Saxenda
Medication features
- This product is a prescription-only medication and is not available for purchase by the general public. Always consult a doctor before use.
NOTE: After selecting this product, you will need to complete a short assessment, so we can make sure this medication is suitable for you.
Overview
Saxenda Australia
Saxenda is prescription-only medication available in Australia. It can only be prescribed by a registered Australian doctor who can review your suitability for treatment. If prescribed, a pharmacy can then dispense your treatment. Suitability assessment and treatment decisions including repeat prescriptions are at the discretion of the prescribing doctor.
If you are not eligible for any reason, your doctor will provide some additional medical advice and discuss alternative options. Advice, resources and support should be provided by a robust healthcare team for the best outcomes.
Its active ingredient is Liraglutide classified as a GLP-1 receptor agonist.
Saxenda Summary
| Dose | Inject as directed ONCE daily. |
| Type of medicine | GLP-1 Receptor Agonist |
| Form | Injection Pen |
| Active Ingredient | Liraglutide |
| Side Effects | Can include nausea, headaches, vomiting, diarrhoea or constipation. |
How long does Saxenda take to work?
Studies showed a majority of participants had at least 5-10% change in 16 weeks. The effect of the medicine takes time for noticeable results. Results can vary but are generally faster with reduced-calorie diets and exercise.
How to get Saxenda in Australia?
This product is not available for purchase by the general public. Saxenda is a prescription-only medication in Australia. It can be prescribed by any registered doctor to those who fit the prescribing criteria. Patients can consult a registered Australian doctor to determine what options are suitable for them.
How does Saxenda’s dosing work?
Saxenda dose is slowly brought up to the maintenance dose in order to prevent and minimise side effects. Over the course of 5 weeks, the dose may be increased slowly to a maintenance dose of 3.0mg once daily.
Once you reach the 3.0mg dose, keep using this dose until your treatment period ends as directed by a doctor.
| Week | Dose to Inject |
| Week 1 | 0.6mg once daily |
| Week 2 | 1.2mg once daily |
| Week 3 | 1.8mg once daily |
| Week 4 | 2.4mg once daily |
| Week 5+ | 3.0mg once daily |
How long does a Saxenda pen last?
This will depend on if you are at the 3.0mg per day maintenance dose. At the maintenance dose, each pen will last for 6 days if used correctly.
How do you use Saxenda?
Inject your dose of Saxenda under the skin using the subcutaneous injection needle in your abdomen, thigh or upper arm as instructed by your healthcare provider. The consumer medicines information contains further information on how to inject Saxenda.
The needle needs to be disposed of in a sharps container and replaced with a new needle before your next dose is administered.
What are Saxenda needles and where can I get them?
Saxenda pre-filled pens are designed to be used with 4mm, 6mm or 8mm Novofine needles. You can buy Novofine Saxenda needles from most community pharmacies.
How do I dispose of my Saxenda needles?
Always dispose of your needles safely in a sealable container, such as a yellow sharps container. Once this container is full, seal the lid and take it to a local pharmacy. Most will be able to place it in their sharps bin where they will be disposed of safely.
Side Effects
Saxenda Side Effects
Like all medicines, there is a chance for the medicine to cause side effects. Typically these are worst during the first 5 weeks as the dose is being increased to the maintenance dose. The most common side effects that are experienced are nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea or constipation and headaches. These side effects can vary and can change with continued use.
Other less common side effects can be a changed sense of taste, heartburn, flatulence, bloating, insomnia, faster heart rate, low blood sugar, indigestion and dizziness. If you experience any persistent side effects you find uncomfortable, it is recommended to see your doctor.
There are other rarer but potentially more severe potential side effects. For these read the consumer medicines information.
Warnings & Precautions
Saxenda should not be used by anyone who has experienced an allergic reaction to Liraglutide or any other listed ingredient. Allergic reactions can include rashes, shortness of breath and swelling of the face, lips, mouth and neck.
There are those for who the medicine may not be suitable. Doctors will identify who is suitable for treatment through a variety of specific health questions. It is important to provide the doctor with accurate information so they can ensure the treatment is right for you.
Info Leaflet
Before using any medicine, it is recommended to read the consumer medicine information leaflet.
