and experience prolonged feelings of satiety. This mechanism effectively supports weight loss efforts by reducing the desire to overeat and promoting better control over food intake.
3. Who is a Good Candidate for Saxenda Treatment?
Saxenda is recommended for individuals struggling with obesity or overweight conditions, especially those with weight-related medical issues like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or hypertension. By targeting both weight and health concerns, Saxenda provides a holistic approach to improving overall well-being. In Canada, Saxenda® is indicated for adult patients with an initial body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or greater, or 27 kg/m2 or greater with at least one weight-related comorbidity, who have not had success with previous weight management interventions.
4. Who is not a Good Candidate for Saxenda?
While Saxenda holds promise for many, it may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or allergies to liraglutide. For example, individuals with a history of specific types of thyroid cancer, particularly medullary thyroid cancer, or a family history of this condition should not consider Saxenda. Additionally, conditions such as gallstones, pancreatitis, or certain colon conditions require careful consideration before initiating Saxenda treatment. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether Saxenda is the appropriate choice for you, as blindly using the medication because it has helped others is not advisable.
Delving into 12 Most FAQs about Saxenda:
1. What are the common side effects of Saxenda?
Common side effects of Saxenda may include nausea, vomiting constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and cramping. While these side effects may be bothersome, they are usually temporary and tend to diminish over time as the body adjusts to the medication.
2. What are the serious side effects of Saxenda?
While rare, Saxenda may pose a risk of forming gall stones leading to pancreatitis, a potentially serious condition characterized by inflammation of the pancreas. It is crucial to be vigilant and seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting while taking Saxenda.
3. Are Saxenda and Victoza the Same?
Saxenda and Victoza, both containing Liraglutide, are distinct medications approved by Health Canada. Saxenda is for weight management starting at 0.6 mg daily, increasing to 3 mg. Victoza treats type 2 diabetes, starting at 0.6 mg daily, potentially increasing to a maximum of 1.8 mg. Despite sharing liraglutide, they have different purposes and dosing regimens per Health Canada approvals.
4. How much weight can you expect to lose with Saxenda?
Clinical trials have shown that individuals taking Saxenda may experience significant weight loss, with an average reduction ranging from 5% to 10% of total body weight. However, individual results may vary depending on factors such as adherence to treatment, lifestyle changes, and underlying health conditions.
5. Which one is better: Liraglutide (Saxenda), Semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic), or Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zapbound)?
When comparing Liraglutide (Saxenda), Semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic), and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zapbound) for weight loss, it’s important to note their differences. While all three can help with weight management, Liraglutide is the only one approved for use in individuals between 12 and 17 years old. In studies, around 63.2% of people using Liraglutide lost at least 5% of their body weight, while for Semaglutide, it was 86.4%, and for Tirzepatide, it was 85%. So, if you’re considering weight loss options and are in the younger age group, Liraglutide may be the better choice.
6. What is the recommended age for using Saxenda?
Saxenda stands out as the sole GLP analogue injectable endorsed for individuals aged 12 and older, providing a viable treatment avenue for a wide spectrum of individuals grappling with weight management challenges.
7. Can individuals who have undergone gastric bypass surgery safely use Saxenda?
Saxenda can be safely used by individuals who have undergone gastric bypass surgery to aid in weight management and improve overall health outcomes.
8. Can I take Saxenda if I have gallstones?
While it’s understandable to be cautious, Saxenda can indeed be utilized by individuals with gallstones, provided it’s done under the careful guidance of a healthcare professional. However, it’s crucial to remain vigilant for any signs of worsening abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
9. Can I take Saxenda after gallbladder surgery?
Saxenda can be used after gallbladder surgery to support weight management efforts and promote overall well-being. However, it is essential to follow the advice of a healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective use of the medication.
10. Can I take Saxenda if I have thyroid cancer?
While individuals with a history of thyroid cancer, excluding medullary cancer, can generally use Saxenda, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider to evaluate the safety and suitability of Saxenda for their individual circumstances.
11. What should I eat when I’m on Saxenda?
Maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet is essential while taking Saxenda. Focus on consuming whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats while limiting processed foods, sugary snacks, and high-calorie beverages. Incorporating regular physical activity and adopting healthy lifestyle habits can further enhance the effectiveness of Saxenda in promoting weight loss and improving overall health outcomes.
12. Once Saxenda is stopped, is Weight Gain possible?
Weight regain is possible after discontinuing Saxenda. However, the degree of weight regain varies among individuals and is influenced by factors such as diet, physical activity, overall lifestyle, and mindset. It’s crucial to discuss any concerns about discontinuing Saxenda with your healthcare provider. Together, you can develop a personalized plan to help maintain weight loss and manage potential changes in weight. Emphasizing behavioral strategies to control hunger, such as those offered by Modest Medix’s Weight Management Program, can play a pivotal role in supporting long-term success by reshaping mindset and fostering sustainable lifestyle changes.
Modest Medix Weight Management Program: Your Partner for Sustainable Weight Loss
At Modest Medix, our team of physicians, registered dieticians, and health educators understand that effective weight management requires a holistic approach that goes beyond medication alone. Our program offers a comprehensive solution tailored to your individual needs, including genetics testing, customized meal plans, and exercise guidance for lifelong sustainability. With Saxenda and other obesity medications at the heart of our program, we empower you with the tools and encouragement needed to achieve your weight loss goals. Addressing common concerns and misconceptions, we aim to illuminate the transformative potential of Saxenda and help you take control of your health. Remember, you’re not on this journey alone; Modest Medix is committed to supporting and guiding you every step of the way.
